Hyperpigmentation
Lafayette Parish – Baton Rouge and Lake Charles, Louisiana Dermatology and Medical Spa
What is hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation, or sun damage, is abnormal or excessive deposits of pigment (melanin) in the skin. It is also called “sun damage”.
What are some factors that contribute to the formation of hyperpigmentation?
- UV light
- Chemical (industrial chemicals or chemical peeling agents)
- Local infection
- Hormones
- Drugs
- Acne
- Genetic abnormalities
What are some common hyperpigmentation conditions?
Freckles. Freckles are tan to pale brown spots on the skin with poorly defined borders.
Solar Lentigo. Solar lentigos are brown areas on the skin that appear only after intense short term sun exposure or ongoing cumulative sun exposure. (sun damage, age spots, “liver spots”)
Melasma. Melasma appears as blotchy brown patches with an irregular shape on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip and neck. Frequently, this condition occurs during pregnancy, menopause, and when taking hormones or oral contraceptives.
Post Inflammatory Discoloration (from chemical peel agents). Aggressive chemical peel agents may result in uneven coloration of the skin. This form of hyperpigmentation can leave areas of discoloration on the skin with irregular shapes.
POSSIBLE TREATMENT OPTIONS DEPENDING ON DR. HUBBELL’S DIAGNOSIS:
Fractional Laser Resurfacing
PhotoRejuvenation
Chemical Peels
Obagi® Skin Care Products
Tri-Luma
