Pigmentation
What is skin pigmentation?
Pigmentation refers to skin colouration due to abnormal melanin production by melanocyte cells.
Everyone has similar melanocyte counts, but melanin production varies, causing different skin tones.
Factors like sun exposure, hormones, and genetics can cause skin pigmentation alterations, leading to conditions like hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation.
At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we specialise in addressing skin pigmentation concerns, offering personalised solutions based on individual needs.
Learn about the types of pigmentation and the range of pigmentation treatments we provide to help patients regain skin confidence. You can also contact us to book your consultation today.
Learn about / We treat
Types of Pigmentation Conditions
At Dr. Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we specialise in diagnosing and treating various pigmentation disorders, tailoring each solution to our patient’s individual skin concerns.
As experts in skin science and aesthetic medicine, we empower our patients with a range of treatments and guidance, addressing conditions like hyperpigmentation, melasma and sun damage, resulting in revitalised and even-toned skin.
Our deep understanding of pigmentation, combined with our commitment to cutting-edge therapeutic techniques, ensures that we effectively treat pigmentation concerns, uplifting our patients’ self-confidence and restoring their skin’s radiant health.
Learn more about the types of pigmentation conditions we treat below and contact us to book your consultation.
Hyperpigmentation (dark patches)
Hyperpigmentation results from excessive melanin production, creating darker skin patches. Causes include sun damage, acne scars, and hormonal changes. Treatment aims to even skin tone, enhancing aesthetic appeal, boosting self-confidence, and promoting skin health.
Melasma
Melasma presents as dark brown or grey skin patches on the face or body , often linked to hormonal changes (usually during pregnancy) or sun exposure. Addressing melasma helps rejuvenate the skin’s appearance, fostering self-confidence and overall skin vitality.
Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
A response to trauma or inflammation, PIH manifests as dark patches or spots. Commonly stemming from acne, burns, or aggressive skin treatments, its management prioritises even-toned restoration, ensuring holistic skin health and boosted confidence.
Sun-damage
Sun-damage results from prolonged UV exposure, leading to imperfections like sunspots. As age advances, such damage becomes prominent, affecting skin aesthetics. Addressing sun damage rejuvenates skin health, enhancing appearance.
We provide the following
Types of pigmentation treatments
At Dr. Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we’re specialists in advanced pigmentation treatments and skin rejuvenation methods, tailoring each approach to our patients’ unique skin needs.
We utilise our expertise in aesthetic medicine to guide our patients towards achieving their skin goals with a suite of treatments, including Cosmelan/Dermamelan, 3D Bespoke Treatments, Vampire Facial Treatments, 3D Skin Needling, Mesotherapy, Lumecca IPL, and Chemical Peels, delivering outcomes that bring out your natural beauty.
Our team’s experience in addressing pigmentation and our commitment to the latest therapeutic advancements guarantees effective management of diverse skin concerns, promoting our patients’ self-confidence and enhancing their overall skin health.
Learn more about the types of pigmentation treatments we provide and contact us to start your journey to depigmentation.
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Frequently asked questions about pigmentation conditions & treatments
What causes pigmentation?
Pigmentation is caused by an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin and hair colour. Various triggers include sun exposure, hormonal imbalances, age, skin injuries or inflammation, reactions to medications, and certain medical conditions.
What are the causes of skin pigmentation?
Skin pigmentation disorders can be caused by a variety of factors. Pigment cells may be influenced by sun-exposed areas, cosmetic procedures, underlying skin conditions, and even genetic predisposition. Excessive sun exposure can be a significant factor contributing to pigmentation disorders.
At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we aim to determine the root causes of your pigmentation concerns using our state-of-the-art VISIA Skin Analysis. Understanding the cause helps us provide you with the most effective treatment options. Schedule your consultation with one of our specialists today.
What causes pigmentation on the face?
Pigmentation on the face can result from various factors. Sun exposure is the most common cause, leading to sun spots or age spots. Hormonal changes, especially in women (particularly during pregnancy), can cause melasma. Other factors include inflammation, skin injuries, acne, certain medications, and genetics.
How to treat pigmentation
At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we offer a comprehensive approach to combat pigmentation. Leveraging treatments such as the Glow Getter Facial, Lumecca IPL, chemical peels, and Cosmelan/Dermamelan (to name a few) combined with our state-of-the-art VISIA Skin Analysis, we precisely identify and address the root cause of your pigmentation concerns. Each treatment plan is uniquely tailored to deliver optimal, individualised outcomes for a radiant and even complexion.
How to treat hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation can be treated through various methods including chemical peels, Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy, laser treatments, and targeted skincare products that contain ingredients like hydroquinone, retinoids, or vitamin C. These treatments aim to brighten dark patches, reduce hyperpigmentation, and bring about a more even skin tone.
At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we specialise in offering treatments such as Lumecca IPL, Cosmelan, and MELINE Chemical Peel, among others, tailored to treat hyperpigmentation effectively. For a precise diagnosis and customised treatment plan, we invite you to book a consultation with one of our skincare specialists.
How do I choose the right treatment for hyperpigmentation?
Always start with a professional consultation with qualified and experienced specialists for an in-depth analysis of your facial features and to reach a good understanding of your skincare concerns and goals.
Our unique and comprehensive aesthetic couture consultation is available for you to discuss and analyse your concerns and goals and for our team of specialists to provide bespoke advice. This process will help us to determine the type of pigmentation you are concerned with, allowing us to compile a relevant depigmentation skincare treatment plan. Schedule your aesthetic couture consultation today!
What is the difference between pigmentation and hyperpigmentation?
Pigmentation refers to the coloring of the skin, hair, and eyes due to melanin, whereas hyperpigmentation refers to excess melanin has caused dark spots or darkened patches on the skin.
At Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates, we can help you identify concerns and tailored the ideal treatment plan to help you manage pigmentation issues. By using VISIA Skin Analysis, we can precisely diagnose the type of pigmentation you have, providing you with a customised treatment plan that fits your specific needs. Book a personalised consultation today to learn more.
How to treat melasma
Melasma is often triggered by hormonal changes and exacerbated by harmful UV rays. Treatment usually involves a combination of topical treatments and procedures like chemical peels or laser treatments that shield the skin from the sun and break down sun spots.
Our team at Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates is experienced in treating melasma. Using targeted therapies like Cosmelan/Dermamelan and MELINE Chemical Peels, we aim to provide effective treatment options tailored to your unique needs. Schedule a consultation to find out which treatment is best for you.
How to treat post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) occurs after an inflammatory skin condition subsides and leaves darkened patches on the surrounding skin. Treatment options include topical treatments like retinoids or vitamin C, and procedures such as chemical peels or laser treatments.
Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates offers specialised treatments like Lumecca IPL and I-PEEL-L Bespoke designed to address PIH effectively. Our skincare specialists will work with you to create a tailored treatment plan that aligns with your specific skin condition. Book a consultation to start your tailored treatment journey.
How to prevent hyperpigmentation
Preventing hyperpigmentation involves reducing skin discolouration triggers. Frequent sun protection, avoiding excessive sun exposure, and using skincare products that inhibit melanin production can be effective in preventing dark spots and uneven skin tone.
If you’re looking to prevent hyperpigmentation, consult with a skincare specialist at Dr Nerina Wilkinson + Associates. Utilising state-of-the-art VISIA Skin Analysis, we can identify your specific skin concerns and recommend a proactive approach tailored to your skin type. Book your consultation today.
How to remove pigmentation from the face permanently?
While some treatments can significantly reduce or eliminate pigmentation, it’s important to note that maintaining results requires continuous sun protection and skincare.
Procedures like laser treatments, chemical peels, intense pulsed light (IPL), and specialised skincare products can provide substantial improvements. However, consulting a skincare specialist is crucial to choose the best-suited treatments.
Does pigmentation go away?
Some forms of pigmentation, such as those caused by acne or minor injuries, may fade over time without treatment. However, pigmentation resulting from prolonged sun exposure or hormonal imbalances might require intervention. Regardless of the cause, implementing a robust sun protection regimen can prevent further pigmentation and protect treated areas.
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Pigmentation treatment consultation
As experts in aesthetic treatments, we guide you on a customised path to luminous, even-toned skin. Using innovative treatments and top-of-the-range techniques, our aesthetic skincare experts dive deeper into understanding and resolving your pigmentation issues with unparalleled expertise.
Contact us to schedule your transformative consultation at our exclusive private practice in the V&A Waterfront, Cape Town.