Pigmentation: the ABCs


PIGMENTATION REFERS TO CHANGES IN THE MELANIN (PIGMENT) OF YOUR SKIN.

THERE ARE MANY TYPES OF SKIN PIGMENTATION.

  1. A lentigo (plural lentigines) is a non-cancerous, pigmented spot with a clearly defined edge. Lentigines may evolve slowly over years, or appear suddenly. They may occur anywhere on the body and vary in colour from light brown to black. These spots are caused by UV sun-exposure and the degree depends on how much UV light these melanin pigments are exposed to. These must be monitored as they may develop into skin cancer and melanoma. Annual checks with your dermatologist or skin specialist is recommended. To prevent this condition, we recommend Uberzinc natural UV protector. If however, you already suffer these sun-spots, Synergie essential serums (Vitamin A, B and C) plus a skin lightening serum such as Enlighten may help lighten these spots. Unfortunately, once you have them though, you cannot fully remove them. Medical treatments such as IPL, Laser and AHA peels may also reduce the appearance of sunspots.
  2. The most common type of pigmentation is ephelides or freckles. These are flat circular light spots on the skin about the size of the head of a nail that develops after repeated exposure to sunlight, particularly in someone of fair complexion. They appear darker during the sunny months and fade in the winter. Heredity also influences freckling, as witnessed by the striking similarity in the total number of freckles on identical twins. Freckles benign but they may sometimes be confused with more serious skin problems.
  3. Melasma or Chloasma is pigmentation that is deeper in the skin dermis. It appears on the face as larger brown patches with a non-distinct border. This type of pigmentation mostly affects Asian and fair skinned people and is more common in women. Though causes are unknown, it is often linked to hormonal imbalances. The condition is made worse with UV exposure, overheating the blood, some medications, pregnancy and stress.

If you suffer any form of pigmentation it is advised that you consult a dermatologist who can correctly diagnose and recommended treatments for pigmentation. In terms of home care the following ingredients will help reduce pigmentation:

Protection really is the vital key to preventing sunspots and protecting your skin from harsh UVA and UVB rays. To prevent future pigmentation, use ÜberZinc for facial protection and ÜberZinc Body for other areas of the body, particularly hands, arms and neck. These products contain 21% zinc oxide – nature’s natural sun protector. ÜberZinc Body is also combined with Vitamin D3 to help replenish Vitamin D that may be lost from avoiding sun exposure.

Source: Synergie Skin