Chamjin Korean Medicine Clinic
ACNE & CHARMJIN
[Health Week] Causes and Treatments for Pigmentation
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation occurs when a pimple's area begins to appear red and then darkens over time. When acne occurs, new blood vessels form to heal the inflammation, resulting in a reddish discoloration. Once the inflammation subsides, the skin produces more melanin to protect the affected area from UV rays. This is what causes the brownish marks on the skin, called hyperpigmentation. This hyperpigmentation usually fades after about six months, but in severe cases, it can persist for even six months.

The area around the mouth is more prone to hyperpigmentation than other areas, and darker skin is more susceptible to hyperpigmentation. Age at onset, severity of inflammation, and exposure to UV rays increase the risk of hyperpigmentation. To prevent hyperpigmentation, it's important to address inflammation as quickly as possible. This is because if inflammation is left untreated, hyperpigmentation is more likely to occur during the healing process.

Areas affected by acne pigmentation should receive treatments that facilitate the exfoliation of dead skin cells and promote the rapid regeneration of new skin tissue. Peeling treatments promote regeneration by exfoliating dead skin cells. Iontophoresis is a whitening treatment that utilizes positive and negative electrodes. It uses electrode action to penetrate vitamin C deeper into the skin, fading pigmentation. MTS is a treatment that stimulates the dermis with fine needles to promote regeneration, making it effective in treating hyperpigmentation.

Pigmentation in the superficial epidermis improves relatively quickly, but hyperpigmentation in the deeper dermis is less likely to respond quickly. Dermal pigmentation requires at least two months to respond, with an average treatment period of six months or more.

Pigmentation treatments should be performed when the skin is stable and free of new acne. Therefore, if inflammation persists, it's best to first calm it down and then proceed with scar treatment. While pigmentation is a common concern, it can be significantly improved with proper care and treatment. For a better prognosis, seek immediate treatment rather than waiting for it to naturally disappear after about six months.

Source: Health Week - https://www.healthweek.co.kr
Original article:https://www.healthweek.co.kr/news/view.php?bIdx=6375
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