Skin Pigmentation
What is Skin Pigmentation?
Skin pigmentation refers to the color of your skin, which is determined by the amount of melanin your body produces. Pigmentation disorders can cause uneven skin tone or patches of lighter or darker skin.
When our bodies face a challenge (such as sun exposure or pregnancy), pigment-producing cells can go into overdrive, leaving dark patches on the skin. The most common types of pigmentation are sunspots (age spots), freckles, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (due to acne and scarring).
Before and After Dr Gemma's Pigmentation Protocol
Before and After Dr Gemma's Pigmentation Protocol
Before and After Dr Gemma's Pigmentation Protocol
Before and After Dr Gemma's Pigmentation Protocol
FAQs
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Sun exposure
The skin produces more melanin to protect itself from the sun's ultraviolet rays
This extra melanin causes a suntan
Uneven melanin production can cause patchy skin coloring
Genetics
Some people are more likely to have certain types of birthmarks or skin discoloration
Hormones
Hormonal changes during pregnancy, puberty, and menopause can affect melanin production
Estrogen and progesterone are two hormones that can cause hyperpigmentation
Medical conditions
Some medical conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid disease, and Addison's disease, can cause hyperpigmentation
Some medications, such as antibiotics and oral contraceptives, can cause hyperpigmentation
Some dermatological conditions, such as acne and atopic dermatitis, can cause hyperpigmentation
Other causes
Exposure to heavy metals, such as iron, arsenic, gold, and lead
Tobacco smoke
Skin injuries or inflammation
Stress
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Knowing the cause of hyperpigmentation means that we can tailor a treatment plan to your individual needs. Pigmentation treatment plans usually consist of a combination of skin peels, prescription creams, oral medication, skin care and specific sunscreens.
During your pigmentation consultation, Dr Gemma will prescribe a personalised treatment regime, including prescription pigmentation cream.
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Treating pigmentation takes time and consistency. Protecting your skin from the sun using hats and specific sunscreens is also very important in the treatment process.
Depending on the severity of pigment, and the treatment method chosen, you might see noticeable changes within a few weeks.
Optimal results usually take 3+ months to become visible. You must be patient during your treatment.
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Maintenance therapy is necessary. Even after initial treatment, ongoing sun protection and skin care, and occasional maintenance treatments are often needed to prevent pigmentation from returning.
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Pigmentation consultation costs $200. This fee is redeemable on treatment. The consultation involves determining the type of pigment you have, devising a treatment plan, and prescribing recommended starting at home skincare.
A skin peel is usually the first step in the treatment regime, and costs $400. This is usually followed by 3 months of compounded prescription pigment cream (which costs $250), and sometimes an oral medication. Ongoing at home skincare is required to maintain results.
Occasionally, for more stubborn pigmentation, the Skin Peel and Prescription cream may need to be repeated.
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Please book a ‘Pigmentation Consultation’ on the bookings page. You will then have your consultation with Dr Gemma and the steps required moving forward will be subsequently planned.