Hyperpigmentation is a common skin problem you may need to deal with occasionally. The condition causes brown patches on your skin, and you may not like the way the patches look when they're on your face. The patches are often caused by sun exposure, but medications and other things cause skin discoloration too, and the patches are often difficult to get rid of.
A dermatologist may need to help you get rid of hyperpigmentation through an office treatment. However, the treatment has to be matched to your skin type or the discoloration could get worse. Here are some treatments for hyperpigmentation to consider.
1. Chemical Peels
Some chemical peels take off the surface layer of your skin, while others take off deeper layers. You may need more than one peel to get rid of hyperpigmentation completely, but each time you have a peel part of the discolored spot is peeled away.
A chemical peel might be best when you have several areas of hyperpigmentation since your entire face can be treated at once. A chemical peel given by your dermatologist is stronger than peels you buy without a prescription, and a professional peel can give you quick results.
2. Laser Treatments
An ablative laser is similar to a chemical peel in that it removes the top layer of your skin. This allows new skin to grow back that has a fresh, pink color. An ablative laser is stronger than a non-ablative laser. However, the non-ablative laser can also be used to treat hyperpigmentation, but you might need multiple treatments.
Lasers often work better on certain skin types, so your dermatologist will evaluate your skin first to make sure laser treatments are right for you, and if not, they can recommend a different way to get rid of hyperpigmentation.
3. Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion are treatments that remove the top layers of your skin to eliminate hyperpigmentation. Microdermabrasion removes the surface layer of skin only, while dermabrasion removes the deeper layer as well as the surface layer. Your dermatologist uses a handheld device that abrades your skin to remove it. These treatments are effective ways to get rid of hyperpigmentation, but you may need multiple treatments if you choose microdermabrasion.
When you have an evaluation of your skin, the dermatologist types your skin and lets you know the type and if you're dark, fair, or medium. This is helpful information to know before you buy skincare products and before having procedures done. Then they'll determine the depth and type of hyperpigmentation you have, your budget, and your ability to have downtime when deciding on the best office procedure for your condition.
In most photos you see in magazines and on Instagram, the models' skin has been airbrushed to look smooth and perfect. In real life, you will probably never get your skin to look that perfect. But there likely is room for improvement. Professional treatment by a dermatologist can help you get rid of stubborn blemishes, dry patches, clogged pores, and other imperfections that might make you feel self-conscious. Treatments have come a long way in recent years, and new therapies like laser treatment and dermabrasion are giving patients amazing results. Learn more as you dig into the articles offered on this website.