Pigmentation is the increased production and accumulation of melanin pigment in the skin. In dermatology and cosmetology there is a clear definition of that term and its symptoms. This is important, as well as other states may be accompanied by an increase in the intensity of staining of the skin, pigmentation but they have no relation.
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How does the pigmentation
The fair sex is very important time to pay attention to the issue, to immediately eliminate the cause. With the effects of combat is much more difficult, more expensive and costly, both financially and with time. Signs of pigmentation are:
Local darker coloration of the skin;
various shapes and outlines of a pigmented section;
clearly defined boundaries;
smooth surface pigmented section;
color can be quite varied, ranging from light yellow to dark brown;
The most frequent localization - is exposed areas (forehead, cheekbones, nose, skin above the upper lip).
The following discussion focuses on the pigmentation of the upper lip, including on how to get rid of this cosmetic defect. But remember that all of this is written for information. In any case, we recommend pre-visit a dermatologist and cosmetologist before self-medicate.
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Causes of pigmentation on the upper lip
Increased production of melanin in certain places is a sign reflecting the adverse condition of the entire human body. It is true, as the ultraviolet, which stimulates the production of melanin, reaches the face completely, and the pigmentation is formed only on the upper lip.
The most frequent reasons for this should be considered:
thyroid diseases, which are accompanied by a change in its functional state - hypo- or hyperthyroidism (Graves' disease, autoimmune thyroiditis, nodular goiter, etc.);
adrenal disease (primarily a disease of Addison's disease, which has a second name - bronze disease);
Pregnancy (during pregnancy increases the formation of melanin resulting from existing hormonal changes);
violation of ovarian-menstrual cycle;
hormonal contraceptive drugs with or therapeutic purposes;
liver disease, in which blood and melanin metabolism neutralization;
diseases of the pituitary gland, which controls the secretion of the hormone, which stimulates the synthesis of melanin (which may be inflammatory or cancer).
Thus, factors that can lead to the appearance of pigmentation on the upper lip, sometimes varied and constitute serious pathological processes. Therefore, you must promptly seek professional help, and not to listen to the advice of "knowledgeable" people.
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Pigmentation in the summer
The structural features of the face may be determined by the appearance of pigmentation on the upper lip in the summer, when it is not seen as an option pathology. Gradually, this lighter pigmentation and disappears completely. In this case, worrying about her appearance is not necessary. It is to protect this part of the face of the excessive amount of sunlight. For this purpose, it is recommended to use a sunscreen with a high degree of protection to be applied to the face for 15-20 minutes before going outside.
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Pigmentation as a symptom of the disease
If the pigmentation of the upper lip is not associated with increased sun exposure, and there is at any time of year, you need to seek help from a doctor to get tested and get tested. Only a doctor is able to determine the reason for which there is pigmentation. To this end, he shall designate the relevant studies that will help to establish an accurate diagnosis. Typically, diagnostic search includes the following studies:
determining the level of triiodothyronine, thyroxine, thyroid-stimulating hormone, thyroid peroxidase antibodies, thyroid-stimulating hormone;
study of the level of testosterone;
evaluation of the content in the urine of 17-ketosteroids, determination in blood dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate;
determining the level of cortisol;
assessment of the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (allows you to specify the diagnosis of pregnancy);
assessment of hormonal irregularities in the menstrual cycle (determined by the level of estradiol, progesterone, FSH and LH);
liver function tests carried out to assess the functional state of the liver (determined by the level of total, direct and indirect bilirubin, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total protein, albumin and globulin, creatinine and urea);
assess the level of tropic hormones that are released by the pituitary gland;
carried ultrasound of the thyroid gland and liver;
for the diagnosis of pathological process is recommended in the pituitary computed tomography (shown if there is no radiography sella, but it is less sensitive method of diagnosis).
Thus, the diagnosis of the causes of pigmentation means carrying hormonal and instrumental examination.
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Treatment of pigmentation on the upper lip
It is obvious that local hyperpigmentation treatment should be based on the reasons leading to its appearance, as well as local therapy, which promotes the excretion of excess amounts of melanin. Therefore, in the treatment of this pathology attended by several doctors. At least it 2 specialists: a dermatologist and cosmetologist therapist. Only a comprehensive approach to the treatment of hyperpigmentation can expect a good result.
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Local therapy hyperpigmentation on the face
Currently, high-performance way to remove age spots is laser removal. Using this purpose ultrasound less efficiently. And different types of peeling (chemical, mechanical) are inferior in efficiency. Also, to achieve a good cosmetic result biotatuazh recommended. Consider the mechanism of action of the laser beam, possible contraindications for this procedure.
Advantages of the alexandrite laser, neodymium
Alexandrite-neodymium laser - is the latest technology and scientific thought, which allows you to painlessly get rid of annoying facial pigmentation. The high efficiency of this method of getting rid of the excess amount of melanin is achieved due to the following properties of the laser beam:
is chosen such wavelength laser which will destroy the pigment only in those places where it is needed, without affecting other parts of the skin;
no trauma adjacent cells;
delicate procedure - does not leave scars after the conference.
The mechanism of pigment-destroying action of the laser beam
Pigmented cells exhibit an enhanced ability to absorb laser radiation. Absorbing the energy of the laser is the destruction of bonds between molecules of melanin. Therefore, it is easily derived from the skin due to macrophages and other cells of the immune system. As a result, the skin becomes lighter eyes. Importantly, normal skin laser beam does not have a damaging effect.
How is the procedure takes place and how the rehabilitation period
Laser removal of pigmentation on the upper lip - a completely painless procedure that requires no anesthesia. Skin treatment session lasts on average from 5 to 10 minutes, without diverting from the usual human life. After laser removal pigmentation retained a slight reddening of the skin at the site of impact. This light passes hyperemia, usually within an hour.
The destruction and removal of pigment from the skin accompanied by a slight peeling, which disappear on their own within a few days. Thereafter, pigment spots completely disappear. One session is usually enough to get rid of pigmentation on the upper lip.
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Safety of Laser removal of pigmentation
The laser beam is completely harmless, because you can adjust various settings. Therefore completely excluded the possibility of burns, scarring and pigmentation increased stand against this background. Highly skilled individual will choose the wavelength and intensity of the laser radiation.
Thus, pigmentation on the upper lip is causing huge discomfort cosmetic person. Reasons for its appearance can be diverse, including major pathological processes in the body. Therefore, in all cases, the pigmentation of the upper lip should be consulted highly qualified doctor. After establishing the exact cause may conduct both systemic and local treatment. The primary local therapy takes place laser removal of hyperpigmentation.
