Did you know that hyperpigmentation is more than just a skin concern?
Hyperpigmentation is a complex interplay of biology, environment and lifestyle.
Does excess pigment on your face affect you?
Are you experiencing brown spots on your face, forehead, or cheeks?
Are you suffering from brown spots that are possibly related to acne?
Hyperpigmentation is a common, usually harmless condition in which patches of skin become darker in color than the normal surrounding areas of the skin. This results from an excess pigmentation, or production of melanin in the skin.
Hyperpigmentation ranges from small localized spots to large areas and are usually found on the hands, face or areas with more frequent sun exposure. These spots are most often referred to as age spots, liver spots, sun spots, or freckles. Dark skin patches can become darker or more pronounced when skin is exposed to sunlight.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) occurs after skin trauma, or inflammation, such as acne, eczema, injuries - or even bug bites.
Hyperpigmentation can also be the result of hormonal shifts, acne, genetics, stress, side effects of laser treatments, or skin irritation from certain prescription drugs.
Melasma is similar in appearance but affects a larger area and is most often associated with hormonal changes. Pregnancy can trigger an overproduction of melanin that may cause the “mask of pregnancy.”
Melasma can be challenging to treat. Occasionally, women taking oral birth control pills can develop melasma due to the influence of estrogen and the hormonal shifts experienced.
Now, you may be asking, what are my treatment options?
Since pigmentation is complicated, and hyperpigmentation affects the deepest parts of the skin, it can be very difficult to treat, especially if it's been present for a long time. The success of your treatment is based on skin type, tolerance, and how the skin has been protected from the sun's rays.
A strict sun protection routine is required if hyperpigmentation is to be properly treated. Without diligent SPF protection post-treatment, hyperpigmentation is very likely to return - even after a successful treatment.
The good news is that for those who are motivated to protect themselves from the sun, treatments can often bring the results you're seeking. Hyperpigmentation of most forms improves over the course of a several months, assuming hormones are not playing an ongoing role.
Treatment Options:
BBL Photofacial or Halo Pro Treatments
Using topical products with ingredients such as retinol, glycolic acid or kojic acid
Addressing and balancing hormone levels
Chemical peels, in conjunction with at-home maintenance
Proper SPF protection
Contact Love Dermatology to find out how our skilled and caring professionals can help address your hyperpigmentation skin concerns. We're here for you!
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