Pigmentation is a concern for a huge number of my clients. It really is no surprise we have such a high demand for skin treatments to lighten pigmentation and to brighten the skin, since living in Australia poses some real challenges to skin, especially for those with a European background.
What causes pigmentation?
Pigmentation forms when the skin is exposed to UV light. The UV rays from the sun can cause extensive damage even after a few minutes exposure a day. The sun (as beautiful as it is) is your no 1 enemy when it comes to skin ageing. Just compare the skin of your friends who sunbaked to those who didn’t. Or compare the skin on your rear end to the rest of your body 😉 Other factors involved include hormonal changes, a genetic predisposition to pigmentation and photosensitivity to UV rays.
The skin produces melanin to darken the skin and thickens the surface of the skin’s uppermost layer, the epidermis as a way of protecting it from further UV damage. When there is too much sun exposure, your melanocytes (pigment cells) produce excess melanin and can appear as freckles or unsightly stains on the skin.
For a more even toned, smoother and brighter skin what can be done?
– wear a maximum protection sunscreen every day – I have so many clients saying to me that they don’t feel they need to use a sunscreen as they work in an office all day – but what about walking to your bus stop, sitting outside at lunch time, driving to work … 10-15 minutes in the sun every day can equate to 1-2 hours of sun exposure every week and believe me, it DOES make a difference.
– incorporate quality products into your homecare routine that will refine and smooth the skin, slow down the melanin production and brighten the skin. Some of the most effective ingredients currently available include AHAs, vitamin A and vitamin C. A product that contains tyrosinaise inhibiting ingredients are a must to control pigmentation.
– Regular professional treatments will work in tandem with a good homecare routine so that you’ll be able to achieve greater results in lightening your pigmentation – we have many options which can be customised to your particular skin type and needs.
