Screen the sun away

Pigmentation is a complex condition resulting in darkening and uneven skin tone. Research indicates that Indian skin is much more susceptible to pigmentation compared to other skin tones. But we aren’t the only ones as celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Jenna Dewan Tatum and Olivia Munn have suffered from it too. The causes could be external like sun allergies or reactions, reactions to cosmetics especially inferior quality ones or internal issues like thyroid, hormonal imbalances like polycystic ovaries, etc.

From a dermatologist’s perspective, a combination of treatment options like topical de-pigmenting agents, peels and lasers are required to treat a pigment related condition holistically. Pigment lasers are of many types, but the safest type for Indian skin is the Q switch ND-YAG laser. One such laser is the Tribeam Premium. The Q switch ND-YAG laser is safe to use on dark and pigmented Indian skin and has features such as the photoacoustic toning pulse (PTP mode) which divides the energy delivered into the skin for treatment, making the treatment safe and comfortable for the patient.

The Tribeam Premium treatment selectively attacks the pigment melanin in our skin. Hence only the target melanin is treated, preventing damage to the surrounding normal skin.  It is fast and has various safety features which allow the laser surgeon to treat all types and sizes of lesions and also makes it virtually painless for the patient.

The excess pigment is then broken down into smaller fragments and digested by the skin cells (macrophages) ultimately being removed out of the body by the lymphatic system. The duration of treatment is quick and can be performed every 10 days to two months depending upon the nature of the pigment related condition. It is also an excellent treatment for skin rejuvenation in men and women as in combination with a carbon peel, it can zap away acne and improve texture and skin tone leaving your skin looking fresh and bright.

Whatever the cause, pigmentation will always get aggravated by sun and heat. Hence the use of sunscreen is the most important part of your skin care regime. As one of the top dermatological concerns today, it is important for the Indian patients and dermatologists to have access to safe and effective pigment lasers.

The writer is a cosmetic dermatologist.
(Disclaimer: Always check with an expert before going ahead with such treatment.)