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The Challenges of Hyperpigmentation for Skin of Colour

The Challenges of Hyperpigmentation for Skin of Colour

25 July, 2023

hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is arguably the most challenging skin condition for practitioners to deal with.

Many reputable doctors steer away from the issue as it is so complex and delivering the wrong treatment could be counter-productive.

Yet hyperpigmentation is a very common concern and even more so in clients whose darker skin tones make them more susceptible to the condition. Clients with skin of colour can also find that the pigmented areas are more noticeable due to the density of pigmentation.

Hyperpigmentation is usually caused by overproduction of melanin by the pigment cells (melanocytes). This could be triggered by hormonal changes (e.g. pregnancy), certain medications and sun exposure. It can also be a post-inflammatory reaction to acne, psoriasis or previous skin treatments.

In clients with skin of colour, sun exposure is the most common issue as the higher levels of pigment in the skin mean that localised overproduction of melanin causes darker patches to appear.

Hyperpigmentation Assessment

The first step is to properly understand the nature of the problem.

At Clinicbe Skin of Colour, consultations include assessment of relevant medical history and a detailed examination of the skin.

Visia Skin Assessment

In addition, Clinicbe Skin of Colour have a Visia 3D Skin imaging system which can be used to reveal unseen detail on issues such as sun damage, skin tone variation, UV spots – as well as pore size and wrinkles.

This helps to determine the best approach for treatment.

Treatment of Hyperpigmentation

The good news is that Aesthetic Physicians such as Dr Barbara Kubicka, Founder of Clinicbe Skin of Colour, are now choosing to specialise in treatment of hyperpigmentation for clients with darker skin tones including black, Asian or mixed-parentage skin types.

Patchy areas of darker pigmentation and uneven skin tone can now be treated with a range of options including in-clinic treatments and at-home skin care regimes that can significantly reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

Pigmentation Treatment Options

at Clinicbe Skin of Colour

Many patients think that nothing can be done about their pigmentation, but at Clinicbe Skin of Colour, Dr Kubicka offers a number of options, which have been carefully chosen and considered with the needs of skin of colour patients in mind. Options include:

Topical Treatments – Skin Care Regimes

  • Universkin – skincare so fresh it needs to be kept in the fridge
  • MELINE – at home skin regime accompanied by a series of professional peels in clinic
  • Obagi – top brand dermatological skincare

High-Tech Treatments

  • Doublo HIFU uses ultrasound to promote skin regeneration, improving hyperpigmentation and bringing through a more even skin tone

Exfoliation & Masks

  • Microdermabrasion – mechanical exfoliation
  • Dermamelan – professional treatment mask which works to reduce pigment production within the skin
  • Cosmelan – exfoliation and depigmentation treatment
  • Meline – professional peels in clinic with at-home skincare regime

Injections and Supplements

  • Mesotherapy – tiny injections used to stimulate the skin and work on reducing pigmentation
  • Glutathione – antioxidant can effectively revitalize skin cells and reduce pigmentation
  • Supplements – nutritional benefit to help skin from the inside out

Sun Protection

Going forward, prevention is the best policy to avoid hyperpigmentation recurring. Treatment can be very effective, but patients are then advised to
take extreme care with sun protection to maintain the best results. This means daily use of SPF50 sunscreen every day of the year. It is also sensible to avoid the sun where possible and wear a hat/sunglasses when outdoors as well as a good sun cream.

Clinicbe Skin of Colour

Clinicbe Skin of Colour offers a range of services for clients with skin of colour, including skin treatments, acne and hair loss. Pigmentation problems are a particular specialism for Dr Barbara Kubicka.

The clinic is based in Knightsbridge, London – easily accessible from Chelsea, Belgravia, Mayfair and Kensington.

To learn more or book an appointment, please contact our team: