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Your Insider Guide to Skin Whitening and Treating Pigmentation

TL:DR Summary

• Skin whitening and treating pigmentation are cosmetic goals for many people who want to improve their skin appearance and reduce the signs of aging, sun damage, or other skin conditions.
• Skin pigmentation is the result of melanin production by melanocytes which are specialized cells in the skin. Melanin is a natural pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes. It also protects the skin from harmful UV rays.
• Skin pigmentation can be affected by various factors such as genetics, hormones, inflammation, injury, medication, or disease. Some common types of pigmentation disorders are melasma, freckles, age spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, and vitiligo.
• Skin whitening agents work by reducing the presence of melanin pigment in the skin. They can be natural or synthetic and can act by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase that is involved in melanin synthesis, blocking the transfer of melanin to the skin cells, or destroying the melanin granules.
• Some examples of skin whitening agents are hydroquinone, azelaic acid, kojic acid, vitamin C, arbutin, licorice extract, and niacinamide. They can be found in various products such as creams, serums, lotions, masks, or peels. They can also be combined with other ingredients such as antioxidants, exfoliants, or sunscreen for better results.

Introduction:

Welcome to your insider guide to skin whitening and treating pigmentation in Singapore (or anywhere else in the world)! From the many different products available in the market to the advice of skincare experts, this guide will cover all you need to know about how to choose the right product for your skin type and concerns. Whether you’re looking for a quick fix or a long-term solution, this guide from Wellaholic has something for everyone.

History of Skin Whitening

European royalty was recognized to have made use of arsenic to bleach their skin completely back to the 1500s. Queen Elizabeth I herself was a follower of the technique in order to maintain her pearly-white skin. Skin whitening is still commonly used in almost every continent on the planet. In West Africa, approximately 70 percent of women perhaps utilize skin lightening cream. Today, skin bleaching is a multi-billion-dollar appeal market, with new trending beauty terms such as brighter skin, glass skin, clearer skin or natural skin tone. 

What is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is when dark areas form on your skin over time. Sometimes skin dims due to age, an injury, or melasma– which is a pigmentation condition. These patches or dark spots result from excess melanin production, which can be caused by everything from acne scars and sun damage to hormone fluctuations. Hyperpigmentation is a common, generally harmless, and also often frustrating problem that a number of us wish to eliminate promptly.

Are Skin Whitening Creams Effective?

The Dangers of Skin Whitening Creams

Let’s face it, we all want to look our best. But when it comes to skin whitening or lightening lotions, it’s important to be careful. While major appeal brands such as Nivea, Lancôme, and Neutrogena market these sorts of products, many skin whitening or lightening creams can be hazardous, especially if they contain bleaching agents.

At Wellaholic, we believe in the natural beauty of every skin tone. That’s why we caution against using outlawed skin lighteners that contain dangerous ingredients such as mercury or steroids. In fact, these ingredients have been banned by HSA as they may harm the skin in the long-term.

The Risks of Using Outlawed Skin Lighteners

Using outlawed skin lighteners can have serious negative effects on your skin and overall health. Some of these risks include:

• Inflammation
• Burning
• Irritation
• Scarring
• Hyperpigmentation
• Thinning of the skin
• Organ damage
• Skin cancer

What to Avoid When Choosing a Skin Whitening Cream

If you are currently using a bleaching cream to treat dark skin tones, it’s important to be aware of what to avoid when choosing a skin whitening cream. Products that contain ingredients such as hydroquinone, mercury, or steroids can have serious negative effects on your health, including:

• Increased risk of skin cancer
• Liver and kidney damage
• Infections
• Depression
• Psychosis

And remember, it’s important to avoid exposing yourself to the sun after using a skin whitening cream, as this can increase your likelihood of developing discoloration and skin cancer. At Wellaholic, we believe that your natural beauty is something to be celebrated and embraced. Choose natural ingredients for a healthy, even skin tone.

Wellaholic’s PTT with AfterGlow (Whitening)

Wellaholic’s PTT with AfterGlow comes with either the whitening or the hydrating option, followed by our AfterGlow Red Light treatment. Skin whitening agents work by reducing the presence of melanin pigment in the skin. The whitening treatment uses dipotassium glycyrrhizinate which inhibits tyrosinase activity and melanin production. Study has shown that dipotassium glycyrrhizinate inhibits tyrosinase activity and melanin production. It is a potential skin whitening agent that prevents skin pigmentation and improves skin tone, leading to fair skin. Further research has shown that dipotassium glycyrrhizinate has anti-inflammatory property. It helps to alleviate the skin redness and irritation symptoms common to various diseases such as rosacea and psoriasis. Moreover, its oil-regulating properties inhibit the secretion of excessive skin oil from the sebaceous glands.

Red light therapy, also known as photobiomodulation, uses healing natural light to help your body produce more energy and regenerate your skin. Red light therapy is also well-known as a powerful natural inflammation relief tool, and that makes a huge difference for the inflammatory kind of hyperpigmentation!

Is Laser Toning Effective for Fairer Skin?

Laser Toning is based on the principle of subcellular selective photothermolysis. In this, the laser emits a specific wavelength of light that is well-absorbed by a particular chromophore being treated. This results in a reduction of epidermal melanocytes wherein the melanocytes remain intact, and only melanosomes are destroyed. The traditional methods lead to the destruction of pigment-containing cells in response to which inflammation follows and results in re-pigmentation or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). The heat generated via laser is minimum, thus reduces the chances of recurrence. Laser toning can be effective against melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, dark spots, freckles, dark circles, etc. 

Nevertheless, laser toning will require doctors with experience and skill. Otherwise, there will be no results from laser toning. Also, if the laser is set to be too strong, it may cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) and confetti hypopigmentation. These can take months to years to resolve. 

Is Microneedling Effective for Pigmentation?

Hyper-pigmentation is when there is a darkening of the skin. Microneedling, using a needle pen, can help to reduce this hyper-pigmentation by breaking up the pigment below the skin surface. This  collagen induction therapy (CID) another word for microneedling, can easily aid the skin without removing or damaging the epidermis. Several treatments are required along with some skin lightening products and your skin tone will be evened out.

Unfortunately melanin is not always produced evenly, especially in individuals with darker skin. Uneven/excessive melanin production can also be the result of skin trauma – sunburns, acne, cuts, bug bites etc. If the hyperpigmentation resides in the epidermis, it responds very well to microneedling and even acid peels. The problem is if the pigmentation is in the dermis, deeper part of the skin, it wont respond to chemical peels. This hyperpigmentation is not to deep for microneedling but it will take more microneedling treatments to resolve.

It is extremely important to avoid excessive sun exposure and ALWAYS wear sunscreen when trying to treat hyper pigmentation. Ignoring this advice may lead to unsatisfactory results and even a reappearance of the pigmentation.

Wellaholic’s Microneedling for Face and Neck

Safe, minimally invasive, and effective as an aesthetic treatment, Wellaholic’s microneedling is ideal for several different dermatologic conditions including acne and other scars for all skin types. Microneedling can treat dark skin patches or blotchy skin by using tiny needles to create micro channels to induce cell turnover and collagen production. Microneedling is minimal with little or no downtime. It is a valuable alternative to more invasive procedures such as laser skin resurfacing and deep chemical peeling.

• Hyperpigmentation occurs due to uneven production of melanin throughout the layer of skin.
• This irregularity in the generation of melanin can be caused by acne, cuts, sunburn, etc.
• These dark spots are very stubborn and become more pronounced with time instead of fading away naturally.
• The reason behind this is that the skin stops producing new cells as a person ages.
• Microneedling injects tiny needles (up to 36 at a time) into the skin to create micro channels.
• The old layer of skin is replaced by new collagen or skin which is free of any spots or marks.
• About 4 to 6 sessions with a gap of 2 to 4 weeks per session are required for the most effective pigmentation removal.
• For sensitive skin, it is recommended to start with a lower needle depth, and then gradually increase it over time. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Gold RF Microneedling Facial by Wellaholic

Gold RF Microneedling is a revolutionary skin treatment that delivers dramatic anti-ageing results by combining fractional radiofrequency (RF) with microneedling to effectively treat acne, acne scar, pigmentation, stretch marks & enlarged pores. Gold RF Microneedling can also lift saggy skin and revitalise dull and uneven skin tone.

What is Gold RF Microneedling Facial Treatment?

If you are looking for an effective method to clear your acne scars, wrinkles or pigmentation, or if you are looking to tighten saggy skin such as jowl lines and nasolabial folds without any invasive surgery, then Gold RF Microneedling is the right treatment for you. Gold RF Microneedling combines two scientifically-proven techniques, microneedling and fractional radiofrequency (RF) to treat a variety of skin conditions. 

• ⭐ Uses Up to 64 Micro Needles. Gold RF Microneedling: Ultimate anti-aging treatment with 64 needles to penetrate the skin, release RF energy, and trigger collagen and elastin production for a clearer complexion and firmer skin
• ⭐ Safe and Minimally Invasive. Gold RF Microneedling is a safe, minimally invasive.
• ⭐ Effectively Treats Acne Scars, Pigmentation & Wrinkles. Extremely effective aesthetic treatment for treating acne scars, pigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles.
• ⭐ Stimulates Collagen Growth. Gold RF Microneedling stimulates collagen and elastin for new, youthful-looking skin.
• ⭐ Positive Clinical Results. Gold RF Microneedling is clinically proven to be more effective than microneedling or radiofrequency alone.

What are the Benefits of Gold RF Microneedling Facial?

Gold RF Microneedling has all the skin resurfacing benefits of traditional microneedling, but with the added technology of insulated needles that deliver RF energy to the skin, creating new microchannels linking your skin’s layers.

• ⭐ Create Tiny Wounds to Replace Skin Cells. Gold RF Microneedling create tiny wounds in your skin to prompt your body to replace old skin cells with healthy new ones.
• ⭐ RF Encourages Collagen Growth. RF energy heats deep layers of your dermis to encourage collagen growth and tissue tightening, leading to visibly healthier skin that continues to improve over the following months.
• ⭐ Faster Cell Turnover. Gold RF Microneedling leads to faster cell turnover and quicker results than traditional microneedling.
• ⭐ Shorter Recovery Time. Gold RF Microneedling has a shorter recovery time as compared to traditional microneedling, laser resurfacing treatments and chemical peels. There is also less risk of hyperpigmentation.

Pricing of Facial Treatments by Wellaholic

• 💎 Price Transparency. Wellaholic offers pricing transparency by publishing and updating all prices on our website.
• 💎 Flexible Per-Session or Unlimited Plans. Customers can choose from unlimited monthly facial plans for added cost savings, or per-session plans.
• 💎 Mix and Match Easily. Wellaholic’s facial plan prices are divided into different categories for easy selection.
• 💎 No Price Shocks. Customers can expect to pay only for the treatments provided instead of being surprised by additional fees or charges at the end of their facial session.

Why Wellaholic is One of the Best Facial Providers in Singapore?

• ✅ Leading Facial Aesthetic Chain in Singapore. Wellaholic is a leading facial and aesthetic chain in Singapore that is highly sought after by customers.
• ✅ Quality & Safe Treatments. Wellaholic is committed to providing quality and safe treatments with experienced staff.
• ✅ Wide Range of Facial Treatments. Wellaholic offers a wide range of facial treatments for various skin concerns, and using different technologies such as microneedling, RF, Elight, IPL and mesotherapy.
• ✅ Trained & Experienced Consultants. All treatments are performed by trained professionals who understand the skincare needs of both female and male customers.
• ✅ Advanced Facial Technology. Advanced facial technology is used to ensure a safe experience with no downtime or discomfort during the entire process.
• ✅ Most Affordable Provider. Wellaholic provides competitive pricing for its treatments which makes it one of the most affordable providers in Singapore.

Reason 1: Wellaholic Offers Comprehensive Facial Services and Expertise

Wellaholic offers many types of facial services for your facial and skin needs. Our facials can be broken down into the following categories:

• ✅ WellaFacial™ 3X Ultimate Facial Plan
  • Meticulously crafted to help our customers embrace a youthful and radiant appearance through top-tier treatments.
  • We let customers choose any three treatments from our selection more than 10 exceptional options (Facial and Teeth Whitening categories).
  • Guarantees access to high-end treatments at a surprisingly affordable price, offering an exceptional blend of luxury and value
• ✅ FirmTox™ Needle-Free Botox Alternative Facial
  • Needle-free alternative to traditional botox, achieving comparable results without the associated pain
  • Unique blend of Argireline and Matrixyl peptides work to inhibit facial muscle movements, smoothing out wrinkles
  • Users can expect to see a significant reduction in the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
  • FirmTox™’s potent ingredient blend promises exceptional results, revealing a radiant, youthful complexion.
• ✅ WellaBoost™ Skin Booster
  • Non-invasive facial skin booster which is injection-free.
  • Combines two different technologies.
  • Infuses the skin with 4 different types of facial serums.
  • Helps to promote the increased hydration, collagen production, skin regeneration and healing
• ✅ Gold RF Microneedling / Microneedling
  • Revolutionary skin treatment that delivers dramatic anti-ageing results.
  • Combines fractional radiofrequency (RF) with microneedling.
  • Effectively treats acne, acne scar, pigmentation, stretch marks & enlarged pores.
  • Lifts saggy skin and revitalises dull and uneven skin tone.
• ✅ LED Cell Regen Facial
  • Uses different wavelengths to target the skin for various beneficial effects.
  • Able to improve skin elasticity, produce collagen, minimise blemishes and pimples.
  • Soothes aggravated skin and even reduce scarring.
• ✅ Elight Monthly Facial
  • Six-step technology facial backed by scientific research
  • Incorporates various technology treatments (RF, IPL, Diamond Peel microdermabrasion, LED Cell Regeneration, Retinol, REFA facial massage, etc.)
  • Designed as an affordable unlimited monthly package with weekly visits.
  • Brings out the best consistent results in flawless, younger-looking skin.
• ✅ RF V-Lift Facial
  • Uses RF energy to heat tissue and stimulate sub-dermal collagen production.
  • Reduces appearance of fine lines and loose skin.
  • Induces tissue re-modelling and production of new collagen and elastin.
  • Provides an alternative to facelift and other cosmetic surgeries.
• ✅ Diamond Peel Facial
  • Non-invasive and mechanical procedure using diamond bits.
  • Helps to remove dead skin cells, dirt and excess oil on the skin surface.
  • Improves the appearance of skin, by revealing younger and radiant skin underneath in an instant.

Reason 2: Wellaholic Has Over 50 Awards and 2000 Genuine Customer Reviews

• ✅ Over 50 Awards. Wellaholic’s WellaSmooth and SHR Hair Removal have been recognized by top beauty publications such as Daily Vanity, Beauty Insider, and Tropika Club Magazine, earning prestigious awards from 2018 to 2023.
• ✅ Over 2000 Verified Customer Reviews. Wellaholic has over 2000 verified positive reviews from our customers in Singapore and beyond.
• ✅ Verifiable Reviews. The reviews are verified and positive, which indicates the high level of customer satisfaction (see reviews below).
• ✅ Over 50% Repeat Customers. More than 50% of Wellaholic’s customers are repeat and recurring customers.

Reason 3: It’s Easy to Book an Appointment at Wellaholic

• ✅ Open 361 Days Per Year. Wellaholic’s 8 outlets are open 361 days a year, including public holidays, so that customers can easily book an appointment.
• ✅ No Queues. All appointments are booked in advanced to prevent the need to queue and wait unnecessarily during peak hours.
• ✅ Easy Online Booking. Customers can conveniently book and reschedule appointments online or via the booking app.
• ✅ No Extra Cost for Choosing Consultant. Customers can select their preferred consultant without having to pay any additional fees.