Skin Pigmentation Treatment
Pigmentation (spot) treatment is performed today with different methods. Skin spots are a common problem. Some fade on their own, but others require medical help. The skin contains a pigment called melanin that gives it color; more melanin means a darker color. This pigment also gives color to the hair and eyes.
A skin spot is easily noticed because it differs from the natural skin tone. Spots can be of very different colors, the most common being red, gray and blue. Different colors can mean different things, so when performing spot treatment it is essential to analyze the spot color and other factors beforehand.
Why Do Skin Spots Occur?
The causes of skin spots vary from person to person:
- Skin cancer,
- Medical conditions,
- Birthmarks,
- Skin rashes,
- Skin infections,
- Pigmentation disorders.
How Is a Skin Spot Diagnosed?
To diagnose a skin spot the doctor asks the patient some questions:
- What symptoms occurred after the spot,
- Pre-existing medical conditions,
- Whether the spots have changed since they first appeared,
- When the spots appeared.
The doctor may examine the spot with dermoscopy. A skin biopsy may also be requested, in which a piece of skin is taken and examined in pathology.
How Are Skin Spots Treated?
To treat skin spots, the cause must first be determined. If there is an underlying health condition, the doctor will address it first. The cause may be skin cancer, in which case treatment must begin as soon as possible; or it may be a birthmark or uneven skin tone. A person may also want spot treatment for cosmetic reasons. The most common options include:
- Topical creams,
- Laser treatment,
- Chemical peels,
- Injection methods.
How to Prevent Sun Spots
- Avoid uncontrolled tanning while sunbathing or in a solarium.
- Use sunscreen summer and winter, with a protection factor of at least 30, reapplied every 2-3 hours in summer.
- Always protect the skin after waxing, skin care, peeling and laser hair removal.
- Do not use perfume, cologne, alcohol-based tonic, wet wipes or hair-bleaching cream before sun exposure.
- Avoid the solarium, which increases the risk of spots and skin cancer.
- Protect against the sun especially during pregnancy, when spots appear more often due to hormones.
- Choose conscious treatment methods for acne marks.
What Is Laser Spot Treatment?
Laser spot treatment works by peeling the skin or breaking down melanin. It is effective, and different laser types can be used, the most common being the fractional laser. The area must not be tanned, because tanned skin absorbs more laser and can become irritated or blistered. It is not performed after sunbathing or solarium and is best done when the sun effect is low. The price varies by area, its condition and the patient needs.
Spot Treatment with Lightening Creams
Lightening creams prevent melanin production, so spots begin to fade. Always consult your doctor before starting any cream; choosing one on your own is risky. Use it only as your doctor directs after an examination, because unsuitable products can cause serious harm. Avoid applications not recommended by doctors, as they can cause chemical peeling and lead to more spots instead of fading them.
Spot Treatment with PRP
PRP spot treatment is prepared from the patient own blood, using the platelets carried in the circulation, then applied by micro-injection. With growth factors the platelets renew the skin, producing a brightening and revitalization.
Spot Treatment with Mesotherapy
Mesotherapy works by injection under the skin with fine needles. Various techniques prevent the spot from recurring and strengthen the skin. It is a common, completely safe technique for all ages. Special products must be used regularly; mixtures with hyaluronic acid, tranexamic acid and vitamin C are very beneficial. Following the doctor recommendations is essential for success.
What Should Be Known About Spot Treatment?
- Often a single method is not enough; methods are combined, usually with antioxidant supplements.
- Before treatment the doctor investigates the cause and prepares a plan.
- If there is itching, redness or burning, these are treated first.
- Although treatment works, recurrence is likely because spots resemble chronic conditions.
- The method varies per person; skin structure, spot features and cause are analyzed first.
- The most used methods are PRP, mesotherapy and laser.
When Should Spot Treatment Be Done?
The ideal time is the winter months; it is not recommended in summer. Treating spots early matters, because the newer a spot is, the faster it responds. A spot can recur at any time, so avoid triggering situations. The best approach is to prevent spots from forming and protect the skin from sun rays and wrong cosmetics. Preventing spots before they form is the best method.