Introduction
Age-related pigmentation disorders are the gradual appearance of pigmented spots and uneven skin colour as we get older. They are mainly caused by photoageing and the gradual breakdown of the mechanisms that regulate melanin. These changes are benign but very common, and are often seen as a visible sign of ageing.
Symptoms
- Multiple brown spots of varying intensity
- Uneven skin pigmentation
- Mainly on sun-exposed areas
- Often accompanied by skin laxity
- Less even skin texture
- No pain or itching
Causes
- Cumulative chronic sun exposure
- Natural cellular ageing
- Oxidative stress
- Impaired regulation of melanin production (melanogenesis)
- Environmental factors
- Individual predisposition
Diagnosis
- Clinical skin examination
- Overall assessment of the skin and how it is ageing
- Ruling out other, abnormal pigmented lesions
- Assessment of sun exposure habits
Treatments
- Suitable depigmenting skincare
- Topical retinoids
- Skin antioxidants
- Medical pigment lasers
- Medical IPL
- Superficial or medium-depth chemical peels
- Medical LED therapy
- Combined anti-ageing protocols
Management
A personalised dermatological assessment
A comprehensive anti-ageing strategy
Strict daily sun protection
Regular dermatological follow-up