We are a premier Medical Aesthetic Clinic conveniently located in 2 locations. East at #02-12/13 Changi City Point and Orchard at #05-51 Lucky Plaza.
Dr Edwin Lim
Dr Edwin Lim has a fond interest in Aesthetic Injectable Procedures (Neurotoxin and Fillers) and using Lasers with specially formulated skincare products to treat various skin concerns.
Dr Julian Varkkey
His passion for Aesthetic Medicine was ignited when he realized he could make a difference in the lives of his patients by helping them to look their best.
Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and it can lead to the development of hyperpigmentation.
Hyperpigmentation is a condition in which patches of skin become darker than the surrounding skin. It is a common problem for those who have suffered from acne, and it can cause distress and lower self-esteem.
Hyperpigmentation is characterised by dark spots or patches of skin
What causes Acne Hyperpigmentation?
Acne hyperpigmentation occurs when the skin produces too much melanin, which is the pigment responsible for giving skin its color.
When a pimple or acne lesion heals, it can leave behind a dark spot or patch on the skin.
This is because the inflammation caused by the acne triggers the production of melanin in the affected area. The result is a dark, discolored mark that can take several months to fade.
Types of Acne Hyperpigmentation
There are two types of acne hyperpigmentation: Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) and Post-Inflammatory Erythema (PIE).
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)- Brown Acne Scars:
This type of hyperpigmentation is caused by an increase in melanin production after an acne lesion has healed.
PIH can range in color from light brown to dark brown, and it can take several months to fade.
PIH or brown acne scars are common in individuals with a tanned skin tone
PIE or red acne scars are common in individuals with a light skin tone.
Post-Inflammatory Erythema (PIE) - Red Acne Scars:
PIE is a type of hyperpigmentation that is caused by the dilation of blood vessels in the affected area.
It appears as a red or pink mark on the skin and can take up to two years to fade.
How can Acne Hyperpigmentation be prevented?
Avoid Picking and Squeezing Acne Lesions
One of the most important things you can do to prevent hyperpigmentation is to avoid picking and squeezing acne lesions. When you pick or squeeze an acne lesion, you can cause trauma to the skin, which can lead to inflammation and increased melanin production.
This can result in dark spots and uneven skin tone that can last for months or even years. To prevent hyperpigmentation, it's important to let acne lesions heal naturally, and to avoid touching your face or picking at your skin.
Wear Sunscreen Every Day
Sun exposure can exacerbate hyperpigmentation, and it's important to protect your skin from UV rays to prevent further damage. Wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 50 every day can help prevent hyperpigmentation and other types of skin damage.
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, and apply it liberally to all exposed skin.
Learn more about Dr Edwin's recommended sunblock here
Use Products That Contain Skin-Lightening Ingredients
There are many products available that can help prevent hyperpigmentation and improve the overall appearance of your skin.
Look for products that contain skin-lightening ingredients like kojic acid, vitamin C, and niacinamide. These ingredients work by inhibiting melanin production, and can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and uneven skin tone.
Aggressive cleansing can strip the skin of its natural oils, which can lead to inflammation and hyperpigmentation. When cleansing your skin, be gentle and avoid using harsh scrubbing brushes or exfoliants.
Use a mild, non-irritating cleanser and avoid hot water, which can also strip the skin of its natural oils.
Be gentle when cleansing your face and apply good quality sunscreen everyday to avoid hyperpigmentation problems.
Treatment Options for Acne Hyperpigmentation
Topical Treatments
Topical lightening creams containing active ingredients such as retinoids and hydroquinone can be effective in treating hyperpigmentation.
Retinoids work by increasing cell turnover, which can help to fade dark marks. Hydroquinone works by inhibiting the production of melanin in the affected area.
Pigmentation Lasers
Laser therapy can be effective in treating hyperpigmentation.
Pigment Lasers work by targeting the melanin in the affected area, causing it to break down. This can help to fade dark marks and improve skin texture.
Lasers can be an effective treatment for PIE because they can target and break down the excess blood vessels that are responsible for the red or pink discoloration.
Vascular Lasers work by emitting a focused beam of light that penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the hemoglobin in the blood vessels. This absorption causes the blood vessels to heat up and coagulate, or clot, which ultimately leads to their destruction.
Once the excess blood vessels are destroyed, the red or pink discoloration associated with PIE can be significantly reduced.
How do I find the Best Acne Hyperpigmentation Clinic Singapore has to offer?
Every clinic offers different treatment options for Acne Hyperpigmentation. No one clinic is the same as the other. If you want to make sure that hyperpigmentation treatments are performed safely and effectively, make sure that the clinic is experienced in offering such lasers. The clinic should also offer information on the various types of pigmentation and vascular lasers before proceeding.
Get Professional Advice
Book a consultation now with Dr Edwin to learn how your skin goals can be achieved.
Leave us your name, contact details and we will be in touch soon!
