Pigment Problems
In the deeper layers of the skin called the epidermis, melanocyte cells create melanin, a compound responsible for the color in our skin. Melanin is very useful to us by helping to absorb harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun. For instance, a “tan” is more than just a way to look good. It is actually the body’s method of protecting itself. The more exposure we have to dangerous UV rays, the darker our skin becomes.

Sometimes issues occur with melanin that cause variations in pigment coloring. These include sunspots, in which melanocytes overproduce, or melasma, in which darker areas patchwork the face. Melasma causes darker splotches on the cheeks, around the mouth, and on the forehead. With post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, the skin responds to injury by changing color to a darker shade. This is common with burns, rashes, trauma and acne.

Our med spa in Refresh MedSpa & Aesthetics offers a variety of unique treatments that can greatly reduce discoloring of the skin and restore self-confidence and quality of life. Some examples are intense pulsed light (IPL), laser resurfacing, and chemical peels. These procedures are highly effective in addressing all kinds of skin pigmentation concerns, including freckles, age spots, rosacea, sun damage and hyperpigmentation.

Although it may take several sessions to accomplish, laser energy helps the pigment in skin cells to disperse and break down. Laser therapy also has the positive side effect of improving skin tone and tightness, and giving the complexion an overall youthful glow. Best of all, laser treatments are non-invasive and do not require downtime.

Of course protecting the skin from sun damage begins at home through the practice of wearing sunblock and protective clothing. EltaMD, IS Clinical, Revision Intellishade and Skin Medica are all superior broad-spectrum sunblock agents that we recommend.

“Art can never exist without naked beauty displayed.”