PIGMENTATION
Pigmentation is a reality for many of us, despite our best efforts.
People who suffer from pigmentation or ‘dyschromia’ are best to use a tyrosinase inhibitor or pigment blocker as part of their daily skincare routine. Pigment blockers are useful to help prevent future production of pigment by inhibiting melanin. This product is applied topically in the morning after you have cleansed the skin. Apply before moisturiser and sunscreen
At Skindepth Perth we have a highly effective pigment IPL (intense pulsed light) that we use to treat pigmentation during winter. Through the summer months when the UVA/B index is high, a tyrosinase inhibitor is an essential daily skincare product.
A pigment blocker may also be used to help prepare the skin for a treatment where there is a risk of hyperpigmentation. Treatments include laser, peels, micro-needling, and diathermy (to name a few). This sensitivity can lead to dark patches on a treated area. Generally darker skin types are at a higher risk of hyperpigmentation and these risks need to be taken into consideration when considering invasive dermal treatments.
What are tyrosinase inhibitors?
Tyrosinase is an enzyme which activates melanin production. Melanin is the colour in our skin, known as chromophore. These products are called tyrosinase inhibitors because they inhibit melanin production. Some common and effect tyrosinase inhibitors are.
Kojic acid
Hydroquinone
Arbutin
Liquorice root extract
Niacinamide
Oligopeptide-34
Ascorbic acid
Rumex occidentalis extract
At Skindepth Perth our 2 favourite Tyrosinase inhibitors are Dermaceutic C25 cream and Dr Rudd’s personal favourite Dermaceutic Mela Cream. Both can be purchased at Skindepth Perth
What is the melanin pigment?
Melanin is a complex pigment that gives colour to hair, skin, and eyes. There are two types of melanin: eumelanin (dark colours like brown and black) and pheomelanin (light colours like red and yellow).
Melanocytes found deep in the dermis layer of the skin is where melanin production comes from. These cells can be found all over the body and are responsible for producing melanosomes. These melanosomes are sites of synthesis for both eumelanin and pheomelanin pigment.
Genetics is the primary factor of melanin, however exposure to UV light, inflammation, hormones, age, and skin pigment disorders can all affect pigment production
What does melanin do in the body?
Pigmentation isn't just for show; melanin provides protection against damage from the sun.
This important pigment helps to absorb UV light, keeping it from damaging the sensitive DNA in skin cells.
In addition, melanin scavenges for reactive oxygen molecules (free radicals) produced by UV light damage, making it an important antioxidant.
How can I help my pigmentation?
Pigmentation is a suborn condition that needs continual care and attention. Rarely does it go away entirely, and continual treatments and creams are needed to keep it at bay.
It is important to talk to a medical professional at Skindepth Perth about your potential risks and side effects when it comes to pigmentation. We can provide you with a complete and holistic skin care plan that will get you the results you want, no matter what your skin type.