Pigmentation Treatment — Remove Dark Spots, Melasma & Tanning

Skin pigmentation disorders are among the most common skin complaints in Punjab. The strong Punjab sun, combined with pollution, hormonal changes, and use of substandard "fairness" creams, leads to widespread issues of melasma, dark spots, tanning, and uneven skin tone. Dr. Nagpal's clinic offers scientifically proven pigmentation treatments for lasting results.

Types of Pigmentation — Understanding Your Condition

1. Melasma (Mask of Pregnancy)

Brown patches on cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. Extremely common in Punjab's women. Causes:

• Hormonal changes — pregnancy, contraceptive pills
• Sun exposure (major trigger)
• Genetic predisposition
• Thyroid disorders

Key fact: Melasma is one of the most challenging pigmentation conditions to treat — it requires combination therapy and strict sun protection for long-term management.

2. Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)

Dark marks left after acne, chickenpox, insect bites, or any skin injury. Very common in Indian skin types which are prone to hyperpigmentation after inflammation.

3. Sun Tan and Solar Lentigines

Generalized darkening from sun exposure and flat brown spots ("sun spots" or "age spots") on face, hands, arms.

4. Periorbital Pigmentation (Dark Circles)

Dark circles under eyes — can be due to pigmentation, blood vessel visibility, or structural causes.

5. Freckles and Flat Moles

Small, flat brown spots — often genetic, worsen with sun exposure.

Pigmentation Treatment Options at Dr. Nagpal's Clinic

1. Laser Toning (Q-Switch Nd:YAG)

The most effective treatment for most types of pigmentation. The laser selectively targets melanin (pigment) without damaging surrounding skin.

• Sessions: 4–8 sessions, 2–4 weeks apart
• Downtime: Nil — mild redness for a few hours
• Best for: Melasma, dark spots, tanning, freckles
• Results: Progressive brightening with each session

2. Chemical Peels

Glycolic, lactic, kojic, or salicylic acid peels exfoliate the pigmented layer, revealing brighter skin underneath.

• Superficial to medium depth peels
• Monthly sessions for 3–6 months
• Excellent for dull skin, mild pigmentation, acne marks
• Mild peeling for 3–7 days

3. Glutathione IV Drip

Intravenous glutathione — a powerful antioxidant that inhibits melanin production throughout the body. Works from inside out.

• Weekly sessions for 6–8 weeks
• Improves overall skin brightness and tone
• Antioxidant benefits for general skin health

4. Topical Depigmentation Therapy

Prescription-strength creams used alongside in-clinic treatments:

• Hydroquinone 2–4% (under medical supervision)
• Tranexamic acid — especially effective for melasma
• Kojic acid combinations
• Retinoids — accelerate cell turnover
• Arbutin, niacinamide — maintenance therapies

5. Microneedling with Brightening Serums

Vitamin C, tranexamic acid, or kojic acid serums delivered deep into skin via microneedling channels for enhanced depigmentation.

Treatment Protocol for Melasma — Dr. Nagpal's Approach

Sun Protection — The Most Important Step

Without sun protection, no pigmentation treatment will give lasting results. Dr. Nagpal's sun protection protocol for Punjab:

• Use SPF 50+ broad-spectrum sunscreen every single day — even on cloudy days and in winter
• Reapply every 2 hours outdoors
• Wear wide-brim hats, scarves, and UV-protective clothing when outdoors
• Avoid sun from 10 AM – 4 PM when UV is strongest
• Use physical sunscreen (zinc oxide/titanium dioxide) for sensitive skin