This article is a translation of the original French article “Taches pigmentaires : comment les réduire efficacement” and is intended for the French market. Treatments, availability and prices may differ at our London clinic.
What causes pigmentation spots to appear?
Pigmentation spots can have various origins, including:
- Sun exposure: the main cause of pigmentation spots is exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays stimulate melanin production, which can lead to brown spots appearing on the most exposed areas.
- Ageing: with age, the skin undergoes changes that can encourage pigmentation spots. These spots, often called age spots, generally appear from your forties onwards.
- Hormonal factors: hormonal fluctuations, such as those seen during pregnancy (melasma or the mask of pregnancy) or due to taking oral contraceptives, can cause hyperpigmentation.
- Inflammation and skin lesions: acne scars, injuries or any form of skin inflammation can lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Genetic predisposition: some people are more predisposed to developing pigmentation spots because of their genetic make-up.
How can you fade pigmentation spots?
To fade pigmentation spots, several approaches can be taken:
- Sun protection: daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF is essential to prevent existing spots from worsening and new ones from appearing.
- Depigmenting products: creams containing active ingredients such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, vitamin C, glycolic acid and retinol can help lighten pigmentation spots. These products work by inhibiting melanin production and exfoliating the skin.
- Exfoliation: regularly using chemical exfoliants (alpha-hydroxy acids, beta-hydroxy acids) or physical exfoliants can help remove pigmented cells on the surface and promote cell renewal.
Which aesthetic medicine treatments can fade pigmentation spots?
For faster and often more visible results, several aesthetic medicine treatments can be considered:
- Hydrafacial + LED: a non-invasive treatment that deeply exfoliates the skin, thereby stimulating cell renewal and fading brown spots.
- Chemical peels: these treatments use acids to exfoliate the superficial layers of the skin, which can reduce the appearance of pigmentation spots.
- Laser treatment for brown spots: laser treatments target and destroy pigmented cells without damaging the surrounding tissue. BabyFace LaseMD Ultra, for example, combines laser sessions with a personalised serum infusion. This treatment is designed to improve skin texture, reduce pigmentation spots and promote younger-looking skin.
In conclusion, pigmentation spots can be treated in a variety of ways, from daily skincare at home to more advanced aesthetic medicine treatments. The key lies in prevention, particularly through rigorous sun protection, and in choosing treatments suited to each skin type and each specific situation. Always consult a professional before starting any treatment to obtain professional, personalised advice.
