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Dealing with Uneven Skin Tone

There are many skin imperfections or abnormalities that we work hard to try and combat daily. Acne, dullness, and skin texture are a few of the top contenders. However, one that may take the cake is uneven skin tone, also known as hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation can appear in simple, common forms, such as freckles or birthmarks, or it can show up in more serious ways, such as melasma, albinism, or vitiligo.

Woman with dark spots on face

Whichever way we experience it, uneven skin tone is just one of those skin differences that we often try to get to the bottom of. So, how do we get to the root of the problem? Read on to learn more about what causes uneven skin tone and what you can do about it.

What is Skin Pigment?

Every human’s skin color is determined by melanin, a pigment made by cells in the skin called melanocytes. Our skin tones vary greatly due to the amount and type of melanin those cells produce. These levels of melanin are determined by an individual’s race and exposure to the sun as well as their hormones.

When melanin production is off, abnormalities in the pigment can occur. As mentioned, this can show up on the skin as freckles, birthmarks, vitiligo, etc.

What is Melasma?

Of those abnormalities, melasma is one of the most addressed. Melasma appears on the skin as brown or blue-gray spots and is caused by the overproduction of melanocytes, the cells responsible for your skin color. On a good note, melasma is harmless and has the potential to fade rather quickly, especially with the help of specific cosmetic treatments. Melasma most commonly appears on the face and forearms and mostly affects women during pregnancy, although anyone is prone to this skin disorder.

How to Treat Melasma?

The safest and most sure-fire way to treat hyperpigmentation such as melasma is through professional services like microdermabrasion, chemical peels, and/or laser treatments. These treatments help with sloughing off layers of the skin that may hold the most pigment from the melasma.

For at-home treatment, it is suggested to use products with kojic acids, alpha hydroxy, and vitamin A to help with skin cell reproduction and overall skin renewal.

Before and after image of dark spot removal

Are you ready to say goodbye to uneven skin and hello to a glowing, clear complexion? Alamo Heights Dermatology is ready to be of assistance. We offer various services such as chemical peels, laser treatments, and more that can help the appearance of your hyperpigmentation today. Visit our website or contact us at (210) 255- 8447 to book your appointment!

Resources:

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/skin-pigment-disorders

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11014-pigmentation-abnormal-pigmentation

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21454-melasma

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/melasma-what-are-the-best-treatments-202207112776

https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/melasma-overview#:~:text=Melasma%20is%20a%20skin%20condition,diagnosis%20and%20individualized%20treatment%20plan.

https://alamoheightsderm.com/patient-info/birthmarks-pigmented-skin/#more-283

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