PIGMENTATION PROBLEMS
FINDING THE CAUSE
People of all races have skin pigmentation
disorders. Some disorders, like albinism (which affects one out of every 17,000
people) are rare. Others, such as age spots, are very common.
WHAT CAUSES PIGMENTATION
PROBLEMS?
There are several types of skin pigmentation problems such as
Melasma and Solar Lentigo.
These would be considered as hyper-pigmentation. It produces more than enough
Melenin. Hypo-pigmentation means the body does not produce enough melanin.
Albinism, for example, is an inherited condition that causes a lack of pigment.
So people with albinism typically have light skin, white or pale yellow hair,
and light blue or gray eyes. Also those with Vitiligo which creates smooth,
depigmented white spots on the skin. Lichen simplex chronicus is a skin
disorder with severe itching that causes thick, dark patches of skin to develop.
Lamellar ichthyosis (fish scale disease) is an inherited disease that also is
characterized by darkened, scaly, dry patches of skin. In addition, many
people have moles, freckles, age spots, and birthmarks, ranging from red or
brown to bluish, black, covering various parts of their bodies.
MELASMA
What is it?
Melasma is a hyperpigmentary disorder of the
skin characterized by dark spots or blotches on the face, forehead and neck.
This can occur during fluctuations in hormones, such as during pregnancy or when
taking oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy. Melasma means "mask
of pregnancy" because it sometimes looks like a mask. It appears as brown or
gray-brown patches on your face.
Who is likely to get it?
About 5 to 6 million American women have
Melasma, mostly women between the ages of 20 to 39. Between 50% and 70% of
pregnant women experience melasma, usually during the second or third trimester.
Melasma seems to run in families if your mother and grandmother had melasma, you
are more likely to develop it. It is more common in people with light
brown skin, especially Hispanics and Asians. People with the autoimmune
disease (when immune cells, which attack invaders, become abnormally programed
to kill self cells inside the body) systemic lupus also may develop a similar
butterfly-shaped mask on their faces.
What causes it?
It is
triggered by both sun exposure and hormonal changes during pregnancy. Sun
exposure can further darken your melasma. Your skin naturally darkens, or
tans, in response to sun exposure. This darkening is caused by the pigment
melanin. In women with melasma, there is too much melanin in certain areas of
the face.
SOLAR LENTIGO
What is it?
Solar Lentigines, also called sun, age, or
liver spots, are benign flat brown spots that look like large brown freckles.
They appear on sun-exposed skin, such as the face or back of the hands. While
freckles do tend to appear over time, they are not in themselves a sign of old
age. Instead, they appear on sun-exposed areas in people who have a genetic
tendency to develop them. So, they are by no means purely a function of age.
Sometimes, older people who have these lentigo-type freckles also have raised,
brown, crusty lesions called seborrheic keratoses.
Who is likely to get it?
90% of light skinned people over the age of
60 develop the condition. In general, those who are most likely to have solar
lentigines are people who have a tendency to sunburn and tan little or not at
all (skin types 1 and 2). The term "liver spots" is entirely misleading.
These spots have nothing whatsoever to do with the liver. They are just the
lentigo-type freckles that are commonly seen in older people who are or who have
been out in the sun without sufficient sunscreen.
What causes it?
It is a skin condition caused by chronic
exposure to the sun or UV rays.
VITILIGO
What is it?
Vitiligo is a hypopigmentation disorder (where the body does not produce enough
melanin) that creates smooth white spots on the skin.
Who is likely to get it?
The
condition affects nearly 2% of the population, typically striking those between
the ages of 10 and 30, and is most prevalent among those with darker skin.
The hypopigmentation spots associated with vitilgo sometimes form where a person
has been cut or injured. Research has shown that the light patches associated
with vitilgo do not contain melanocytes, the type of skin cells that create
melanin. Some scientists believe vitilgo may be caused by an autoimmune
disorder. It also has been linked to other conditions such as hyperthyroidism
(too much thyroid hormone) and Addison's Disease, which affects the adrenal
gland.
What causes it?
It's
unknown. Researchers are testing their theories like above. Though many people report pigment loss shortly after severe sunburn,
the cause is likely a combination of genetic, immunologic and neurogenic
factors.
LICHEN SIMPLEX CHRONICUS
What is it?
Lichen simplex chronicus is a skin disorder with severe itching that causes
thick, dark patches of skin to develop. Lamellar ichthyosis (fish scale disease)
is an inherited disease that also is characterized by darkened, scaly, dry
patches of skin.
Who is likely to get it?
A
psychological syndrome gives people with lichen simplex chronicus to develop a
compulsive need to scratch, which causes dark, leathery skin to form. This can
lead to permanent scarring and infection if untreated. Scientists believe
lamellar ichthyosis is caused by genetics. To detect conditions like
lichen simplex chronicus, doctors may do a biopsy to remove some of the affected
skin for further study under a microscope. Some physicians also use a wood's
lamp, or black light test, to diagnose skin conditions. Affected areas would
absorb the ultraviolet light and stand out with flourescent colors in the
darkened room.
What causes it?
It's
unknown. Researchers are testing their theories like above. Though many people report pigment loss shortly after severe sunburn,
the cause is likely a combination of genetic, immunologic and neurogenic
factors. For lichen simplex chronicus, doctors could prescribe
antihistamines and topical steroid creams to stop the itching. You can
contact your local dermatologist for details.
FRECKLES
What is it?
A small brownish spot on the skin, often turning darker or increasing in number
upon exposure to the sun. Freckles are flat, circular spots that typically
range in the size of the head of a nail. The spots develop randomly on the skin,
especially after repeated exposure to sunlight and particularly in persons of
fair complexion. Freckles vary in color -- they may be red, yellow, tan,
light-brown, brown, or black -- but they are always darker than the skin around
them since they are due to deposits of the dark pigment called melanin.
Who is likely to get it?
Individuals that have the type called Ephelides
are
most often found in people with light complexions and in some families, they are
an hereditary (genetic) trait. Those with the type called Lentigines are
children.
What causes it?
There
are two basic types of freckles -- both with somewhat strange names -- ephelides
and lentigines:
-
Ephelides
(singular: ephelis, the Greek word for freckle): This term refers to flat spots
that are red or light-brown and typically appear during the sunny months and
fade in the winter. The regular use of sunscreen during times of sun
exposure helps to suppress the appearance of the ephelis-type freckle.
-
Lentigines
(singular: lentigo, from the Latin word for lentil): Children may develop a
small tan, brown, or black spot which tends to be darker than an ephelis-type
freckle and which does not fade in the winter. This kind of spot is referred to
as lentigo simplex. Although occasionally lentigines are part of a rare genetic
syndrome, for the most part they are just isolated and unimportant spots.
Irrespective of skin color, it is the uneven
distribution of the melanin pigment in the skin that results in freckling. A
freckle is nothing more than an unusually heavy deposit of melanin at one spot
in the skin. Light skin, Dark skin, red heads, blonde. Don't let yourself think
your not at risk. Protect your skin.
SEBORRHEIC DERMATOSES
What is it?
Seborrheic
dermatosesare also benign (not malignant) growths of the skin. Although they are
most often brown, they can differ in color and range anywhere from light tan to
black. They occur in different sizes, too, ranging anywhere from a fraction of
an inch (or centimeter) to an inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. The telltale
feature of seborrheic keratoses is their waxy look. They look like they have
either been pasted on the skin or may look like a dab of melted brown candle wax
that dropped on the skin. When they first appear, the growths usually
begin one at a time as small rough bumps. Eventually, they thicken and develop a
rough, warty surface.
Who is likely to get it?
Almost everybody
eventually develops at least a few seborrheic keratoses since, like the lentigo-type
of freckles, they tend to become more common with age. They are sometimes
referred to as the "barnacles of old age."
What causes it?
Seborrheic
keratoses may occur in the same areas as freckles but, since they are not caused
by sunlight, they can also be found on covered areas.
FINDING WHAT WORKS
The best way to prevent some forms of
pigmentation is to avoid to much sun exposure. Always wear SPF15 or higher
when out as well. Wear a hat, sunglasses and during certain parts of the day, it
may be best to wear a long sleeved shirt. 80 percent of our sun exposure comes
before we are 18 years of age, so parents should be mindful of their children
during outside activities. Seek shade between 10am and 4pm. If you see any
growth, mole, sore, or skin discoloration appearing suddenly or it changes
appearances in shape, size and color, consult a dermatologist immediately.
WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT MELASMA?
It may fade
naturally, but there are treatments to consider if it doesn't. To learn
more about the condition of Melasma, visit
www.melasmafacts.com
or
www.melasmainformacion.com in Spanish. Wear an SPF for the face no
less than SPF30 that contains UVA and UVB protection. UVA rays can have a
greater effect on your Melasma than UVB rays and are intense all year long, even
on cloudy days. They can even penetrate car windows, so make sure your sunscreen
has broad-spectrum protection. Also try to shield your face from the sun with
hats or visors.
Natural Solutions does have one from Devita called Devita Solar Protective
Moisture 30. It is our most popular solar protector for the face.
You'll find it under our skincare section off the Home page.
WILL MELASMA FADE AWAY?
Sometimes
melasma will fade away, but it may take a long time for the patches to lighten.
If melasma fades after the delivery of a baby, it can return with each future
pregnancy. If you are taking birth control pills and then stop, the
discoloration on your face may start to clear gradually. There are
treatments that can help lighten those dark patches. Talk to a dermatologist
to see if the spots on your face are due to melasma and what treatment is right
for you. Here at Natural Solutions, Devita makes two products that could
help naturally fade the discoloration; Devita Sun Repair Serum and Devita Skin
Brightening Serum.
WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT SOLAR LENTIGO?
See a
dermatologist to learn more about the latest treatments. Skin-lightening creams
are available for hyperpigmentation disorders thru your physician. Doctors also
advise staying out of the sun. Counseling with a dietitian may help in cases
caused by poor nutrition. Here at Natural Solutions we offer the Devita
line that offers two pigmentation serums; Devita Sun Repair Serum and Devita
Skin Brightening Serum. Devitas Neck and Throat Cream also contains
lightening ingredients. Check under our Skincare section on the home page for
more details.
WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT VITILIGO?
Physicians
may prescribe a combination of photo-sensitive medications like
trimethylpsoralen and ultraviolet light therapy to darken the spots. If the
person has depigmented patches covering more than 50% of the body, doctors also
may be able to use skin bleaching agents like monobenzone to give the skin a
lighter, more uniform appearance. Other options include cosmetic concealers and
skin grafting. To
learn more, visit the American
Academy of Dermatology site.
Natural Solutions offers a variety of concealers and creme foundations that
could help camouflage. The Nvey line is heavier and offers longer staying
power. Using a combination of colors may work for you. Nvey items can be
found under our cosmetics section on the home page.
I'VE USED A TANNING BED FOR A LONG WHILE. HOW DO I
GET THE LOOK OF A TAN NATURALLY?
Here at Natural Solutions we offer two items. Sante Kosmetics has made
natural tanning lotion that is gentle and gives a warm glow to the skin.
Sante also has a bronzing fluid that is like an instant tan. Although more
bronzy than I'd prefer, many will enjoy the ability to add a touch of the sun to
their arms, legs, necks and faces instantly. To find this product, look on the
Home page for Bodycare and Sun Protection.
HOW DO I FADE MY FRECKLES AND
PREVENT THEM?
Freckle
prevention is obviously better than developing them and then needing to treat
them. Therefore, anyone with an hereditary tendency to freckle -- who freckles
easily -- should wear sunscreen whenever appropriate and also minimize their sun
exposure. Freckles are a warning to people who have them that their skin is
highly vulnerable to sunburn and to skin cancer. There are many options that
your dermatologist would offer such as Cryosurgery, Laser treatment, products
like Retin-A and chemical bleaching creams. Another option is products
containing hydroquinone and kojic acid can be purchased without a prescription.
Higher concentrations of hydroquinone (over 2%) require a prescription. These
products can lighten freckles if they are applied consistently over a period of
months. We carry a few here from Devita called Devita Skin Brightening Serum,
Neck and Throat Cream and Sun Repair Serum. You can find them on under our
Skincare page located by clicking "Home."
REGIMES FROM LIVING NATURE
The Cleansing Clay Peel helps even the skin tone and taking Evening Primrose Oil
internally helps the body replenish its own skin cells. Use a sunfilter for the
face when going outside to protect you from the sun as your pigmentation will
instantly return with the suns rays. Currently Living Nature does not have
a specific product for pigmentation.
WHY PROPERTIES OF ROSEHIP CAN HELP WITH
ACNE SPOTS
ROSE HIP OIL AND ITS SKIN CARE
PROPERTIES?
Several teams of plastic surgeons are presently using Rose Hip Oil to complement
the treatment of scars. The oil of Rose Hip seeds (Rosa Rubiginosa Aff.
originally known as Rosa Eglanteria) has helped in the recovery of thousands of
people who have suffered burns. Dr Leonardo Rusowsky, surgeon at Enrique
Deformes hospital in Santiago, Chile, is acting president of the Corporation For
Aid to Burnt Children which is home based at the said hospital. Dr Rusowsky
believes that Rose Hip Oil is and important complement to treating burns ands
scars.
Research with Rose Hip Oil is currently being carried out at the Enrique
Deformes hospital Rose Hip Oil is being applied to burnt children in the way of
compresses and massotherapy (massages carried out by kinesiologists to loosen up
scars). Dr Rusowsky says that while it will not be possible to obtain scientific
conclusions before one year, it is possible to state the following:
1. Rose Hip Oil improves the texture and quality of skin by increasing its
elasticity.
2. Rose Hip Oil helps people who have suffered burns. Its effect more than to
flatten out hypertophic and hyperplasic scars (raised and bulky scars), is to
improve the colour of the scars and of the scars and of the skin in the affected
area.
Researchers in Chile have found a natural oil that provides beneficial effects
to skin. It is the oil extracted from the seeds of a rose bush that grows wild
in the south of Chile, a cool and very rainy mountain region. The oil pressed
off the Rosehip seed contains an amazing 77% of fatty acids (linoleic and
linolenic). Fatty acids have very important functions in the regeneration of
skin cells and repairing of damaged tissue.
Over the years Rose Hip Oil has been shown to retard the signs of premature
ageing and provide excellent results in the treatment of burns, scars and
unsightly spots on skin.
If applied consistently during two or three months Rose Hip Oil was found to:
1. Reduce wrinkles and signs of premature ageing. It will also help counter the
drying effects of the sun which are usually first noticed in fine wrinkles or
'crows feet' around the eyes and mouth.
2. Attenuate scars (surgical and accidental) and improves the colour of same
(i.e. reduces the redness or hyperpigmentation). It also avoids the formation of
the keloid type of scar (lump) which may appear after surgical procedures.
3. Provides excellent results in treatment of skin that has been burnt or
exposed to radiotherapy.
Rose Hip Oil is massaged into the affected area with fingertips and completely
absorbed. It is supplied 100% pure, has no added chemicals and involves no
testing on animals.
ROSE HIP OIL ASSISTS MEDICAL
TREATMENT?
Doctor Hans Harbst, surgeon and radiotherapist presently practising in Chile,
graduated in radio oncology, radiology and nuclear medicine at the Nuclear
Research Institute of the University of Heidelberg, Germany. Dr Harbsr heads the
Department of Radio oncology of the Indian clinic of Santiago and is also the
head of the Department of Radiology of the Chilean Air Force Hospital in
Santiago.
Dr Harbst has extensive experience in the application of Rose Hip Oil for
healing skin alterations, especially secondary dermatitis, which takes place as
a result of radiotherapy.
Dr Harbst explains about the use of products containing Rose Hip Oil "As a
radiotherapist I work with several patients that have been operated upon and ,
there fore, have scars. Also, the radiation to which they are exposed may
produce secondary effects on the skin such as inflammations, darkening and
actinic dermatitis. These effects are in most cases unavoidable because in the
same way that a surgeon leaves a scar when he or she operates, a radiotherapist
leaves a mark on the radiated areas, which are not injuries as such but skin
reaction. This means a problem for the patient, especially when he or she are
left with marks in areas exposed to view like the face, head or neck. "I have
applied Rose hip Oil on all types of skin. Rose Hip Oil acts on scars reducing
hyperpigmentation, flattening hypertrophia (bulky scars) and loosening up
fibrous chords. All these effects end up in a near complete attenuation of
scars.
ROSE HIP APPLICATION ON AGED
SKIN?
Changes produced on skin by the action of the sun i.e. photoaging (dermatoheliosis)
are very common in all countries of warm climate.
Exposure to sun causes important morphological changes in skin.
Dermatoheliosis appears in different ways and varying intensity ranging from
surface wrinkles, active keratosis and variation in the distribution in the
melanin granules. For this test volunteers were selected among people who
usually spend the 3 months of summer in resorts by the sea or who go to the
beach every day. The tests were carried out of 20 women aged between 25 and 35
who were controlled and assessed during the summer of 1988. The most noted
cancerous sign were surface wrinkles, brown spots, eyelids and in some cases
only an intense tan. Applied All rosehip oil on the face during four months (May
to August, Autumn 1988.)
Observations were made every eight days. Significant changes were noted starting
on the third week. Firstly, surface wrinkles started to disappear, spots started
to fade until at the end of the fourth month the disappearance was complete.
Skin presented a smooth and fresh aspect and the spots had almost disappeared.
ROSE HIP APPLICATION ON SURGICAL
SCARS?
For this test Living Nature used scars that had equal features. Ten women, aged
between 45 and 68 were selected who had suffered unilateral or bilateral
mastectomy. After washing the area with tepid water and soap and careful drying,
the oil was applied by soft massage.
After three months of applying twice daily (morning and evening) it was noted
that the scars were less apparent, without lumps and that skin elasticity had
improved and the colour of the area had improved significantly. They carried out
these observations until four the treating doctors indicated that the skin
conditions were improving considerably allowing implantation of prosthesis or
plastic surgery in far better conditions than with patients who had not been
treated.
NOTE: Living Nature has heard reports of Rosehip oil being slightly photo toxic.
While this has not yet been proved, we do not recommend the use of Rosehip oil
during the day.
Resources
Periodicals
Wilson, Tracy. "The Paler Side of Beauty." Heart and Soul 6, no. 1 (February
1999): 30-33.
Organizations
American Academy of Dermatology. 930 N. Meacham Road, P.O. Box 4014, Schaumburg,
IL 60168-4014. (847) 330-0230. http://www.aad.org.
National Organization for Albinism and Hypopigmentation (NOAH), 1530 Locust St.,
#29, Philadelphia, PA, 19102-4415. (800) 473-2310. http://www.albinism.org.
Other
MelanomaNet. http://www.skincarephysicians.com/melanomanet/index.html.
National Weather Service. "Ultraviolet Light Index."
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/pa/secnews/uv/index.html.
http://www.answers.com/topic/freckle
http://www.healthatoz.com
http://www.pigmentationawareness.com/
