My lovely client’s main concerns were age spots and sun-damage related pigmentation. This was despite being on a fairly expensive and popular organic cosmetic grade skincare range and a thorough skincare routine. She also has a history of eczema which presents as an added challenge when treating pigmentation.
Pigmentation is best treated with a combination of treatments including melanin suppressing active ingredients and active ingredients that exfoliate and resurface skin both superficially and from deep within.
However, this can be particularly difficult to achieve with sensitive skins. This is because chemical exfoliation can disrupt the skins natural hydration barrier and trigger flare-ups, which can make both eczema and pigmentation worse.
Most patients with eczema often find it difficult to tolerate active ingredients such as retinol and alfa hydroxy acids (AHAs), which are key active ingredients in addressing age and sun damage-related pigmentation. Also, additives in cosmetic grade skincare such as fragrances and parabens which are usually used to make them smell and look better can worse pigmentation due to their inflammatory actions.
After a careful history and considerations, Mehnaaz opted for the Alumier MD skin range as it is free from chemical filters, dyes, perfumes and parabens. She prescribed three @alumiermduk skincare products to start with including a physical SPF. Once these were tolerated well Mehnaaz gradually added an exfoliation step to the regimen at 1-month follow-up. At 2-months we can see that the pigmentation has improved and sun-spots appear to be fading. The skin tone has evened out and skin looks brighter and much refined.
Because these products are free from nasties they were well tolerated and the patient has continued to be able to use them without any major side-effects. We are now working on strengthening the skins hydration barrier by switching clients current facewash and moisturiser to moisture-boosting Alumier MD products so that we can optimise the regimen further for the best results.
The bottom line to treating such skin conditions is using and selecting the right products. Of course, we are not there yet but with the right approach, we will get there slow and steady.
Photos shared with client consent.