Hyperpigmentation, including melasma, dark spots or “age” spots, is a frequent skin concern that our patients share with us. The culprit behind the discoloration is our skin’s pigment-producing powerhouse: melanin. Melanin is a natural pigment responsible for skin, hair, and eye color. However, when our skin is exposed to various triggers, it can lead to irregular melanin production and distribution, resulting in patches of darker skin.
What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
UV Exposure: Prolonged sun exposure without adequate protection can cause damage to the skin surface and overproduction of melanin. This often leads to the formation of sunspots, freckles, and uneven skin tone.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH): After a battle with acne, wounds, or skin inflammation, the skin’s natural response is to produce excess melanin in the affected area. This results in darker patches, which can linger long after the initial issue has resolved.
Hormones: Pregnancy, birth control, and natural hormonal fluctuations can trigger melanin production. Melasma, a specific type of hyperpigmentation, often occurs due to hormonal shifts.
Aging: As we age, our skin’s ability to regulate melanin becomes less efficient, leading to the development of age spots or lentigines.
Unveiling Glowing Skin:
Your path to even skin starts here!
Sunscreen: Your Skin’s Best Friend
Not surprising coming from Board Certified Dermatologists, the first step in your journey to even skin tone is a high-quality, broad-spectrum sunscreen. Shield your skin from harmful UV rays to prevent further melanin production and protect existing melanin from becoming more pronounced. Our favorites include mineral sunscreens from MD Solar Sciences and Alastin Hydratint. Find a variety of choices in our Brilliant Boutique.
Skincare with Precision: Topical Treatments
Invest in skincare products that contain ingredients like vitamin C, niacinamide, melatonin, tranexamic acid and alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). These ingredients can regulate melanin production, gently exfoliate the skin, and promote cellular turnover.
Professional Treatments: Our Favorite Procedures
These in-office procedures can significantly reduce, if not eliminate, your troubling brown spots!
- Lumecca: Lumecca is a breakthrough IPL that delivers visible results after the first session with no downtime.
- MOXI: Erase pigmentation and Melasma and speed up cell turnover with this non-ablative treatment that lightens, brightens and refreshes the skin. (3-5 days recovery)
- HALO: Eliminate years of sun damage and restore your skin’s luminosity. (5-7 days recovery)
Patience and Consistency
Remember, achieving glowing skin is a marathon, not a sprint. Consistency is key when incorporating new products into your routine. Give your skin time to adapt and renew itself.
Healthy Lifestyle Habits for Glowing Skin
Don’t underestimate the influence of a balanced diet, adequate hydration, and stress management on your skin’s health. Nourishing your body from within reflects positively on your complexion.
Our team of Board Certified Dermatologists can provide a personalized route even, radiant skin. Book a consultation by calling 203.764.2230
