Most of us will be appreciating the warm and sunny start to the season, but it is not always so kind for our skin. While the summer means less exposure to drying cold air and central heating, the sun can cause pigmentation. These are patches of uneven tone, dark spots, or freckles that can be more noticeable over the age of 30.
At our skin rejuvenation clinic in Brighton, we offer a range of treatments for sun-related pigmentation. Here’s a closer look at what it is, and how to tackle it.
What is pigmentation?
Pigmentation refers to the colouring of the skin, and is controlled by melanin. This is a natural pigment produced by cells called melanocytes, which gives the skin its natural colour. However, certain triggers (including sun exposure) can cause the cells to produce too much melanin, resulting in patchy discolouration and freckles or sun spots.
UV rays trigger the production of melanin as a natural defence mechanism from the damaging effects of the sun. If the skin is not adequately protected with suncream, or the sun is particularly constant and intense (such as during the core of the day and in hot climates), melanin production can increase, resulting in dark spots and patchiness.
Pigmentation can also be caused by hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy or menopause, inflammation, rashes, or certain skin conditions such as psoriasis, contact dermatitis, acne and rosacea.
What can you do about pigmentation?
Pigmentation is not a medically serious problem (although occasionally it may be the sign of a more serious underlying condition, so if you have any concerns, consult your doctor). However, it often shows up on the most visible areas of the body, including the face, décolletage, and hands, which can cause self-consciousness and knock confidence.
The good news is that pigmentation can be treated. To minimise your chances of being affected, always apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or 60 to exposed areas of skin before going outside, even on a cloudy day. Reapply it every two hours, or after being in the water, and in very strong sunlight wear a wide-brimmed hat and shades.
IPL photorejuvenation
IPL (intense pulsed light) treatment, sometimes referred to as a photofacial, is one of the most popular treatments for sun damage, and it can also address other concerns such as red spider veins and rosacea. It uses controlled wavelengths of laser light to break down pigmentation without harming the surrounding areas of skin.
The treatment also has the added bonus of boosting collagen production for an overall improvement in the smoothness and elasticity of the skin.
Chemical peels
Chemical peels are designed to gently exfoliate away damaged skin cells and stimulate the growth of new ones. This helps to even out patchy skin tones and lessen the appearance of dark spots or freckles. It’s also effective for smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles and softening acne scars.
If you are unsure about which treatment might be the most suitable for you, call into our skin clinic for a consultation and we’ll be happy to offer some professional advice.