Skin pigmentation is caused by a natural pigment called melanin. Melanin is produced and distributed by melanocytes; a minor population of specialized skin cells found in the basal layer of the epidermis. The melanin is distributed to keratinocytes, which proliferate and move toward the skin surface, giving the skin its characteristic color. Melanin can also be found in hair follicles and is responsible for hair color.
Skin pigmentation involves the following steps: melanocyte activation (when exposed to sunlight), melanogenesis (conversion of tyrosine into melanin), melanosome transfer (from melanocytes to keratinocytes), distribution and color and protection from UV radiation (melanin absorbs and scatters UV radiation).
Melanin is essential for UV protection of the skin. Sun exposure (UV light) triggers the production of melanin and is the main cause of uneven skin pigmentation, often referred to as hyperpigmentation.
Hyperpigmentation is a result of altered melanin production, which causes uneven skin pigmentation. It can result as dark spots or patches on the skin.
Some other signs are uneven skin tone, freckles, melasma, sunspots or age spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation…
Hyperpigmentation can have a significant impact on a person's self esteem and confidence.
Brightening
Skin lightening
Skin whitening
Dark spot decrease
To prove brightening, pigmentation evaluation, skin lightening, skin whitening and dark spot decrease claims we measure the following parameters using the following instruments:
Evaluation of melanin content
Mexameter® MX 18 probe (CK Electronics)
Dermalab (Cortex Technologies)
Callegari SoftPlus (Callegari)
Before / After face imaging
Eve M camera skin analysis
Microcamera SoftPlus - Callegari
Example of hyperpigmentation
Graph visualisation
EVE M camera
Example of pigmentation spots
Efficacy testing protocol is prepared for each product individually with close cooperation with the sponsor. Based on the claims, usage regime and efficacy expectations, we prepare a protocol that is suitable for the type of product and can confirm product efficacy. The studies can be performed over a different time period (from a few days to several weeks or months) depending on the claim and type of measurement.