Acupuncture for Pigmentation
Skin cells produce a substance called melanin, which gives it its color. It is possible for skin cells to produce too much melanin if they are damaged or unhealthy. This darkening can be caused by clumps of melanin. Your skin becomes darker if your body produces too much melanin. All of these factors can darken your skin, including pregnancy, Addison’s disease, and sun exposure.
A lack of melanin results in lighter skin. The condition of vitiligo causes patches of light skin.
Albinism is a genetic condition that affects the skin. A person who has albinism may have no color, lighter than normal skin color, or patches of missing pigment. It is also possible to have lighter skin due to infections, blisters, and burns.
- Age spots, also called liver spots or solar lentigines, commonly appear on the face, hands, or other exposed areas of the body that are exposed to the sun.
- The forehead, face, and stomach are commonly affected by post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- Anywhere on the body can develop melasma, also called chloasma or “the mask of pregnancy”.
Traditional Chinese Medicine has long been hailed for its ability to promote holistic health and well-being, and acupuncture is among the many modalities that are widely used in this system of medicine. Acupuncture is an effective method for treating pigmentation around the mouth or other parts of the body. It involves inserting acupuncture needles at strategic body locations, either alone or with the application of herbs and substances, to break down localized deposits of melanin that cause discoloration. While acupuncture may take longer than some other forms of pigmentation removal like laser treatments, it is generally considered a safe, low-risk option that can result in balanced skin tones and naturally glowing skin.
