There are many forms of hyperpigmentation from freckles and age spots to a more focused "clumping" of pigmentation otherwise known as melasma. This overproduction of melanin can be triggered by many things including UV exposure, inflammation, acne scarring, skin injury, hormones, pregnancy and even medication such as the pill or thyroxine. Pigmentation occurs naturally in our bodies and decides the colour of our skin, hair and eyes. However when it comes to hyper pigmentation, the most common areas of concern tend to be the face, hands and décolletage as they are generally more exposed to the sun and UV rays. This regular exposure can trigger hyperpigmentation and overtime freckles, solar lentigines and melasma make its way to the surface of the skin and becomes more visible as we age. So how does Hyperpigmentation occur? Hyperpigmenation is produced by melanocytes, our melanin producing skin cells, which are found at the lower layer of the epidermis. These hyperpigmented cells can be diffused (freckles) or focal (melasma). Melanocyte distribution become less diffused as we age and its regulation becomes less controlled by the body causing overproduction and "clumping" to occur. Melanocyte activity is heavily stimulated by UV exposure and the other triggers mentioned previously, resulting in concentrations of cells becoming denser than the surrounding areas and hyperpigmentation is the result.

Cosmelan is suitable for all people and all skin types. There are some contraindication for this treatment which are detailed in the next section however the quick answer is YES, all skin types can be treated with Cosmelan! Ideally and for best results, we want to ensure the skin is prepped correctly to ensure the Cosmelan Peel can penetrate as deeply as possible providing the best result. If you have an advance skincare routine at home which includes exfoliation, serums such as Vitamin A and Vitamin C and hydrating masks, your skin may already be suitable to go into treatment straight away. However, if unsure a Pre Cosmelan Facial in our clinic (or even your local beauty salon) is suggested, and is required 2 weeks prior to the Cosmelan peel OR you can purchase a DIY Home Kit from Skin Radiance to do once a week for two weeks leading up to your Cosmelan treatment. This prepping facial will ensure all the dead skin cells are removed prior and the skin is nice and hydrated to ensure maximum penetration & results of your Cosmelan peel.​ ​ The other benefit about Cosmelan, is people with darker skin such as Asian, African, Hispanic, Indian and Mediterranean finally have a real solution for their pigmentation concerns. Previously, darker skin tones were very limited in treating their pigmentation with ineffective facials, creams or laser treatments which may have initially masked or faded the hyperpigmentation but in most cases, the pigmentation became much worse months down the track. ​ When you undergo the Cosmelan treatment, you will be advised as to how long to leave your facial peel on, anywhere from 8-12 hours and this depends on your Fitzpatrick Skin Type and skin condition. Review the chart below to see what skin type you are to get an estimation as to how long you will be required to leave your Cosmelan Peel mask on however your clinician will be the one to advise you on the day of treatment and reviewing and analysing your skin.

After a thorough consultation, the treatment itself is quick & easy! ​ The skin is thoroughly cleansed and a pre peel solution is wiped over the face to ensure all product and oil is removed from the skin. The treatment peel is then applied and you will be advised as to how long the mask needs to remain on the skin. This is anywhere from 8 - 12 hours.​ ​ This is why our in home service is an absolute winner as the treatment is done in the privacy of your own home. You do not need to worry about driving to and from the clinic or being seen with the mask on by the public.... but it's purely up to you! ​ Below is an image of the treatment mask and how you will need to leave the clinic. We don't want to surprise or shock you on the day. And yes, its not that attractive, so this is why we offer a mobile service. However at Skin Radiance Clinic you at least have the option to be treated in clinic or in the privacy of your own home.

This is where the real magic starts to happen. ​ Day 1 - 2 After the mask is removed, your skin will look and feel like it is sunburnt. This is an intensive treatment and it is expected that you may feel tightness, redness, swelling and heat on the area being treated. This is all normal and to be expected. ​ Day 2 - 3 will be when you start to see some mild to heavy shedding of the skin and is probably the worst day your skin will look and feel. From here, it will then reduce to a milder flaking and last anywhere from up to 7 or 14 days. with a slight pinkness to skin tone expected which may last up to 30 days as the new skin cycle comes in. You will also start to introduce Cosmelan 2 into your home care regime, when advised by your Cosmelan clinician (most probably day 4 onwards) and the use of Cosmelan 2 will continue to assist in further reduction, regulation and removal of hyperpigmentation. This product is provided as part of your package deal and an absolute must to achieve your end results. ​ By the 10-14 day mark the process will be completed, skin tone and colour will be heading back to normal and you will be seeing dramatically reduced pigmentation which will continue to fade with the use of Cosmelan 2 across the coming weeks. ​ Welcome to a clearer looking complexion! ​ Realistically you'll be out of action for 3-7 days (where you may wish to hide at home, or just own it and continue with work and life as you would normally!) ​ Want to see pictures of how your skin make look and feel? Just review our Cosmelan Diary Blog by our own clinician, Linda, Senior Clinician and Owner of Skin Radiance Clinic. This diary blog details the process perfectly as to what you may expect

There are several options available for our Cosmelan treatment, from basic entry level treatment which will get you great result while on a budget to the elite power treatment to optimise the results achieved and enhance the skin and continue to treat your pigmentation for years to come. ​ For detailed information on each of our packages and to find the best option for you just click the link below and scroll through the 4 Cosmelan Packages we have on offer.

It is our recommendation to book a free consultation or call our clinic on 1300 400 680 to ensure we answer any questions or concerns you may have pertaining to the treatment, however if you have read all our information and DO NOT have any contraindications to be treated with Cosmelan, you can book online now by just clicking the link below.