Skin Lightening

What is Skin Lightening

With millions of people seeking treatment for skin discolorations annually, it is no surprise that the professional skin care industry is overflowing with products that boast skin lightening and brightening benefits. Hyperpigmentation is the result of melanin overproduction, either UV-induced, due to sun exposure and tanning beds; hormonally induced, due to melasma; or through post-inflammatory cutaneous trauma. Hyperpigmentation also can be a side effect of Addison’s and Cushing’s diseases, linea nigra, celiac disease and more.

All women, regardless of age or ethnicity want even, clear and radiant skin. For most women, the challenge to achieve radiant skin begins with dark spots or hyperpigmentation caused by the accumulation of melanin (your natural skin pigment). Hyperpigmentation can be intensified by genetics and ethnicity. For black and brown skinned women of African, South East Asian and Hispanic descent, hyperpigmentation can create an uneven skin tone.

For women of European or Asian descent, blotchiness and spots caused by sun damage and the aging process stand in the way of clear and radiant skin. Other roadblocks to clear skin are dryness and breakouts caused by hormonal fluctuations related to life changes like menopause and stress.

Even though they sound the same, there is actually a significant difference between skin lightening, whitening & brightening. Before deciding on your skin care routine, it is very important to understand all three of these categories, their pluses & minuses, and even the potential risks to your health which may be involved.

Before & After Photos

Frequently asked questions

Facts on treating pigmentation and age spots

Premature ageing can present as brown spots and dots, as well as warts and lumps
Superficial pigmentation can be treated with Fraxel laser, Clear + Brilliant, BBL, Chemical Peels, PicoWay Laser, Microneedling, EndyMed FSR and Medical Facials
Erbium lasers like Fraxel can also treat deep pigmentation but also address skin texture and most importantly deep wrinkles
PicoWay or EndyMed FSR is one of the best lasers for treating pigmentation in Ethnic and darker skin types as well as Microneedling and Clear and Brilliant
Chemical peels and Medical Grade Skin Care can help with mild pigmentation
Melasma is a special form of brown pigmentation and is treated differently to age and sun related brown spots
After laser, adhering to a pigmentation prevention program is vital to achieve long lasting results

What causes spots and brown pigmentation?

Brown spots and skin pigmentation can be due to a variety of causes, and a diagnosis is absolutely essential before treatment. If diagnosed incorrectly, pigmentation can actually WORSEN with treatment. A classic example is melasma – skin pigmentation that is caused by excessive overproduction of melanin (brow pigment) by skin cells. This condition should be treated with creams and peels before laser.

Sun-induced hyperpigmentation

Sun exposure (actinic pigmentation), freckles, and skin ageing

One of the primary functions of melanin production in your skin is to protect you from UV rays from the sun. A “tan” is the prime example of your body’s melanin response to the sun.

When the skin is assaulted by repeated exposure to the sun, you experience sun damage in a variety of ways and one of those is brown spots and hyper-pigmentation resulting from an over-production of melanin. Once the cycle of pigment over-production has started, it is difficult to stop it and usually medical intervention is required.

Hormonal hyperpigmentation (melasma or chloasma) caused by hormone changes

The second most frequent cause of hyper-pigmentation is hormone changes. This may be a result of birth control pills, pregnancy or the various stages of menopause. Hormone shifts trigger the melanin cells to go into over-drive. This can happen even if you are not a sun worshipper. Sun exposure will always make it worse.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by injury

The third most common cause of pigmentation is a direct result of some type of injury to the skin. Typical pigmentation-causing injuries include:

Inflammation is your body’s response to injury. Often inflammation is not obvious because it is occurring at a deep level. This inflammation triggers melanin production and the result is a concentration of pigment in the affected area. A common result of improperly performed hair laser is a proliferation of dark patches on the legs or face. There are a variety of hair lasers on the market and not every one is designed for every skin type and color.

Skin Whitening

Skin whitening also known as skin bleaching, is a treatment designed to give you a skin tone lighter than the one you were born with. This is generally achieved by the use of chemicals. These chemicals are often dangerous and the treatments are often painful.

The goal of skin whitening is to lighten or fade your complexion beyond the natural skin tone. To see your natural skin tone, just look at your underarms. Skin whitening is controversial and could have potentially dangerous side effects. Unless you actually want to involve a medical professional in your skincare treatment, then “skin whitening” is probably not what you’re looking for. We do not recommend “skin whitening”, so we’re going to move on to “lightening & brightening”.

Skin Lightening and Hyperpigmentation

In contrast to skin whitening, “skin lightening” has a positive function other than achieving a lighter complexion. In order to understand what skin lightening actually is we first need to understand what hyperpigmentation is

Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition that refers to any darkening of the skin. Dark patches form usually on the face and hands or other areas that are commonly exposed to the sun. This darkening of the skin occurs when an excess of melanin, which is a brown pigment that gives our skin its color, forms deposits in our skin. Although hyperpigmentation is harmless many people are uncomfortable with the way it makes them look.

Hyperpigmentation spots are often caused by repeated exposure to the sun. Freckles and other darkened skin areas can become darker from sun exposure. This happens by the melanin absorbing the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays in order to protect the skin from overexposure.

Another form of hyperpigmentation is Melasma. Melasma spots are larger than the spots caused by sun damage. They appear as symmetric blotchy hyperpigmented patches on the face, usually the cheeks, bridge of the nose, forehead, chin, and upper lip. They are most often caused by hormonal changes. Pregnancy and the use of birth control pills can also bring about the overproduction of melanin, due to hormonal changes.

Acne and other skin diseases may cause hyperpigmentation, leaving dark spots after the condition clears.

To deal with hyperpigmentation, skin lightening products are formulated to even out skin tone and restore the skin’s natural color before the hyperpigmentation sets in. If you want to see your natural skin color, look at the inner part of your upper arm.

How Skin Lightening Works

The goal of skin lightening is not to bleach your skin, but to fade out unwanted blemishes by inhibiting melanin, which gives your skin its color.

Within the many different layers of our skin, there is a layer called the basal layer. In this layer, our skin cells form and divide to create the outer skin layer. In this layer, there is a cell called a melanocyte. This cell is responsible for transporting melanosomes which are cells that contain pigment (melanin) which gives us our skin color. Located in the melanocyte is an enzyme called tyrosinase. This enzyme is responsible for the production of melanin. Hyperpigmentation is caused by this enzyme over producing melanin.

To remedy this, many skin lightening products have been formulated to inhibit tyrosinase, essentially stopping it from over producing melanin. Skin lightening products that include tyrosinase inhibitors are not only for people with hyperpigmentation. Many people with even skin use these products to prevent hyperpigmentation in the future as it is far easier to prevent hyperpigmentation than to correct it once it is present in your skin. Unfortunately even if hyperpigmentation is corrected it can return due to our skin having a memory. Another reason skin lightening is recommended for people with even skin is sometimes hyperpigmentation lies beneath the surface of the skin and will emerge in later life.

“Skin Lightening” reduces pigmentation, lightens discoloration, eliminates blemishes and evens skin tone. Importantly, it can be done through simple skin care products, and does not require any type of medical procedure. Skin lightening products target particular areas of discolorations like age spots and hyperpigmentation from acne breakouts and bruising. Lightening creams work to reduce the melanin pigmentation in a particular area on the skin. Lightening products are best used for a limited period of time.

Skin Lightening Creams

Skin lightening creams are designed to treat hyperpigmentation by reducing melanin in your skin. (Hyperpigmentation is caused by excessive amounts of melanin in areas of your skin.) These creams can be used to smooth out age spots, acne scars and other discolorations resulting in an even skin tone.

There are many skin lightening creams, some over the counter products, and some can only be obtained with a prescription. Prescription lightening creams generally contain hydroquinone and corticosteroids (steroid medication). Products containing these ingredients in some countries are only available with a prescription as they have potentially dangerous side effects if misused. Mercury is another banned substance often found in skin lightening creams.

There are many highly effective products that include natural ingredients that can be found in medical grade skin care sold in medical spas that do not contain hydroquinone.

Hydroquinone: A Skin Lightening Option Which Is Not Recommended

Do you find skin lighteners irritate your skin? This can be frustrating as many lightening products on the market have ingredients that can irritate and even damage delicate skin. If you have sensitive skin and still want to get the benefits of skin lightening you will be happy to know that there are many natural skin lightening alternatives.

The most common ingredient found in skin lightening products over the last 50 years is hydroquinone. What makes this ingredient so sought after is that it effectively decreases melanin in skin. This makes it a potent skin lightening ingredient for someone looking to lighten dark spots, freckles, acne scars, and more. Until recently it was considered to be the safest and most effective treatment for hyperpigmentation including age spots, melasma, sun damage, and other discolorations. The industry has recently announced that Hyroquinone is dangerous and should be avoided over long periods of time.

How Does It Work?

Hydroquinone works by decreasing the number of melanocytes present in your skin. Melanocytes are cells that produce melanin, which is what makes your skin, eyes and hair darker. Less melanin means lighter and more even skin tone.

The Dark Side of Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone isn’t for everyone. It can irritate sensitive skin and may result in redness, itching or dryness. Although the itching and redness often fades over time some people find that their skin can’t tolerate it. Research suggests there may even be lethal side effects associated with long term use of synthetic hydroquinone. One possible side effect is exogenous ochronosis, which is a skin disorder that could potentially leave blue-black spots on your skin, especially if you are of African descent. Due to its toxicity and potential side effects the European community banned its use in cosmetics, and limited its availability to prescriptions. In the US the FDA announced in 2006 that it could potentially cause cancer.

The great news is there are plenty of natural skin lightening products that are completely natural and have none of the side effects. Check out the next question to find out

The Best Way to Prevent Hyperpigmentation: Taking Care of Your Skin by Controlling Sun Exposure

Sun exposure is the primary cause of facial and body brown spots, age spots, freckles, moles and pre-cancerous actinic keratosis. Preventing sun-induced hyperpigmentation is a full time process. Hormones, injury and pigmentation from allergic reactions or skin disease such as acne are mostly beyond your control.

Sunscreen, sunblock, hats and sun-protective clothing are your first line guard against not only unsightly brown patches but also sun damage that could lead to skin cancer.

We have introduced a new UVA protection product called Bluestone Sunshields. Full face protection post procedures and from the sun!

What treatments are there to remove age spots and pigmentation?

Most of our treatments are laser and light based procedures. This gives the greatest improvements in skin pigmentation and age spots. The ideal treatment will depend on your diagnosis. Very mild skin pigmentation and brown spots can respond to creams, conversely long standing pigmentation will only improve with lasers.

The 6 methods to improve skin pigmentation include –

Creams and Skin Care – these are prescribed to help maintain your skin after laser treatment for pigmentation. They can also be helpful in reducing pigment due to melasma, and very mild forms of sun damage. We like to recommend combination ingredients that contain Vitamin A, Vitamin C, AHAs, as well a bleaching and pigment correcting agents. Sunscreen forms the basis of your daily skin care regime.

Chemical peels– can be used for mild pigmentation and freckles.

Lasers – this is the mainstay of removing age spots, sun spots and pigmentation. Depending on the depth of pigmentation, we use specific lasers. FRAXEL is a great option for deeper pigment, however we do combine PicoWay, Clear and Brilliant Permea and BBL in most of our laser programs. Clear+Brilliant is an excellent laser to maintain your skin after skin pigmentation has been treated. PicoWay is an excellent option for spot treatments as well.

BBL Photorejuvenation – an advanced form of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) technology is one of the most effective treatments for dark spots. BBL is a treatment that works to rejuvenate the skin by encouraging skin cell turnover and new collagen production. On dark spots, this treatment reduces the unnecessary melanin that produces excess pigment.

Medical Facials – Facials such as SilkPeel Dermalinfusion, Hydrafacial MD, DMK Facials or Oxygeneo, or Intraceuticals Oxygen treatments are some non invasive ways to help reduce superficial pigment and to help maintain results post laser treatments.

Microneedling – Can be an additional option for superficial pigmentations or as a maintenance treatment after skin pigmentation has been treated.

Can creams help decrease my pigmentation?

Some types of pigmentation can be improved with creams. Dark pigmentation such as melasma a classical example where we use creams and gentle peels instead of laser to treat this condition. Mild freckles and very early sun induced pigmentation can be improved with a mixture of Vitamin A creams, Vitamin C serums, AHAs and bleaching agents and pigment regulating creams.

In most cases of pigmentation, lasers are needs to markedly improve your skin texture.

What are some natural ingredients that help lighten pigmentation?

Hydroquinone Alternatives:

The following ingredients will lighten your skin naturally, without the risks associated with Hydroquinone.

Bearberry Extract

Bearberry extract is a completely natural skin lightening ingredient found in the bearberry shrub which contains arbutin, a natural skin lightener and brightener. Arbutin is a distant cousin to hydroquinone, but is completely natural. It makes the enzyme that is responsible for producing melanin inactive like hydroquinone does, providing you the benefits of hydroquinone such as lightening and brightening your skin tone while also correcting hyperpigmentation problems like age spots, freckles, melasma, and acne scars. Since it is completely natural it has no side effects.

Another benefit of bearberry extract is it contains sun protection filters that can reduce the effects of sun exposure helping to slow the effects of aging.

Licorice Root Extract

Would you believe that licorice is not only used in candy. It is also a powerful natural skin lightener that is often used to treat hyperpigmentation such as age spots, sun damage, melasma and more. It is not only a skin lightener but is also can be used to control excessive oil on your skin.

Licorice root extract is perfect for people with sensitive skin as it can be used to calm down redness, puffiness and itching. Since it has amazing anti-irritant abilities it has far fewer side effects than hydroquinone.

Kojic Acid

Looking to effectively treat melasma? Kojic acid which comes from fermented mushrooms inhibits the over production of melanin in unevenly pigmented skin. This makes it a potent ally in brightening everything from freckles to melasma. Kojic acid has become revered worldwide for its skin lightening abilities. It therefore makes sense that it is found in numerous skin lightening products.

This ingredient is produced after rice is malted for the making of sake. By inhibiting melanin, which is known to darken the skin, kojic acid brightens and lightens your skin instead.

Azelaic Acid

This lightening agent is found in grains like wheat, rye and barley. It is not only effective in lightening skin, but is effective in treating numerous skin conditions too. Azelaic acid was originally used to treat acne. It also reduces inflammation and decreases the production of keratin. Keratin promotes the growth of acne bacteria.

Azelaic acid does two things:

It inhibits melanin production.
It combats hyper-pigmentation by suppressing the growth of melanin producing cells.

Azelaic acid effectively targets hyperpigmentation while has little effect on normally pigmented skin like freckles. This makes it ideal for treating hyperpigmentation disorders.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide actively reduces jagged pigmentation and age spots effectively lightening and soothing your skin. Niacinamide increases ceramide and fatty acid levels in skin effectively increasing hydration levels in your skin. This ensures you softer, smoother skin which is less prone to irritation. In the long term well hydrated skin ensures you firm and wrinkle free skin.

Citrus Extracts

Citrus extracts are a rich source of vitamin C which destroys free radicals in your body. Free radicals are cells that cause aging. Citrus extracts give your skin a radiant glow while rejuvenating it from the inside. Lemon juice naturally whitens skin and effectively removes dark spots. It is also used to mildly exfoliate your skin due to its acidic content by safely peeling off the top layer of your skin. Researchers have also found that citric acid can be used to significantly reverse photo aging and sun damage.

Glycolic Acid

Glycolic Acid is the most active and beneficial of the Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) in skin care. It is generally used as a natural skin exfoliant and moisturizer. Glycolic Acid not only evens out skin discoloration, but also helps minimize fine lines and wrinkles. AHA’s such as Glycolic Acid can assist other ingredients in skin lighteners by allowing them to penetrate farther into the skin.

Lactic Acid

Also an AHA, Lactic Acid mimics the properties of Glycolic Acid but is typically better suited for individuals with sensitive skin. AHA’s such as Lactic Acid can assist other ingredients in skin lightening by allowing them to penetrate farther into the skin.

Glutathione

Found in a wide array of ointments, lotions, pills, and soaps, this ingredient is packed with antioxidants and designed to effectively lighten the skin. Not only does this ingredient help with skin whitening, it also contributes to tissue repair and regeneration.

Lemon

Packed with Vitamin C and citric acid, lemons are made with organic bleaching agents that not only brighten your skin but also give it a healthy glow as well. Not only do lemons leave a refreshing scent on your skin, they also contain citric acid which is a well-known natural bleaching ingredient. Just make sure to apply a rich moisturizer to your skin after the lemon treatment, to avoid dryness.

Mulberry

Made popular in Japan, Mulberry extract is another all-natural choice that will deliver results with consistent use. It may not be the most effective or potent, but it will get you a lighter skin tone over time.

Mulberry extracts are known to help skin. They are widely used by many people all over the globe for purposes of skin lightening. Significant research has been gathered to prove the anti tyrosinase activity of mulberry plants produces the desirable effects as far as skin lightening is concerned. Furthermore, the extract is known to slow down the ageing process. It contains rich anti-oxidant properties thus making it extremely beneficial for preventing wrinkles formation As a result, someone who uses mulberry extract will have flawless, silky smooth skin for many years to come.

Cosmetologists also promote the extract and recommend it for effective skin lightening. The roots and the barks contain excellent healing properties and this is one of the main reason why they are used for producing mulberry extract popularly used as a skin lightener. The extract can additionally be used for removing residual rough skin as well as impurities that may be present on the skin. The extract is also recommended by cosmetology experts because it lowers melanin production that occurs as a result of UV exposure. When used as a skin lightener, mulberry extract resolves all issues related to uneven skin tone thereby allowing a user to have a pleasant skin tone after use.

Spinach

This vegetable, which is packed to the gills with amino acids, is a great choice for people who want to get their glutathione naturally. Other green foods like avocados, asparagus, and broccoli have also been proven to contain a notable amount of glutathione as well.

Aloe Vera

This wonder-plant is not only gentle and soothing on the skin, but effective in reducing redness and skin discoloration as well. By rubbing the insides of the plant (the gel part) on your face, you will make your skin feel brighter, refreshed, and altogether lighter.

Honey

Like aloe vera, honey is both a bleaching aid and a moisturizer all at once. A lot of times, your skin feels uneven and patchy because it’s dry and rough. By incorporating honey into your routine, your skin will look lighter, more even, and feel softer at the same time.

Oranges

Like lemons, oranges have bleaching properties that can really lighten your skin. On top of that, these super-fruits also pack a vitamin C punch and make your skin feel more elastic and soft.

Yogurt

One of the best nutrients for your skin, yogurt is very nutritious and provides a lot of benefits. For one, it has lactic acid which has been proven to brighten skin, and it also moisturizes really well, so your face will feel soft and smooth.

Methods we use to treat

AFA Chemical Peels

The AFA peel is a type of chemical peel that has become an essential part of many men and women’s skincare regimen. AFA stands for Amino acid Filaggrin. It is an antioxidant that works to retain the moisture in your skin, leaving it looking fresh, renewed, and hydrated. AFA peels are also acidic. They work as effective exfoliants yet cause minimal irritation to the skin because they are made from the same type of amino acids found in the body. The AFA peel is actually one of the few chemical peels that do not make your skin sun-sensitive, making it the perfect option for all skin types.

EndyMed FSR

Resurfacing refers to the ablation or removal of skin tissue so new healthy tissue can be formed. Fractional skin resurfacing means that specific small areas, a fraction of the skin’s surface, are removed in a precise pattern leaving the surrounding healthy skin intact. The small sections of untreated healthy skin that are left intact facilitate rapid healing of the treated areas, resulting in very high patient satisfaction. EndyMed’s unique 3DEEP® technology signifies a new era in anti-wrinkle and skin tightening technology. It is clinically proven to deliver tighter, firmer, lifted skin, safely and effectively with little to no downtime.

Microneedling

During this procedure, tiny needles are used to create controlled micro-injuries to the skin in order to produce collagen and elastin, the cornerstones of healthy, firm, smooth skin. eDermastamp also creates superficial micro-channels which allow topical serums to be absorbed more effectively into the skin. The benefits of microneedling are a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles as well as younger-looking skin with fewer signs of aging. eDermastamp also has a positive effect on hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, acne scars, traumatic scars, and stretch marks and generally creates a fresher appearance or glow to the skin.

Skin Care

The key to optimal skin health is a skincare professional. By combining a customized at-home regimen with powerful in-office treatments and targeted skincare solutions, the result is healthier skin with visible improvement in fine lines, wrinkles, and other signs of premature aging. At LSG we offer SkinCeuticals skincare products. SkinCeuticals is an advanced clinical skincare line that offers comprehensive formulas to correct signs of aging, promote healthy skin, and prevent skin damage. Ranging from anti-aging moisturizers and eye creams to acne cleansers, vitamin C serums, and retinol products, our advanced skincare products are backed by science. Physicians and skincare professionals define cosmeceuticals as products on the cutting-edge between cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Active ingredients in cosmeceuticals are expected to be clinically proven to enhance skincare efficacy.

Oxygeneo

Experience the 3-in-1 super facial professionals are calling better than Microdermabrasion. Incorporating patented OxyGeneo Technology for unparalleled skin nourishment & oxygenation, see younger looking skin after your first treatment. Get the exfoliation benefits of microdermabrasion plus deep facial rejuvenation with the infusion of essential revitalizing nutrients and healing skin oxygenation from within. OxyGeneo™ treatments are suitable for all skin types – any ethnicity and pigmentation, sensitive skin, and even for those who keloid (scar) and couldn’t otherwise have abrasion treatments.

Intraceuticals Oxygen Facial

The Intraceuticals treatment, adored by Victoria’s Secret models, pop queen Madonna and other Hollywood stars, is a hyperbaric oxygen system. Due to the Intraceuticals system and use of a high-pressure jet of oxygen, the skin is enriched with hyaluronic acid and serum, which intensely moisturises the skin and provides it with vitally necessary materials, maintaining the skin moisture and providing a clear glowing effect immediately after the procedure! Intraceuticals is the number one treatment from the world’s most famous beauty therapists! Intraceuticals has been awarded the Prix H. Pierantoni pour l’innovation award for outstanding innovation in the field of cosmetology!

SilkPeel Dermalinfusion

Dermal Infusion is a non-invasive skin treatment that combines three areas of skin rejuvenation: exfoliation, extraction, and serum infusion. Your technician will best determine a custom blend of serums for you based on your skin concerns and desired results. The Dermal Infusion device has a chamber that is loaded with your custom blend of serums, which are infused into your skin during the treatment. The pen-like instrument has a diamond-tipped head that exfoliates, plus a vacuum that dislodges dirt and debris from pores, while the hidden chamber infuses the serum blend into your freshly exfoliated skin.

Hydrafacial MD

HydraFacial™ MD is the celebrity secret to maintaining healthy skin throughout life, but it doesn’t come with a celebrity price tag. Laser Spa Group offers HydraFacial™ MD that our surrounding communities can take advantage of. The lavish secret for getting deeply hydrated, detoxed, and rejuvenated skin for a brighter, more luminous complexion. Best of all, HydraFacial™ is a relaxing, indulgent facial treatment for your skin. By combining advanced medical technology with a luxurious and invigorating spa therapy, we’re confident that the HydraFacial™ system quite simply offers one of the best facials available.

BelaMD Dermalinfusion

AFA Chemical Peels

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Skin Lightening

What is Skin Lightening

Before & After Photos

Frequently asked questions

How Does It Work?

The Dark Side of Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone Alternatives:

Methods we use to treat

Products & Treatments we offer

Product

Clear & Brilliant

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