Uneven skin pigmentation can be stressful and, at times, a sign of an underlying medical condition. To better understand your condition and treat your hyperpigmentation properly, contact Borealis Dermatology to help reduce dark spots and help clear up your skin.

What is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is a condition where parts of your skin become darker in pigment and are usually harmless. They can come in small patches or cover larger areas. There are several types of hyperpigmentation, each with its own causes. The main symptom with hyperpigmentation is dark patches on the skin in varying colors like brown, black, gray, red, or pink. 

Did you know…

Although hyperpigmentation is usually harmless to your health, there are some cases that indicate underlying medical conditions, such as Addison’s Disease, vitiligo, or ochronosis. This is why seeing a dermatologist is crucial in diagnosing the cause of your hyperpigmentation. Your provider will discuss with you the most appropriate treatment for you according to the type of hyperpigmentation you have.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation can be caused by numerous factors, leading to different types of hyperpigmentation:

• Melasma: Melasma is often caused by hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy. This condition usually appears along the stomach and face, but can appear anywhere along the body.
• Sunspots: Age spots or liver spots are a common form of hyperpigmentation caused by excessive sun exposure over time. They usually appear along the hands, face, and arms, and are harmless.
• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation: This occurs after an injury or inflammation to the skin. One of the most common causes of this PIH is acne.

How is Hyperpigmentation treated?

Because of the various causes and types of hyperpigmentation, seeking professional evaluation is important to properly diagnose and treat it. 

Some of the treatments we offer are:

• Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy freezes an area of tissue with liquid nitrogen, causing the area of the skin to blister and peel off to promote healthy, new skin growth. 
• Chemical Peels: Chemical peels remove the top layer of skin with different chemical solutions, allowing the skin to grow back evenly and smoother
• Fractional Skin Resurfacing: Fractional laser works with tiny light-energy beams to treat age-related blemishes.
• Laser Treatments: Other types of laser treatments, such as intense pulsed light or pulsed-dye lasers, can treat hyperpigmentation spots as well as fine lines and wrinkles.
• Prescription Medications: Medicated creams or gels, like hydroquinone or azelaic acid, can be applied to the skin daily to treat and prevent hyperpigmentation.

How can I prevent Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation can easily be prevented through proper skin care precautions, such as avoiding the sunlight for long periods and using sunscreen with a minimum of SPF 30. If you are suspicious of certain spots on your skin, see a dermatologist for early detection and proper treatment.

Our providers can professionally examine the pigmented areas of your concern and determine a treatment plan best fit for you. Borealis Dermatology offers two convenient locations to provide various treatments for our patients in the Queens and Long Island areas. You can experience the highest medical and aesthetic expertise available through our treatment options by visiting our clinic.