DEPIGMENTATION TECHNIQUE
How does skin depigmentation therapy work?
After an evaluation and a specific medical examination, a gentle therapy is begun 
particularly in those with sensitive skin. If very abrasive substances are used we run the risk of creating contact dermatitis with skin irritation leading to a more serious problem than hyper-pigmentation, called post-inflammatory pigmentation.
PRODUCTS
What products are used for skin spots or melasmas?
- Gentle cleansing cream.
- If the skin is dry, moisturising creams.
- Sun protection creams the whole year round, if exposed to the sun the application of cream must be every two hours.
- We use chemical Peelings prior to beginning the treatment, with depigmenting substances, in order to begin destroying the pigment stored in the skin.
- The most important part is the depigmentation, which acts by inhibiting the formation of melanin by the melanocytes in the skin. Depending on the type of melasma, different products will be used or a combination thereof, above all those described originally by Doctors Kligman and Willis, consisting of the triple topical combination of hydroquinone 5%, tretinoin 0.1% and dexamethasone 0.1%, showing optimum results as the most recent studies demonstrate their effectiveness.
ADVERSE EFFECTS
What side effects does the application of hydroquinone have?
With application of hydroquinone it is normal for an itching sensation to appear together with a reddening of the treated area, as well as a slight peeling of the skin.
Although in general it is a safe medication, side effects are skin irritation and contact dermatitis, which are treated with mild topical steroids. In people of very dark skin and who use very high concentrations of hydroquinone, a phenomenon called ochronosis may appear.
THERAPEUTIC ACTION
What should be expected from the treatment?
- The results can be seen a few months after the procedure.
- Remember that the melasma or skin spot is a gradually appearing process and likewise its cure.
- You must follow the doctor’s orders most rigorously.
- It is very important to avoid the sun, use sun blocking creams and follow the regime instigated or recommended by your doctor.
- Remember that the aim of the creams is to depigment, improve the colour, appearance and quality of the skin, hydrate it and moisturise it, avoid irritation and return it to its normal condition.
