Hi
This is a very common question asked by many of my patients. As the question is rather general with no specifics regarding to the type and severity of the pigmentation I would like to offer my advice as such :
For mild pigmentation issues which is more like Dyschromia or patchy skin with open pores you can consider the following
1. Medifacials — the most popular and effective ones being Silkpeel , Hydrafacial and Oxygeneo . What they have in common is that they exfoliate the skin getting rid of the dead skin cells, infuse the skin with brightening and hydrating agents and in the case of the oxygeneo there is an element of RF skin toning as well .
2. TDD ( transdermal delivery ) devices which include iontophoresis, electrophoresis, sonophoresis , microneedling , and plasmaphoresis . What these devices have in common is that allow better penetration of active ingredients into the skin to have either brightening / whitening effects or effects on skin texture/ hydration and pores .
For pigmentation issues that are more severe you can consider the following
1. IPL or intense pulse light photofacial or photorejuvenation . In simple terms this is a light based energy device that delivers light of different wavelengths that effects changes in the skin . It is especially effective for freckles and superficial pigmentation and redness on the skin and also helps in reducing pores thus making the skin smooth and glowing .
2. Lasers that target the pigments would be generally the Q switched lasers or the newer gernerstion of Picosecond lasers . While these lasers primary target is the pigment the light energy they emit is also absorbed by the water in the skin which induces a mild thermal injury . This in turn stimulates the fibroblasts to produce new collagen as well as collagen remodeling. This will have a beneficial effect on the open pores, scars and skin texture . The Pico Genesis Laser for example has a MLA ( microlens array ) handpiece that allows the energy to be better concentrated and at a deeper penetration to allow for more effective neocollagenesis.
3, Slyfirm which is a new generation of RF microneedle device that utilises non insulated needles to deliver micro pulses of RF coagulative energy to induce changes in the basement membrane (BM ) of the skin, These changes leads to improvement in pigmentation as well as redness of the skin . Because the depth of penetration can be calibrated it can also lead to improvement in open pores and skin texture .
Hope this helps . Please discuss your expectations of the treatment outcomes with your doctor so that he / she can advice you on the best possible options for you .
Regards
Dr KK Chew
