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What Is Arbutin and HowDoes It Treat Pigmentation?

Arbutin, also known as alpha-arbutin, is the latest in skin-brightening agents. It is an extract of the bearberry plant that works by interfering with the activity of the enzyme tyrosinase, which is needed to produce melanin and pigment in the skin. Arbutin is frequently paired with other ingredients, such as vitamin C, niacinamide, and kojic acid, that also have skin-brightening properties.

Why Choose Dr. Michel Siegel?

Dr. Siegel has extensive experience treating hyperpigmentation, or “brown spots.” He has had great success treating patients that have failed to see improvements when treated elsewhere with lasers, chemical peels, or topical creams.

  • The private, boutique, facial plastic surgery clinic of Dr. Siegel is built around creating a pleasant, seamless, positive treatment experience.
  • Dr. Siegel is known for his ability to create exquisite, natural-looking results in both facial plastic surgery and nonsurgical facial procedures.
  • His practice is focused solely on procedures of the face, and you benefit from his higher level of skill in facial rejuvenation.
  • Dr. Siegel personally delivers all surgical and nonsurgical facial enhancements in his clinic.

What Should I Expect withPigmentation Treatment in Houston?

Arbutin is the new skin-brightening wunderkind in the world of dermatology. It is a plant-derived, anti-oxidant skin brightener with an increasing amount of research attesting to its effectiveness for treating pigmentation. It is gentler and less irritating than other skin-lightening agents, which makes it a good option for people with sensitive skin.

Research on Arbutin

As stated in an abstract published by Research Gate, several vitro and in vivo scientific studies have revealed the anti-melanogenic activity of arbutin, which is useful in pigmentation treatment, and that modifications in the structure of arbutin lead to an increase in that activity.

Researchers also found a lack of significant adverse effects, making arbutin and its derivatives a valuable alternative to hydroquinone.

Pigmentation Treatment FAQ's

A primary active ingredient in Dr. Siegel’s pigmentation treatment is arbutin, a brightening agent that is suitable for darker skin tones, unlike hydroquinone, and causes less irritation that other skin-brightening agents. After a consultation and evaluation of your skin. Dr. Siegel can tell you if you are a good candidate for this treatment.

Yes, be extra vigilant about using sunscreen. UV rays stimulate pigment production in the skin.

Arbutin’s active component is released slowly, so it is gentler and less irritating to the skin than other lightening agents. It is similar in molecular structure to hydroquinone, but without the health risks. Arbutin is an excellent alternative for people with darker skin tones who cannot tolerate hydroquinone, or who choose to avoid it for safety reasons.

Treatments containing arbutin may cause irritation in some cases. If you develop redness, burning, or stinging of the skin, reduce frequency of treatment to every other day.

Dr. Siegel’s special skin mask targets hyperpigmentation from all causes, including:

  • Melasma
  • Acne scars/spots
  • Sun exposure
  • Skin breakouts
  • Hormonal changes after pregnancy, or birth control
  • Minor injuries

Arbutin is typically used in serums, lotions, and treatments in combination with other skin brighteners, such as kojic acid, niacinamide, and vitamin C. You can expect Dr. Siegel’s pigmentation treatment mask containing arbutin to lighten your dark spots and brighten your complexion. To improve on your overall skin complexion, improve skin elasticity, smooth fine wrinkles and decrease pore size, Dr. Siegel may choose to combine his Arbutin mask with an infusion of Retinol.

People travel from across the US and the world for an improved look by Dr. Siegel, but many are right here in the Houston area. We often see patients from Cypress, Spring, Bellaire, Sugar Land, Fulshear, Humble, Katy, and other nearby communities. We also see many patients from other areas in Texas, including Austin, San Antonio, Dallas-Fort Worth, Midland, Odessa, to name a few. Wherever you are, we look forward to helping you achieve your best look.

July 1, 2021 Update:

Our office is open and we are following the recommended guidelines for maximum safety.

  • To make this transition as safe as possible, and to comply with physical distancing, we will be limiting the number of people in the waiting room to only one person.
  • To prevent having multiple people in the waiting room, we will space out appointments.
  • To minimize personal contact please be punctual for your appointment.
  • Please be on time for your appointment. If you are early, please wait in your car. If you are running late please call the office at 832-900-4818, so we can make proper arrangements.
  • For new patients, please fill out all your new intake forms at home. We will send you a link for registration when you make an appointment.
  • Patients must wear a mask that covers the nose and mouth when in the waiting room or walking back to the exam room.
  • If you are wearing gloves, please remove them when you arrive, we will provide you with hand sanitizer.

Please contact our office with any questions you have!

-Dr. Siegel & Staff

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