Pigmentation is a skin deficiency that causes changes to the skin’s colour. It has been a personal issue for most people around the world. Skin pigmentation can happen to everyone, most especially to those who do not take good care of their skin properly. It is quite difficult to avoid the sun’s harmful rays because even if you’re indoors, it can still damage your skin unless you are one of those people who apply sunscreen regularly.
Gladly, in today’s generation, there are medical remedies and procedures that can help people get rid of their stubborn pigmentation. Read ahead to get more information about these innovative treatments.
Effective Remedies To Eliminate Pigmentation
Getting rid of such skin discolourations requires a proper skincare routine with certain products. Sadly, eliminating pigmentation is a no easy task. But worry not as we help you find out proper treatment options for your pigmentation.
Green tea extract
Green tea extract is said to have a depigmenting effect when it is applied on the skin. This ingredient is available over-the-counter or in grocery stores, making it easy to obtain. Apply the green tea extracts directly on the affected skin area for a lightening effect.
Tomato paste
Tomato paste that is rich in lycopene can help protect the skin against short-term and long-term effects of sun damage. The ingredient is usually consumed with olive oil daily to give effective results after a few months.
Red onion
The red onion extract is surprisingly an ingredient in some commercial skin and scar lightening creams. Research studies have found that the red onion’s dried skin can effectively lighten the skin’s surface. Another term for this ingredient is Allium cepa. Look for creams that contain Allium cepa and apply it directly to the affected area.
Medical Procedures
Home remedies have been an easy solution for people who have light and tiny skin discolouration as they only require little efforts to be treated. But for some people who have severe skin pigmentation, these home remedies won’t be enough to get rid of the pigmentation. Luckily, there are invasive and non-invasive medical treatments that can help rejuvenate the skin.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a popular exfoliating treatment for eliminating skin pigmentation. The treatment can only be done by a medical professional as the procedure includes removing layers of the affected epidermis with a drill-like tool. The tool rapidly swipes across the skin and gently removes the affected epidermis little by little.
Microdermabrasion does not cause any damage to the skin tissues resulting in a minimal amount of recovery time. A number of sessions for microdermabrasion treatment may be needed to achieve the best results.
Lasers
Laser treatments are known for their impactful treating capabilities to reduce pigmentations such as freckles, wrinkles, acne scars, etc. The procedure is carried out by a medical professional who uses a device that delivers focused beams of light into the skin to break up the pigmented particles in the skin. Laser treatment can also be referred to as laser peeling and laser vaporisation.
Laser treatment has two kinds: ablative and non-ablative. Ablative laser treatments are more intense as it removes layers of the skin. This treatment has a stronger impact on the skin, which can lead to experiencing some side effects. But such side effects are only temporary. Non-ablative laser treatment has a calmer approach to the skin. It targets the dermis to stimulate collagen production. When there is enough collagen, it minimises the appearance of the pigmentation. Both ablative and non-ablative laser treatment methods destroy the unwanted elements in the skin to ensure that skin cells will grow back in a much better form.
Microneedling
Microneedling is a safe treatment that works best for any skin tones. A medical specialist uses a handheld needle-studded roller on the surface of the acne scar to reduce its depth. The needles puncture the skin, and as it heals, collagen starts to produce. Microneedling may take up to 9 months for visible results to appear.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are strong acids. But the strength of the acid may depend on how severe the acne scar the patient has. The treatment is often carried out during the autumn or winter season when the sun does not release too much harmful UV rays because chemical peels can make the skin extra sensitive, especially to the sun.
Chemical peels include using strong concentrated acids to treat the pigmented area. The medical professional applies the chemical solution to your skin to remove the outer layers and give your skin a smoother appearance. Some mild chemical peels can be used at home. But for deeper acne marks, it is best to have a specialist to deal with it.
Chemical peels may come with side effects such as redness and peeling that will subside after a few days. Visit your local derma clinic so they can advise you on what chemical peel will work best on your acne scar.