Hyperpigmentation & Melasma

Conditions › Skin › Hyperpigmentation & Melasma

Complexion concerns come in all shapes and sizes. You might dislike the natural color of your skin, struggle with acne or eczema, or be frustrated with the onset of aging and wrinkles. But whatever their unique skin type, everyone wants a complexion that is clear and even in tone and texture. Hyperpigmentation and melasma are common skin conditions that may negatively affect your appearance and confidence.

What is Hyperpigmentation and Melasma?

Hyperpigmentation is a general term for darkening of the skin or extra pigmentation. There are multiple types of hyperpigmentation. It can occur in small spots, patches, or all over your body. While increased pigmentation typically isn’t harmful, it can have an unwanted effect on your complexion and sometimes indicates a medical condition.

One type of hyperpigmentation is melasma, which causes patches of skin discoloration. These patches are usually brownish and darker than your usual skin color. They most often occur symmetrically on the face, such as on the nose, cheeks, forehead, and chin.

Hyperpigmentation and Melasma Treatment Guilford

Frequently Asked Questions

Hyperpigmentation can occur for multiple reasons, only one of which is melasma. Other types of hyperpigmentation, such as sunspots, are related to sun exposure. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can also result from acne scars and other forms of inflammation. Generally, the most common risk factors for hyperpigmentation are:

  • Sun damage
  • Hormonal changes, including pregnancy or the use of oral contraceptives
  • Darker skin type
  • Inflammatory skin conditions (e.g., acne) or trauma to the skin
  • Certain medications and conditions

Melasma occurs when your skin responds to light, heat, or hormonal changes by producing more melanin, which darkens the skin. There’s no single cause for this increased melanin production, however. 

Melasma is most common in women during pregnancy. It often fades and darkens over time, becoming more noticeable in the summer when you’re exposed to sunlight. Some people have melasma for a few months; others have it for years or their entire life.

Because there are different types of hyperpigmentation, the best treatment depends on your unique case. For example, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne may need a different treatment than melasma. 

The first step in improving hyperpigmentation is consulting with an experienced, board-certified dermatologist like Dr. Langdon. He will help you determine the type and cause of your hyperpigmentation and the best treatment plan to combat it. Here are some of the treatments he may recommend.

Medical-Grade Skincare Products

Your first defense against complexion concerns is a consistent skincare routine with high-quality products. The Langdon Center offers many medical-grade skincare products that help prevent and decrease hyperpigmentation and melasma. With premium brands like EltaMD® and a comprehensive lineup of cleansers, moisturizers, serums, and more, Dr. Langdon can help you build a personalized skincare regimen for your unique needs. He may also prescribe bleaching creams such as hydroquinone and retinoic acid.

Microneedling

Microneedling is also known as collagen induction therapy because it stimulates your body to produce more collagen. This can yield numerous benefits for your complexion, including reduced wrinkles, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation. We offer microneedling with the SkinPen® device or AquaGold® fine touch, which adds personalized serums to the treatment to enhance your results.

PhotoFacial

Hyperpigmentation and melasma go hand-in-hand with sun damage, and one of the most effective non-surgical treatments to reverse sun damage is a PhotoFacial with BroadBand Light or Intense Pulsed Light. This light therapy breaks down pigment cells to fade hyperpigmentation and restore a bright, clear complexion.

Laser Resurfacing

The Langdon Center offers numerous laser treatments with cutting-edge technology to treat common skin concerns. Laser resurfacing helps clear away the top layer of dull, damaged skin to reveal a healthy, radiant complexion. It also stimulates collagen production, reducing signs of aging and restoring skin health.

Take the next step.

To learn more about hyperpigmentation and melasma or to schedule your consultation with Board-Certified Cosmetic Surgeon and Dermatologist Dr. Langdon, please fill out the form on this page or call The Langdon Center at (203) 453-8625. We look forward to working with you! The Langdon Center serves patients in the Guilford & New Haven, CT areas.

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