Skin discoloration, commonly referred to as “hyperpigmentation”, is a condition that results in uneven skin tone and complexion.
This is a skin condition brought on by an excess concentration of “melanin”, a skin pigment.
Skin discoloration is common in both men and women. However, certain ethnicities with lighter complexions tend to develop a more serious case.
The discoloration is usually not harmful, but in some cases may be a sign of an underlying disease or illness.
Many people that suffer from the symptoms of hyperpigmentation are concerned with the aesthetic implications of the condition. For some people this may even become a reason for anxiety and stress.
There are a number of medical spa treatments that can quickly and effectively treat hyperpigmentation and help you achieve spotless skin.
Causes of Skin Discoloration
There are a variety of causes for skin discoloration and hyperpigmentation. The primary reasons are:
- High concentrations of melanocytes, which are the melanin producing skin cells located in the epidermis.
- Overactive melanocytes.
Types of Skin Discoloration
Sun Damaged Skin
Prolonged and excessive exposure to sunlight will result in sun damaged skin. The damage tends to appear in the form of uneven pigmentation of the skin. The skin may also develop red spots due to dilated blood vessels.
Continued sun exposure will often lead to liver spots and freckles. Furthermore, the damage can begin to show in the connective tissues and can ultimately result in sagging, wrinkling, and loose skin.
That is why it is essential to use SPF sunscreen and limit your exposure to UV Rays. There are a number of highly effective pigmentation treatments available to cure the problem anywhere on the body.
Birthmarks
Pigmentation from birthmarks, freckles, and port wine stains occur naturally in the body. Common birthmarks fall into two categories.
These include brown pigmentation marks and vascular marks. Port-wine stains, hemangiomas, and salmon patches are all vascular marks.
Pigmented marks such as freckles and melasma are commonly caused by melanin at birth or hormonal shifts. Both of which can be effectively treated with a Limelight photofacial laser treatment.
Uneven Skin Tone
Uneven skin tones can have many causes but most commonly it’s a result of the overproduction of melanin. The hormone is typically responsible for skin and hair color, but also protects your skin from UV ray damage.
By producing melanin, your body is naturally able to protect the skin, but this eventually causes a patchy and uneven tone.
Hormonal changes and excessive sun exposure are the two common causes of melanin’s overproduction in the body.
Skin discoloration is very common and there are many types of laser treatments that will be able to reverse it efficiently and effectively.
The Most Effective Ways to Treat Skin Discoloration
Many believe that hyper-pigmentation is a permanent problem that can’t be treated. However, with skin spot and pigmentation treatments like IPL it’s possible to easily improve the appearance of the skin.
This non-surgical procedure has become a staple in skin discoloration treatments thanks to its affordability and the consistently incredible results.
The laser technology specifically targets the problem areas and patches of discolored skin without any discomfort.
Other pigmentation treatments like Vibraderm Microdermabrasion will treat multiple skin issues such as fine lines and wrinkles. This is another appealing option that effectively removes and minimizes discoloration without any side effects, pain or downtime.
Some laser skin treatments can cause burns while also requiring more downtime and potential medication for recovery. With limelight photofacials the pulses of light are specifically delivered to problem areas. This also makes it an excellent option for people with sensitive skin.
A Limelight Photofacials treatment is a great way to treat numerous skin concerns.
How does IPL Work for Skin Discoloration
IPL is an effective non-surgical and non-ablative skin treatment. It works great for reducing age spots, pigmentation and facial redness.
Patients have experienced incredible results on their hands, face, legs, chest, and other body parts.
What does a LimeLight Photofacial Treatment Entail?
This laser treatment doesn’t require topical anesthetic, creams, and gels to improve your skin tone. However a soothing gel is often recommended to cool the skin before the treatment.
The treatment is virtually pain-free with patients only reporting a mild pinching sensation at the onset. It’s also relatively quick and depending on the treatment area can be completed in 15 minutes.
Results can be achieved after just a single treatment however it’s often recommended to get 3-6 sessions.
Do LimeLight PhotoFacials work on different skin types?
Limelight Photofacials are safe, effective, and suitable for most skin types.
An IPL treatment like LimeLight Photofacials can help the following skin concerns in just a few treatments:
- Age spots and dark spots
- Pigments (Hyperpigmentation and Melasma)
- Radiant / brighter complexion
- Sun damage
- Uneven skin tone
- Dull and wrinkled skin
LimeLight Photofacial Process for Discoloration
This cutting-edge technology uses a medical laser to deliver highly targeted pulses of light to the damaged areas of skin.
At the same time, the laser energy stimulates the dermis and boosts both elastin and collagen production. The procedure is able to dramatically improve skin tone and makes it appear uniform and healthier while significantly diminishing discoloration.
One of the main benefits of IPL is that there are no side effects or risks of scarring or bruising. However, this depends on a client-by-client basis and on the staff member doing the procedure.
Conclusion
In 2021 IPL is the go-to treatment for diminishing, removing, and reducing discoloration and hyperpigmentation. It’s a great way to improve your skin tone, remove skin spots and even acne scarring.
If you’re dealing with skin discoloration you should book a laser consultation with an experienced skincare professional.
This way you can be sure that you’re choosing the best treatment for you and your skin concerns.