Pigmentation Disorders
Skin color is influenced by a person’s genetic heritage as well as environmental factors. It is determined by the amount of pigment or melanin that is produced in the skin. The cells manufacturing this pigment are called melanocytes. These cells are found throughout the upper layers of the skin. Natural pigment is nature’s way of protecting the skin from ultraviolet light. A suntan is actually sun damage and does not provide sun protection.
What Causes Pigmentation Disorders?
Uneven pigmentation of the skin may be a natural occurrence or related to ultraviolet light, infection, hormones, drugs, acne or topical chemicals applied to the skin. There are also skin diseases and genetic abnormalities that can cause hyperpigmentation. Common causes of hyperpigmentation include sunspots, freckles, “acne spots” and melasma (pregnancy mask).
What is Melasma?
What are Sunspots?
Treatments available:
Medications are a frequent cause of sudden skin pigmentation. Most of the pigmentation is seen in sun-exposed areas suggesting an interaction between ultraviolet light and the ingested medication.
Finally, post-inflammatory skin darkening is a common occurrence after irritation or injury to the skin. It is more prominent in dark-skin, however, it is also seen in lighter-skin individuals. After irritation or injury to the skin, the pigment cells (melanocytes) deposit pigment in both the upper and lower layers of the skin. This is a condition that usually clears with time, although it can last for months to years. Immediate treatment is important, as this will help determine the outcome and ultimate appearance of the area.
- Fractional Resurfacing
- Prescription Creams
- Skin Care Products
- HydrafacialMD
- Laser Gensis
- Excel V Laser
Schedule a Consultation
Viva Medical Aesthetics would like to learn more about helping you restore your skin to its natural beauty or treating a condition that has not been diagnosed. Call us at (250) 746-6512 or complete a contact form and our office will reach out to you. We look forward to hearing from you and providing you with excellent skin care treatment options!
