Pigmentation treatment in Singapore: Causes, Treatment options and Price

Melasma is a pigmentation disorder that affects about 45 million people globally. 

To better deal with melasma and other closely related skin pigmentation disorders, we have to understand them better. Let’s take a closer look at what causes skin pigmentation and  treatment options available in Singapore.

Types and causes of pigmentation

Types

Pigmentation refers to the colour of a person’s skin, hair, and eyes, which is determined by melanin, a type of pigment produced by cells called melanocytes. Colloquially, the term tends to refer to the abnormal colouration or discolouration of the skin. 

There are a few types of pigmentation disorders, most of them forming as a result of conditions that affect melanin production. The different types of pigmentation disorders are:

Hyperpigmentation: This is when parts of the skin turn darker compared to the surrounding areas. It is usually a harmless condition and can occur in many forms, such as:

Melasma: Often associated with hormonal changes and sun exposure, melasma results in brown to gray-brown patches that usually show up on the face.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): This can occur after a skin injury or inflammation, such as acne, eczema, or psoriasis. Fortunately, dark spots that arise from PIH tend to fade over time.

Solar lentigines (AKA “age spots” or “liver spots”): These small, dark patches are common in adults older than 50 years and can be caused by sun exposure.

Hypopigmentation: This condition occurs when parts of the skin become lighter than the surrounding areas. Some examples are:

Vitiligo: This is a long-term disorder where pale white patches start to develop on the skin. This is caused by a lack of melanin and usually affects areas exposed to the sun.

Albinism: This is a genetic condition characterised by a deficiency or absence of melanin, which leads to white skin and hair, as well as pinkish eyes in some cases.

Pityriasis alba: This is a common skin disorder observed in children and adolescents, characterised by the presence of well-circumscribed, scaly, white patches, mainly on the face.

Mixed pigmentation: This refers to a combination of hyperpigmented and hypopigmented areas on the skin.

Causes

Pigment disorders can be caused by a variety of reasons. Most people know at least a little bit about how sun exposure can increase their chances of hyperpigmentation, but it is not the only reason for pigment disorders. Causes of pigmentation disorders can be genetic, metabolic, nutritional, or due to other environmental factors.

Hormonal changes: Conditions like pregnancy and menopause, or the use of hormonal medications, can trigger changes in skin pigmentation. This is often the cause of conditions like melasma.

Skin inflammation: Any form of skin injury or inflammation can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This can result from conditions like acne, eczema, or psoriasis.

Ageing: The body’s natural ageing process can lead to changes in skin pigmentation, and can lead to the appearance of age spots.

Genetic factors: Certain pigmentation disorders are genetic, such as albinism and some cases of vitiligo.

Certain medications and chemicals: Some drugs, including certain antibiotics, antimalarials, and anti-seizure drugs, can cause hyperpigmentation. Certain chemicals can also cause skin discoloration.

Diseases and conditions: Diseases such as Addison’s disease, Hemochromatosis, or other systemic diseases can cause hyperpigmentation.

Nutritional deficiencies: Certain vitamin deficiencies, particularly vitamin B12, can also lead to hyperpigmentation.

Lifestyle factors affecting pigmentation

Several lifestyle factors can affect skin pigmentation by influencing melanin production and distribution.

Smoking: Tobacco smoke contains numerous toxins that can lead to premature skin ageing and changes in skin pigmentation. Smoking can cause the skin to become discoloured or yellowish, and it can also exacerbate conditions like melasma.

Diet: Nutrients, especially antioxidants, play a significant role in skin health. A diet deficient in these nutrients can lead to changes in skin pigmentation. Vitamin C, for example, helps in the normal development and function of melanocytes, so a deficiency could impact skin tone.

Stress: Chronic stress can influence various skin conditions, potentially including pigmentation disorders. While the relationship between stress and skin pigmentation is not fully researched, research suggests that cortisol may influence melanin production.

Alcohol consumption: Chronically heavy alcohol consumption affects the pigmentation as well. Alcohol’s inflammatory effects could potentially trigger or worsen conditions like melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Sun exposure: UV rays stimulate melanocytes, which are the cells that produce melanin. As a response to sun exposure, melanocytes work to produce more melanin. The result is a darkening of the skin — a process we know as tanning.

What is the best procedure to remove pigmentation?

Various professional pigmentation removal treatments have been developed for different pigmentation disorders. Some common pigmentation removal treatment options include:

Topical Treatments: These are usually the first line of treatment for most pigmentation disorders. They include prescription-strength lightening agents such as hydroquinone, retinoids, and other substances like azelaic acid, kojic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, and licorice extract.

Chemical Peels: This treatment uses a chemical solution to exfoliate the surface layer of the skin, which can help reduce hyperpigmentation. Depending on the severity of the pigmentation and the specific chemical used, peels can be light, medium, or deep.

Laser Therapy: Focused light energy is used to remove or fade pigmentation. There are various types of lasers, such as Q-switched lasers and fractional lasers, which work at different depths and can be used for different types of pigmentation.