Treating Hyperpigmentation
Many individuals seek treatment from a cosmetic dermatologist to correct their mottled, uneven complexions. Known as hyperpigmentation, unwanted dark spots are formed by the production of extra melanin in the skin. There are three major causes for this condition.
Ultraviolet radiation from solar exposure or the use of indoor tanning beds is the most common cause of brown spots. These spots are also referred to as also freckles, age spots, lentigines, liver spots or sun spots.
Pregnancy and the use of birth control pills can cause brown patches to appear on the skin. This condition, known as melasma, causes dark skin discoloration around the upper cheeks, upper lip, forehead, and chin. Although melasma is mostly seen in women in their reproductive years, men can also experience this condition. Individuals from Latino, Asian, and Middle Eastern descent have higher incidences of melasma.
Acne scars, burns and other types of inflammation can result in darkened marks on the skin. This syndrome is known as Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH). People with deeper pigment in the skin are especially susceptible to developing PIH.
A properly trained board certified dermatologist can recommend the safest and most appropriate method for treating various forms of hyperpigmentation.
Under your dermatologist’s watchful eye, topical prescription creams can help correct brown spots on the skin. For example, bleaching creams containing hydroquinone can gradually fade darker areas of the skin. Retinoids, such as tretinoin, can also help even out skin tone.
Chemical peels remove superficial layers of damaged, hyperpigmented skin. Melasma patients have seen successful results with the Melanage peel, which is offered at Derick Dermatology.
Laser technology can also correct some forms of hyperpigmentation. Specific lasers are recommended for different skin types and conditions. An experienced dermatologist is best equipped to recommend the proper laser device for treating each individual case in the safest and most effective manner.
It is also highly important to prevent further sun damage and the formation of new sun spots or skin cancers by regularly applying broad-spectrum sunscreen (UVA and UVB protection) to all sun-exposed areas of the face and body.
Contact Derick Dermatology today to arrange for a consultation to discuss suitable treatment options.
Ultraviolet radiation from solar exposure or the use of indoor tanning beds is the most common cause of brown spots. These spots are also referred to as also freckles, age spots, lentigines, liver spots or sun spots.
Pregnancy and the use of birth control pills can cause brown patches to appear on the skin. This condition, known as melasma, causes dark skin discoloration around the upper cheeks, upper lip, forehead, and chin. Although melasma is mostly seen in women in their reproductive years, men can also experience this condition. Individuals from Latino, Asian, and Middle Eastern descent have higher incidences of melasma.
Acne scars, burns and other types of inflammation can result in darkened marks on the skin. This syndrome is known as Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH). People with deeper pigment in the skin are especially susceptible to developing PIH.
A properly trained board certified dermatologist can recommend the safest and most appropriate method for treating various forms of hyperpigmentation.
Under your dermatologist’s watchful eye, topical prescription creams can help correct brown spots on the skin. For example, bleaching creams containing hydroquinone can gradually fade darker areas of the skin. Retinoids, such as tretinoin, can also help even out skin tone.
Chemical peels remove superficial layers of damaged, hyperpigmented skin. Melasma patients have seen successful results with the Melanage peel, which is offered at Derick Dermatology.
Laser technology can also correct some forms of hyperpigmentation. Specific lasers are recommended for different skin types and conditions. An experienced dermatologist is best equipped to recommend the proper laser device for treating each individual case in the safest and most effective manner.
It is also highly important to prevent further sun damage and the formation of new sun spots or skin cancers by regularly applying broad-spectrum sunscreen (UVA and UVB protection) to all sun-exposed areas of the face and body.
Contact Derick Dermatology today to arrange for a consultation to discuss suitable treatment options.