What Causes Hyperpigmentation Spots on the Skin?

Skin pigmentation is one of the most common concerns people have about their skin. It becomes quite noticeable as you age. They can show up on the neck, face, chest, hands, and other areas exposed to the sun. While the issue is not a cause for medical concern, it can impact one’s self-confidence. It makes you look much older than you are. Many people wonder what they can do about the issue. There are effective treatment options that can help. Non-surgical laser removal of hyperpigmented spots is safe, effective, and popular. So, what causes hyperpigmented spots on the skin? Below you will find helpful information about the causes, treatment options, and how to reduce your risk for the issue.

What Causes Hyperpigmentation Spots on the Skin?

Pigmentation can impact the appearance of your skin. It can make you look older and feel self-conscious. Several factors can cause the condition.

Sun Exposure

Sun exposure is one of the most common causes of pigmentation. UV light triggers melanin production in the skin. Melanin gives your skin its pigment. Over time, sun exposure can create brown spots. These are small, concentrated areas of melanin distributed throughout the body. They often appear on the face, hands, and chest as these are the areas most often exposed to sunlight. Pigmentation does not discriminate; people who tan easily can also develop sunspots.

To reduce your risk of pigmentation, it is important to wear SPF daily. You should wear SPF even if you do not go outdoors. If you do go outside, avoid the sun during peak hours. This is when the UV rays are the strongest and can cause the most damage to your skin. You should also wear a wide-brimmed hat and protective clothing to reduce your risk of damage.

Hormonal Shifts

Hormonal shifts can influence the amount of pigment the skin produces. Hormonal shifts are common during pregnancy, menopause, and if you are taking birth control. It can also occur if you are on hormone therapy. Hormonal fluctuations during these periods can result in small, uneven patches of pigment on the skin. They can become even more noticeable after sun exposure, especially if you do not use SPF. In some cases, these may fade over time when your hormones stabilize. However, this is not common, and sunspots require treatment.

It can be difficult to control hormonal shifts. With that in mind, you can take preventive measures to reduce your risk of pigmentation. Wearing SPF daily is one of the most important steps. UV exposure deepens hormone-related pigment. Using gentle skincare products in your skincare routine is helpful. It prevents irritation and keeps your skin even. When introducing new products into your routine, test them out and integrate them slowly. This reduces the risk of skin irritation and pigment issues. Your hormones also benefit from hydration and a balanced diet.

Inflammation

Any skin irritation or injury can leave behind pigmentation. Post-inflammatory pigmentation is common after acne, eczema, rashes, and skin cuts. Once the skin heals, the pigment is visible in the affected area. These types of spots can take months to fade, if at all. Those with deeper skin tones are at increased risk of sunspots related to inflammation.

To reduce the risk of post-inflammatory pigmentation, wear SPF 30 or higher daily, even if you do not go outdoors. If you have any skin condition, focus on a treatment plan that effectively manages it. Acne, rashes, and other skin conditions can cause pigmentation. This can be difficult to address if you do not have the condition under control. It is also helpful to use gentle skincare products. Protecting your skin barrier is critical to your overall skin health.

Treatment for Skin Pigmentation

Pigmentation can have a real impact on your appearance and overall aesthetic. This is especially impactful if the pigmentation is on your face or neck. Many people feel self-conscious because it affects their appearance. Treatment is safe, effective, and can help you feel like yourself again. To get the best results, it is important to work with the top female plastic surgeon.

Non-surgical laser treatments target unwanted pigment without damage to the surrounding skin. The darker areas absorb the laser energy. This results in the pigment being broken up into tiny particles. The body naturally absorbs these particles, which leads to a more even skin tone. Treatment is effective for pigmentation related to sun spots, aging spots, and certain types of post-inflammatory marks.

Treatment is fast, safe, and effective. Patients are comfortable and pain-free. You may feel a slight, gentle snapping or warm sensation. After treatment, you may experience mild swelling and redness. This is completely normal and should subside within just a few hours. You can get back to your daily routine right away. You may notice improvements after just one treatment. However, it is common to undergo a series of laser treatments to achieve your desired results.

How to Maintain Your Results After Laser Treatment

Maintaining your results is important after treatment. There are several ways to reduce your risk of pigmentation after treatment.

Sun Protection

Using sunscreen daily is the most effective way to reduce your risk of pigmentation. Use SPF 30 daily, even if you do not go outdoors. Cover your skin in protective clothing and wear a wide-brimmed hat if you do go outdoors.

Maintenance Treatments

Addressing pigmentation early on is helpful. Your initial treatment can dramatically improve pigmentation. However, regular maintenance treatments are beneficial. Working with a skilled plastic surgeon is necessary to ensure you are on a treatment plan that is right for you. Each patient is unique, but a customized treatment plan will be created based on your unique needs.

Top Female Plastic Surgeon

Hyperpigmentation can impact your entire facial aesthetic. If you want to improve the appearance of your skin, contact Dr. Sarah Avila, Oculofacial Plastic Surgery, today to schedule your consultation!