Pigment disorders indicate that melanin production is out of balance.
Dark beauty or bright northern lights? Our skin color is largely determined by pigments. Our own cells, the melanocytes, are responsible for the production of the skin pigment melanin. They are located in the basal layer of the epidermis. Regardless of whether we have dark or light skin, the number of melanin-producing cells is the same in all people. The difference lies in the amount of melanin produced: the more we produce, the darker the skin becomes. The arrangement also differs. Melanosomes, the cell organelles, i.e. the smallest cell factories of the melanocytes, are found as isolated clusters in light skin, while in dark skin they are more generously distributed and thus offer better sun protection. This is because the melanin absorbs some of the UV rays that cause sunburn.Prevention and treatment
So how do pigment disorders arise? The number one cause is and remains UV exposure from unprotected exposure to the sun. Tobacco consumption and an unbalanced diet also have a negative effect on the complexion. In addition to external influences and the intake of certain medications, internal factors such as hormonal fluctuations (e.g. pregnancy), genetic factors or illnesses can also affect the melanin balance.As a result, one or more hyperpigmented areas appear on the surface of the skin. As the sun stimulates the skin to tan, good sun protection is the most important preventative measure. If the spots are already there, bleaching creams can help. They usually contain the active ingredient rucinol, which is recommended by dermatologists, as well as vitamins A and C. Studies have shown that vitamin C can regulate melanin production. While gentle peelings, e.g. with enzymes from pineapple and papaya, are intended for use at home, fruit acid peelings, which have a more intense effect than bleaching cream, are better carried out by beauticians. Cosmeceutical or medical treatments are recommended, especially for stubborn spots. As the skin is very sensitive to light afterwards, the autumn and winter months are best for this.
pigment spot removal with IPL
Whether “pregnancy mask” or age spots: pigment disorders do not have to be permanent
Pigment disorders, such as so-called “age spots,” often make us look older than we actually are. An uneven skin texture due to pigmented sun damage disrupts the even complexion. Equally disturbing are the large pigment spots on the back of the hand, which allow conclusions to be drawn about our age.
How IPL treatment works
Treatment with IPL, Intense Pulsed Light, improves the appearance of vascular and pigmented lesions, including hyperpigmentation, melasma, port-wine stains and much more. During the treatment, pigment spots are exposed to high-energy, intense pulsed light. The intense pulsed light is absorbed by the melanin in the skin and converted into heat. The high temperatures destroy the unwanted color changes. A good result is usually visible after the first session. Since the light basically affects color changes, the IPL technique is not recommended on tanned skin. The autumn and winter months are therefore best for treatment.
