How to reduce Melanin, help control pigmentation, for brighter skin

The article was professionally consulted with Specialist Doctor I Nguyen Thanh Van - Doctor of Internal Medicine - Dermatology - Department of Medical Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Phu Quoc International General Hospital.

Skin lightening treatments can temporarily reduce melanin production in the skin. Most of these methods work by inhibiting the enzyme that is needed to make melanin. However, it is not possible to permanently reduce the pigment melanin.

Melanin is the pigment that gives people skin, hair and eye color. It is produced by melanocytes.
All people have the same number of melanocytes. However, in each person, this cell makes more or less melanin. The more melanin the skin has, the darker it gets.
When melanin is concentrated in a number of places on the body, it will cause skin darkening, also known as hyperpigmentation. When this happens, some areas of the skin appear darker than the rest.
There are many treatment methods to remove the presence of melanin or reduce melanin production in the skin, but there are many risks and limitations.

Before performing these methods should consult a dermatologist for guidance on choosing the appropriate method.

Laser therapy removes the top layers of the skin, reducing melanin in the treated areas. Commonly used lasers are:
Ablative laser: This method helps to remove the outer layers of skin and requires strong intervention. Non-invasive laser: This method is gentler than invasive laser, helping to promote collagen growth, skin regeneration. Intense pulsed light (IPL) is one such treatment. This technology uses pulses of light energy to heat and destroy melanin, eliminating brown spots. Q-switched ruby ​​laser (QSRL): This method uses pulses of light to heat and decay melanin. As with any medical procedure, laser therapy is not for everyone. Because, it can cause side effects like pigmentation disorders, scarring and infections. Before undergoing treatment, talk to your doctor for advice and a skin test to see if this is the best method for your skin.

You can use topical products to lighten your skin. These products reduce melanin and are commercially available.
Prescription or over-the-counter skin lightening products often have the following ingredients: hydroquinone, kojic acid, vitamin C, glycolic acid, azelaic acid, retinoid. These ingredients have an inhibitory effect on tyrosinase - which is the main enzyme in the synthesis of melanin. So, they will work to slow down the production of melanin and as a result, the skin will become brighter.
However, skin lightening products are known to cause side effects such as: dryness, irritation, redness, itching. Therefore, before using these products should consult a dermatologist to avoid effects on the skin as well as overall health.

Methods of slowing down the production of melanin in the skin do not involve medical treatment. However, it depends on the daily facial routine and some opt for natural methods to correct the condition of the skin.

The function of melanin is to help protect the skin from sun damage. Therefore, when you are exposed to the sun, your skin produces more melanin.
Using sunscreen will limit the process of producing more melanin when the skin is exposed to the sun. Sunscreen also protects the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays and slows down the production of melanin in the skin.
According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the best sunscreen will have criteria such as: having a broad spectrum of sun protection, SPF 30 or higher, and water resistant. Although sunscreen does not block 100% of UV rays from the sun, it can limit the amount of melanin produced in the skin.
For optimal skin protection, you should: limit sun exposure, stay out of the sun from 9 am to 5 pm (this is when the sun's rays are strongest), wear protective clothing sun (eg: wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, long-sleeved shirt,...), avoid tanning.

Several natural remedies can lighten the skin. However, it is not possible to estimate the specific time to see the effectiveness of these methods for each individual. Therefore, in order to implement this method, it is important to be patient and maintain it regularly.
Turmeric: According to a 2012 study, the active ingredient in turmeric can reduce the synthesis of melanin. This active ingredient, called curcumin, has the ability to inhibit tyrosinase, which in turn will prevent the ability of melanocytes to make more melanin. Aloe vera gel: Aloe vera can reduce melanin production after sun exposure. Aloe vera contains aloesin, a compound that inhibits tyrosinase, according to research conducted in 2002. However, a more recent 2012 study determined that aloe vera had no effect. this use. Although the results of these studies are conflicting, people who use aloe vera gel still notice a skin-lightening effect.

Lemon juice: People also often use lemon juice to reduce skin pigmentation. This can be explained by the high vitamin C content in lemon juice. According to a 2017 article in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, vitamin C can reduce tyrosinase activity, preventing melanin formation. Although lemon juice has potential anti-pigmentation effects, it can cause skin effects such as skin irritation. Lemon juice should be used when diluted and especially should be protected from sunlight after use. Skin bleaching: Skin bleaching products such as hydroquinone will reduce the number of melanocytes in the skin. So, the result is brighter skin and a more even skin tone. Green tea: Contains a compound called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). A 2015 study found that epigallocatechin gallate - EGCG can prevent the accumulation of melanin in the skin. It works by inhibiting the enzyme needed to make melanin.

Some of them can cause skin irritation, redness, or damage. The ingredients include: hydroperoxide, bleach, ammonia.

The amount of melanin in each person is different and this amount is determined by genetics. You can lighten and remove existing hyperpigmentation, but pigmentation can return. It is not possible to permanently reduce melanin in the skin, but it is necessary to maintain skin lightening methods.
If you try to reduce melanin in your skin, you will face a number of problems such as:
Increased risk of skin damage by the sun. Less melanin means the skin is less likely to be protected from the sun's rays. This increases the risk of wrinkles, uneven texture and pigmentation. Increased risk of skin cancer. A high risk of sun damage also increases the likelihood of skin cancer. Irritable and sensitive skin: redness, itching and contact dermatitis.

It is only possible to reduce melanin in the skin temporarily. In addition, using sunscreen as well as limiting sun exposure will also help reduce melanin and improve skin tone. However, there is no permanent method to reduce melanin, because it is determined by genetic factors. If you want to reduce melanin, it is necessary to consult a dermatologist to be able to choose an appropriate treatment with high efficiency.
If your skin is having problems, you should go to a dermatology department at a reputable medical facility for examination and advice, do not arbitrarily buy medication because it is likely that your skin will be damaged. Irritated by certain compounds without your knowledge.
Vinmec International General Hospital is a high-quality medical facility in Vietnam, with a team of well-trained, specialized and experienced doctors. Full and modern medical equipment imported from the US, UK, Germany, Japan... Facilities are designed according to international standards, the rooms are like a 5-star hotel, bringing to you giving the patient the most comfortable space and environment, helping the treatment to be highly effective.

Reference source: healthline.com