Pigmented Skin
- Human skin color is primarily due to the presence of Pigment Cells (melanin) in the skin. Skin color ranges from almost black to white with a pinkish tinge due to blood vessels underneath.
- Pigmented skin can be oily, dry, normal or combination.
- Pigmentation can be classified into epidermal (superficial), dermal (deep), and mixed.
- Excessive skin pigmentation can be caused by UV exposure, hormones, skin trauma.
- The mode of treatment used will be determined by the type of pigmentation, patient preference, and patient risk tolerance.
- UV protection/sunscreen is paramount in the treatment of pigmentation.
- Different treatments are used for different types of skin pigmentation and skin types, like lasers and lightening creams.
- Tip – For cleansing use a mild cleanser containing lightening and brightening agents, do not use cleansers that are harsh on the skin as they tend to dry the facial skin.
- Tip – Use moisturisers containing glycolic acid with topical Vitamin C & E, and niacinamide containing creams.
- Tip – Skin lightening agents or cosmeceuticals containing kojic acid, licorice, hydroquinone can also be used but only under supervision of the physician.
