Pigment disorders, particularly hyperpigmentation, are common concerns I encounter during patient consultations.
When patients come in with skin issues, their first complaint often emphasises the need to explore and understand the underlying causes, which is crucial for an accurate diagnosis.
Identifying the cause of hyperpigmentation allows for a personalised treatment approach. Once we determine the correct course of action, patients can have realistic expectations regarding their outcomes, reducing frustration if the results are not perfect or take longer than anticipated.
Causes of Pigmentation: Congenital and Acquired
In general, pigmentation is usually caused by factors such as hormonal issues, skin types, drug responses, medical conditions, and, most importantly, ultraviolet (UV) or sun exposure.
These factors can affect your skin’s ability to remain pigment-free, and the severity may depend on the specific issues you are experiencing.
Common acquired pigmentation conditions that we encounter in our clinic include age spots, freckles, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
While you cannot control hormonal fluctuations, skin type, or genetics, you can make changes to reduce hyperpigmentation development that is related to drug exposure, medical conditions, and UV exposure. It is important to protect your skin from sun exposure, maintain a good skincare routine, and use sunscreen regularly.
Manage any health conditions and ensure that there are no negative interactions between medications you are taking that could worsen your pigmentation issues.
Stubborn Hyperpigmentation
Melasma is a persistent skin condition that often causes frustration for both doctors and patients. Treating this type of hyperpigmentation requires a variety of treatment protocols tailored to the individual, as patients may respond differently to various strategies. Doctors and patients need to collaborate closely in developing personalised treatment plans.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
As the name indicates, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurs as a result of skin injury. This can stem from a scar, an accident, surgery, or even laser treatments that lead to skin damage. Rather than improving the skin condition, such treatments can sometimes result in patients experiencing MORE and even DARKER pigmentation.
Asian skin tones are especially susceptible to PIH, as we have a higher concentration of melanin and more reactive melanocytes.
Listen to my podcast as I further discuss:
- Common types of hyperpigmentation in Singapore
- Non-invasive hyperpigmentation treatments
- Skincare and oral supplements
- Types of skincare products and skin clarity supplements
- Various types of lasers, including laser resurfacing, picosecond lasers, and RF microneedling with Erbium Glass Laser.
