Normal skin contains cells called melanocytes which produce skin pigment known as melanin. In certain conditions of the skin, these cells are either abnormal or abnormally distributed. In the condition we refer to as Hyperpigmentation, the pigment cells are overactive, resulting in the appearance of brown patches on the skin. There are various forms of this condition, and each may involve a different treatment approach.

Melasma or brown patches of skin which often appear on the cheeks or forehead, can be due to heredity or caused by hormonal changes such as occur in pregnancy. This is also referred to as the “mask of pregnancy”. Melasma, unlike other pigmented lesions, does not respond to laser treatments, but may improve with other types of treatment.

Age spots or liver spots commonly appear on many adults during the aging process or after years of exposure to the sun. They are normally seen on the hands, neckline, and forearms. Also referred to as liver spots or lentigos, they can be a detraction from your natural beauty. Fortunately, this type of pigmented lesion can be treated very successfully.

Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation may result from injury to the skin. Causes of this condition include severe acne, rashes such as eczema or psoriasis, and even poorly administered chemical peels or laser surgery.

Treatments for Hyperpigmentation:

In recent years, advanced treatments have become available that effectively and at times dramatically resolve most types of Hyperpigmentation. Naturally, more severe cases may require long term treatments to restore clear, healthy skin!

PhotoFacial with AFT Pulsed Light, MicroLaserPeel™, Pixel Laser Resurfacing, and MedLite C6 Laser treatments offer advanced approachs to the treatment of Hyperpigmentation. A series of several PhotoFacial treatments can make remarkable progress in diminishing this condition in all areas with little to no down time following the procedure. MedLite C6 Laser treatments provide a more aggressive approach to treating pigmented lesions such as age spots, freckles, or brown birthmarks in one to two treatments. Using this method, there will be some presence of inflamed or irritated reaction in the areas being treated for varied amounts of time. There is no limitation in activity from either of these treatments.

The Obagi NuDerm topical system has been used effectively for the correction of Hyperpigmentation for years at Rejuvené. Obagi products work at the cellular level of the skin, creating a reduction of melanocyte activity, and distributing the melanin more evenly. Clinical studies show not only the reduction of Hyperpigmentation, but also improved collagen structure and the increase in the formation of elastin with the use of the Obagi system. A more advanced treatment for this condition combines the Obagi system with SilkPeel Microdermabrasion using deep infusions of hydroquinone, a bleaching agent. At the completion of a cycle of this treatment, you can expect remarkable improvement in the color, tone, and texture of the skin, combined with a fresh, glowing and youthful appearance.

For further information, see Obagi NuDerm system in the Medical Skin Care Products section of this website.

Also refer to MicrolaserPeel™, Pixel Laser Resurfacing, Medlite C6 Laser and PhotoFacial with AFT Pulsed Light in the Treatments & Procedures menu.

There are many types of Hyperpigmentation and a variety of treatment approaches, so it is essential to schedule a Skin Care Consultation for proper evaluation and in order to determine the correct method of treatment.

You may do so by calling (530) 342-8295