What Skin Irregularities Cause Hyperpigmentation?

Some forms of hyperpigmentation – like freckles – are present from birth, while others appear later in life. Even those dark spots that we’re born with can become worse over time due to a variety of factors. Knowing the potential risk factors for (and causes of) hyperpigmentation can help patients to avoid certain skin changes and keep their complexion looking its best. Even when areas of hyperpigmentation do appear, certain skin treatments can help to restore a more even skin tone. At Brentwood Skin Clinic in Nashville, TN, board-certified medical dermatologist Dr. Austin Mitchell is committed to helping patients look their best and feel more confident about their complexion than ever with the most cutting-edge treatments and technologies available today, including laser hyperpigmentation treatment. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at what may be causing your hyperpigmentation, what treatment options you have, and what results you can expect.

What is hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation, which refers to a darkening of the skin, can manifest itself in many ways. Some of the most common types of hyperpigmentation include:

• Freckles
• Age spots
• Dark spots
• Sun spots
• Melasma
• Uneven skin tone

What causes hyperpigmentation?

Technically speaking, skin irregularities associated with hyperpigmentation are caused by increased production of melanin. This pigment, which is responsible for giving skin its “normal” color, can produce visible areas of darkness when present in higher-than-normal amounts. Some of the most common causes of increased melanin production (and ultimately hyperpigmentation) include:

• Sun exposure (sun damage)
• Hormone fluctuation
• Pregnancy
• Certain underlying conditions
• Certain medications
• Certain topical products or treatments

How can hyperpigmentation be treated?

Topical products designed to fade or lighten the skin may be partially effective in reducing the appearance of hyperpigmented areas, but they do not treat the underlying cause of hyperpigmentation: increased melanin production. For patients looking for a more effective, reliable, and long-lasting treatment for dark spots or an uneven skin tone, laser hyperpigmentation treatment can be a fantastic solution.

How does laser hyperpigmentation treatment work?

There are several laser treatments that can help to reduce the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation, most of which work by targeting and destroying melanin-producing cells, destroying damaged layers of skin, and encouraging the generation of new, healthy skin cells. During your initial consultation for laser hyperpigmentation treatment in Nashville, TN, Dr. Mitchell will conduct a thorough skin assessment to evaluate the nature and severity of your concerns and to determine if you are a good candidate for treatment. Based on these findings, Dr. Mitchell will recommend the most appropriate laser treatment for you. The precise details of your treatment – including how many sessions may be needed, how long each session will take, whether any downtime is required, and others – will depend on which specific technology and treatment are used.

Generally speaking, patients can expect long-term results after laser hyperpigmentation treatment. However, it is important for patients to understand that additional dark spots can appear due to sun exposure, future hormone changes, and other unforeseen circumstances. To preserve your laser hyperpigmentation results for as long as possible, be sure to limit sun exposure, wear sunscreen, and consult with your provider about any medical risk factors for hyperpigmentation you may have.

Give your complexion the boost it deserves with laser hyperpigmentation treatment in Nashville, TN

If dark spots and other skin irregularities are making you feel self-conscious about your complexion, you may be excited to learn more about laser hyperpigmentation treatment. Take the first step toward loving your look by scheduling a one-on-one consultation for laser hyperpigmentation treatment at Brentwood Skin Clinic in Nashville, TN with distinguished board-certified medical dermatologist Dr. Austin Mitchell today.