There are various ways of targeting unwanted pigmentation in a professional environment. Chances are, if you are reading this, you already know that pigmentation is the uneven, irregular brown patches that are visible to the naked eye. However, pigmentation can also be underlying and so we begin every depigmentation assessment with a digital skin diagnostic tool called the Visia. This device enables us to see below the surface of the skin to determine the type and severity of the pigmentation we are addressing. Sometimes pigmentation may not be visible on the surface of the skin, but when viewed under the Visa we see a clear indication of melanin activity in the skin. Melanin is the pigment present in the skin, which is either brownish red or yellowish brown depending on the type of pigmentation, as well as your genetics and hereditary factors. A depigmentation treatment reverses the pigment process in the skin using a combination of devices and clinically trialled active ingredients for optimal results.

IPL & Laser are effective on most forms of pigmentation, however there is a more stubborn type of pigmentation called Chloasma or Melasma, which often does not respond to heat and light-based treatments and in fact can become more stubborn by exposure to these.

This condition is characterised by large brown patches, similar in size, which cover large areas of skin. Melasma is often brought on by hormonal changes, such as pregnancy, menopause, stress, thyroid imbalances, certain medications, and topical agents that cause inflammation in the skin. 

When treating general pigmentation such as sunspots, freckles and mottled pigmentation from general sun exposure IPL, Laser and Skin Peels that resurface and reprogram skin cells remain effective methods of treatment. However, when faced with Melasma/Chloasma the last thing you want to do is induce trauma to the skin. This condition requires a specific concentration of active ingredients to reverse the pigment processes in the skin, while supporting the skin’s immune system, rebuilding essential hydration levels, and reducing the severity of inflammation throughout the process.

If solid patches of pigmentation are getting you down, you may be the ideal candidate for the Temple cosmelan® Depigmentation Program, which takes place over a 6-month period. The initial treatment includes a professional in-salon peel with the application of a thick mud-like mask which stays on for a duration determined by your natural skin tone. This duration varies between 8 to 12 hours and will be determined by your therapist during the consultation. The mask is then rinsed off thoroughly with water and 72 hours after the application of the depigmentation mask you may begin your homecare routine.

It is essential to follow the homecare steps which include the application of a specialised treatment cream and a repair cream at different intervals, the frequency of which your therapist will adapt to your skin’s response. Most of our clients see dramatic results in just 30 days, although it is of the utmost importance to follow your therapists’ instructions to the letter for 6 months to maintain the progress made and to continue to see results. It is about reprogramming the skin and this process takes time.

The potent cosmelan® Formula accelerates cell renewal, so peeling and flaking accompanied by redness and slight swelling is very much a part of the initial treatment phase. However, this resolves relatively quickly, within 5 to 7 days and the active ingredients immediately go to work regulating cellular function and eliminating excess pigment formation or stored deposits of pigmentation. The active ingredients further decrease the over production of melanin and prevents the transfer of melanin from melanocytes to the skin.

Your skin will be fully restored within 15 days, although some skin types maintain a red hue for the duration of the homecare application, which contains low levels of the professional formula. If redness and sensitivity persist, your therapist will adjust the frequency and strength of your homecare routine

Phase 1:  Intensive Depigmentation: 
In-salon cosmelan® Peel Application, 4 x Recovery LED Light Therapy & Sheet Mask, 1 x Vit C Recovery Facial at 30 days and a two-month supply of homecare products.

Phase 2: Continuous Depigmentation:
Visit the clinic once a month for a Visia scan to track progress and continue the homecare plan as directed by your therapist

Phase 3: Depigmentation Regulation:
Your therapist will decrease the frequency of your homecare routine to maintenance levels, this usually takes place around 90 days post procedure in order to monitor how the skin responds with less support from the depigmentation products.

Phase 4: Reappearance Control:
If there is evidence of rebound (returning) pigmentation on your next follow up visit, your therapist will increase the homecare frequency and strength until a balance is achieved, where the skin demonstrates the ability to self-regulate the pigmentation.