Pigmentation Correction: What is It and Do I Need It?

What is Pigmentation?
Pigmentation is the coloring of skin or living tissue. There are cells in the skin referred to as melanocytes, which produce melanins. Some melanins give people’s skin natural protection against the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.

There are two types of melanins. The first is called eumelanins, which are present in dark-skinned people. Eumelanins are black or brown in color and protect against the dangerous UV rays. The second type of melanin is phaeomelanins or red melanins. Fair-skinned people and people with red hair have phaeomelanins and these do not protect against UV rays.

In some cases, pigmentation is altered showing discoloration. Sometimes the pigmentation is altogether gone. There is no color at all. This is often due to sun damage, aging, and pollutants. When this happens to people they want to fix the discoloring of their skin so that they fit in society normally.

What is Pigmentation Correction?
To help accomplish a more even skin tone or coloring, people will undergo pigmentation correction. They are looking to reduce the appearance of age spots, melasma, freckles, or lesions. Pigmentation correction helps people get even skin tone, get rid of dark spots or scars without having surgery. Instead, if using modern technology, heat is administered to the affected areas as treatment and this has proven to be quite effective. This procedure is fast, less risky, and least invasive.

There are people who try to correct their skin blemishes at home by using topical products that are sold as pigmentation correctors. They simply rub on a dark spot remover or skin lightener, which come in the form of a cream or serum type substance.

There are an abundance of creams and serums to choose from in the market. However, it is probably best to discuss with a doctor first before purchasing so toxic and/or ineffective topical product is being put on the skin. Too many of the products sold on the shelf have the wrong combination of ingredients and some have ingredients that should never be put on the skin. These could lead to more devastating issues.