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| DANGERS OF ELECTROLOGY |
TOPICS |
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Changes
in Pigmentation
Another
poor result seen from electrolysis is hyperpigmentation, or darkening of
the skin. This darkening usually takes the form of small, rounded areas,
looking much like what is referred to as "age spots."
Hyperpigmentation is usually associated with people with a darker
complexion, those who readily tan, and those who are often exposed to
the sun. Dark skinned races are particularly prone to darkening in
pigmentation.
Within
those susceptible individuals, hyperpigmentation problems appear to be
particularly associated with excessive treatment sessions, but also with
skin inflammation, such as in-grown hairs, acne, folliculitis or
other skin irritations. Light skinned individuals are less likely to
develop hyperpigmentation.
While the
darkened areas are sometimes reported to be permanent, the likelihood is
they will remain for a long duration — usually for several
months. But there are ways to lighten these darkened areas and
reduce the time needed for their disappearance, and preventative
measures as well.
For
prevention in susceptible individuals:
- Avoid
lengthy sessions that do not include specific treatment based trauma
prevention. See alleviating
after-effects.
- Avoid
sun exposure, particularly following treatment.
- Avoid
strenuous activity (work-related, sports, athletics, etc.) for several
days following treatment where perspiration and pollutants/contaminants
may inflame the treated area.
For
treatment in affected areas:
- Dermatological
treatment for hyperpigmentation usually consists of prescription
medications such as Solaquin or Eldopaque which contain the active
ingredient hydroquinone 4%. The same active ingredient,
hydroquinone, is found in 2% concentrations in over-the-counter
"fade creams" and may be acceptable for less severe
cases.
The
mirror condition, hypopigmentation or the lightening of the skin, is
usually uncommon and when it does occur, the skin's natural color
usually returns within a matter of weeks.
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