A New Approach For the Treatment Of Facial Pigmentation

By Bruce M. Freedman, MD

Plastic Surgery Associates of Northern VA

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A New Approach For the Treatment Of Facial Pigmentation

Melasma and facial hyperpigmentation, observed as facial hyperpigmentation and brown spots, is often caused by excessive exposure to the sun. It can also be caused or aggravated by hormonal changes, dietary disorders, and physiological stress. While not medically harmful, melasma is often unsightly and of great cosmetic concern. It can be difficult to resolve due to continuous overproduction of pigment (melanin) in the skin. Techniques that reduce the production of melanin and facilitate its breakdown are used to treat melasma.

For decades, chemical peels have been a foundation for the treatment of melasma, as well as other symptoms of facial skin ageing-wrinkles, enlarged pores, and loss of tone. Chemical compounds can be used to predictably remove superficial tissue and stimulate the production of a new, uniform layer of skin. As this occurs, the excessive pigment in the skin is eliminated, and future pigment production is curbed. The new skin cells are more evenly aligned and produce new collagen. This results in smoother, brighter, and tighter skin. In this manner, the peeling process corrects age-related skin problems.

Chemical peels are classified according to their depth of penetration as superficial, medium, and deep. The depth of peeling is controlled by many factors, the most important being the strength and characteristics of the peeling agent. The peeling agents are mixed in a solution, applied to the skin, and allowed to penetrate for a prescribed period of time. After the peel, the facial skin is usually sensitive to sunlight and heat. Moisturizers and sun avoidance are recommended to protect the skin during the healing process. The recovery time is dependent on the specific type of peel and the patient's skin type.

Medium depth chemical peels provide the optimal combination of favorable results, safety, cost effectiveness, and minimal recovery. The Dermaceutic Spot Peel, developed in France, is a medium depth peel that utilizes a two-step approach. Initially, a solution of glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acid is applied to remove the top layers of skin, including dead and damaged skin cells and deposits of hyperpigmentation. Next, a mixture of mandelic acid, retinyl palmitate, salicylic acid, embilica, and idebenone is applied to penetrate the dermis, stimulate cellular regeneration, and hinder the production of future melanin. Afterward, patients experience superficial peeling for 36-48 hours, during which time they should avoid strenuous activities and direct sunlight. To enhance the results of the in-office treatment, patients use a customized, 30-day home care system that includes a foaming cleanser, a hydrating complex, a recovery cream, and a less-concentrated peeling cream. It is this continuous exposure to the peeling agent that makes the Dermaceutic Spot Peel treatment regimen so unique.

The Dermaceutic Spot Peel is an innovative process that reduces hyperpigmentation and rejuvenates the superficial layers of skin. In clinical studies involving patients of all skin types and colors, the Dermaceutic Spot Peel has demonstrated excellent results and no complications. With its quick recovery period, it is an excellent treatment during the upcoming holiday season.