Tips for Skin Brightening and Pigmentation Reduction!

Skin pigmentation is a common issue that plagues many women and men in India. In fact, in my dermatological practice, I see multiple patients daily suffering with this particular skin issue. I usually give each and every one specific counseling and guidelines to help guide them on how to treat and prevent this prevalent skin disease. Read below for my skin care tips to help prevent and treat dull and pigmented skin!

skin-brightening


PREVENTION IS KEY! Below are the most important rules to follow to prevent pigmentation, tanning and dull skin.

1 - Sun Avoidance:
The number one cause of pigmentation is the sun. UV rays from the sun stimulate melanocytes, the pigment producing cells of the skin, to create melanin, or dark pigment. Unfortunately, in India, the sun is very strong, resulting in dark marks that are difficult to get rid of. The most important advice I can give you is to try and avoid these damaging sunrays, particularly between the hours of 10AM-3PM when the sun is at its peak. Also, try to cover exposed areas, and wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for extra sun protection for your face.

2 - Sunblock: Unfortunately, it is impossible to avoid the sun entirely. Even when we think we are safe, UV rays can penetrate through windows and through cloudy skies, thereby still exposing us to their risks. To help protect against the sun, always wear a sunblock or sunscreen agent. This sunscreen should have at least SPF 30 to protect against UVB rays, thereby preventing tanning and sunburn. It should also have a ++ certification to protect against UVA rays, which cause pigmentation and skin aging. So, look for sunblock with SPF30 ++ for broadband sun protection against both UVA and UVB rays. And, remember to reapply every 3-4 hours for optimal results!

3 – Excess Product Usage
While it may be fun to try many different products on your skin at once, it is not healthy for your skin. In fact, significant dermatological data has shown that excess product usage can result in the sun interacting with one or more of your skin creams, causing undue pigmentation! So try to avoid trying many different creams and washes on your face in one day. If you want to start some new treatments, start only one or two at a time to see how your skin tolerates it.

YOUR TREATMENT OPTIONS! There are many treatments available to help fade those dark marks. However, it is important to recognize what will be safe and what can cause undue damage. Read below for some treatment options for your skin and how to avoid any possible side effects.

1 - Alpha-Hydroxy Acids Remember when your grandmother told you to put milk on your face to make your skin brighter? Well one of the most important tools against pigmentation that dermatologists use is Alpha-Hydroxy Acids, the most important being lactic acid and glycolic acid, which are derived from milk and sugarcane respectively. These super powered actives are both effective and safe, especially when lactic acid and glycolic acid are combined with Natural Moisturizing Factors. For daily use, use an Alpha-Hydroxy Acid based face wash to help brighten and prime your skin. Also, try and find a day lotion that has SPF 30++ and Alpha-Hydroxy Acids combined to help make your day easier. Finally, there are pigmentation masks available with 10% Alpha-Hydroxy Acids such as Lumifast Brightening Minute Mask by COSMEDIC, available at www.cosmedic.in. Use this mask 1-2 times a week for 5-10 minutes for an extra anti-pigmentation effect. This mask will also give your skin a quick glow if used a day or two before an event or a party!

2 – Hydroquinone Unfortunately, hydroquinone is frequently used for anti-pigmentation therapy in India. This dangerous ingredient has now been banned in the European Union, with America likely to follow. This agent has a high risk of side effects including, irritation, redness, itching, and surprisingly darkening. This paradoxical increase in pigmentation is called ochronosis, where the skin develops a blue-black hue where the ingredient was applied. Hydroquinone based formulations can be effective, however it requires strict monitoring with a dermatologist guiding your care.

3 – Alpha-Arbutin
Alpha-Arbutin is a highly effective agent that has the same mechanism of action as hydroquinone, without the side effects. However, remember to note that Alpha-Arbutin is the effective form of arbutin, as beta-arbutin or plain arbutin has 1/100th the effectiveness.  It is usually used as a spot treatment in combination with other ingredients such as Bio-Stabilized Vitamin C, Retinyl Palmitate and Alpha-Hydroxy Acids for optimal effect.

 Follow the above skin tips for brighter skin! For more information, feel free to contact Dr. Kiran Lohia and her skin care experts at expert@cosmedic.in

About Dr. Kiran Lohia, MD
dr.kiran-lohiaDr. Kiran Lohia is a US trained M.D, specializing in Dermatology. She is American Board Certified with a degree in Aesthetic Medicine, member of the American Medical Association, American College of Physicians, European Society of Cosmetic and Aesthetic Dermatology, International Academy of Cosmetic Dermatology among others. Having additionally completed a Diploma course in Cosmetic Science through the U.K. Society of Cosmetic Scientists, Dr. Lohia has the distinction of being the first physician with both advanced Dermatology and Cosmetic Chemistry knowledge. She is the founder of Cosmedic. Please see www.cosmedic.in for more details. Dr. Kiran Lohia also practices in Vasant Kunj by appointment. You can contact her team on 011-30152550 or mail to customerservice@futureskin.in

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10 comments:

  1. Disha3:12 PM

    aloe is known to have skin lighting/brighting properties, such as getting rid of acne spots sun spots. also,

    ReplyDelete
  2. Bhairavi3:13 PM

    apply orange pack or sandalwood pack

    ReplyDelete
  3. Farukh3:14 PM

    you are what you eat!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Geeta3:15 PM

    Boost Your Skin's Moisture Level

    Every day, twice a day, you should wash your face. In the morning before you start your day and at night, before bed.

    ReplyDelete
  5. H etal3:16 PM

    Use a Weekly Brightening Face Mask

    ReplyDelete
  6. Vedantha3:18 PM

    use safe skin brightening products that only contain natural, plant-based ingredients. High quality products like this won't damage your skin, won't cause irritation, they don't have any side effects.



    ReplyDelete
  7. Expert3:24 PM

    Different types of skin pigmentation problems can emerge as you get older.
    1. Use lactic acid
    2. Use licorice extract
    3. Take Vitamin C
    4. Apply almond oil
    5. Use an effective whitening moisturizer








    ReplyDelete
  8. Prema3:26 PM

    A mixture of heavy cream and lemon juice is another example of how to get rid of pigmentation. The lactic acid in the cream and the citric acid in the juice both work as skin lighteners and brighteners to reduce discoloration. All it takes is a few drops applied daily or twice daily to see results over time

    ReplyDelete
  9. Pranitha3:31 PM

    Making a paste of ground orange peels and water is another proven example of how to get rid of pigmentation. Simply apply as a mask once daily and see results over time.


    ReplyDelete
  10. The color in our skin and hair is because of melanin which is produced by the melanocytes. But it has been recently shown than the behavior of melanocytes can be modified by manipulating keratinocytes which do not have any pigment of their own.

    ReplyDelete

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