You may not be Lady Macbeth, but her famous line “Out, damned spot!” might apply if you have pigmentation woes. Here are some key facts about the trickiest types to treat.
You may not be Lady Macbeth, but her famous line “Out, damned spot!” might apply if you have pigmentation woes. Here are some key facts about the trickiest types to treat.
1 One of the most challenging forms of pigmentation is melasma. This appears as patches around the middle of the face, the cheekbones and the jawline, and is caused by sun exposure, genes and hormones. It’s not known exactly how hormones influence melanin production, but it’s a fact that melasma is common during pregnancy, when it’s called chloasma or the “mask of pregnancy”.
2 Dermal pigmentation is equally tricky. It occurs in deeper layers of skin (the dermis, instead of the epidermis), and can therefore be harder to treat than typical epidermal pigmentation such as freckles. How to tell the difference? Dermal pigmentation usually has undefined outlines, and will never be lightened by topical products because they can’t penetrate deeply enough.
3 Sun exposure can cause pigmentation, worsen any that you already have, or cause it to recur. Reduce the risk by wearing suitable sun protection (SPF30/PA+++) when you’re out and about, and after treatments.
4 Melasma and dermal pigmentation can’t be cured, but they can be treated using technologies such as the latest Enlighten Gold Pico Laser. According to Dr KK Chew, founder of Nu.U Aesthetics & Wellness Clinic, this machine can reach deeper and break melanin into smaller fragments that the body can dispose of more easily, compared to conventional nano lasers. A microlens array add-on can be used to concentrate the laser for a more intense effect. What this means: You may need fewer sessions than if you were treated with another type of laser.
5 One positive effect of laser treatment can be smoother, firmer-looking skin. Laser treatment is essentially controlled damage to skin, which prompts skin to heal itself by producing more collagen. This can make pores appear smaller and more refined, and even reduce the look of wrinkles.
6 It’s not all about the machine: You need to work with a doctor you trust. Why? Treatment that isn’t well planned or executed can result in undesirable side effects such as post-treatment hyperpigmentation, where pigmentation in the treated areas comes back with a vengeance. Dr Chew avoids such issues through thorough consultation, plus expert analysis based on 30 years of experience in medicine, 15 of which are in aesthetic medicine. He’s a recognised speaker and expert in laser procedures, as well as many other aesthetic treatments.
Nu.U Aesthetics & Wellness Clinic is at #09-18/19 Paragon Medical Suites. Visit www.nuuclinic.com to find out more, or call 6732-9989 to make an appointment.
