Pigmentation is a normal part of your skin that gives it color. Some areas of your skin may develop pigmentation issues that cause light or dark patches. At Miami Dermatology and Laser Institute, board-certified dermatologist, Jill Waibel, MD, FAAD, treats pigmentation conditions that affect men and women living all over the world.
What are Types of Pigmentation?
Pigmentation is a term that describes the darker coloration versus the surrounding skin that is produced by melanin. The color of your skin can change due to sun exposure, the development of skin conditions (due to genetics and/or lifestyle), hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies and other factors. Also, growths that are both benign, pre-melanoma, or melanoma may be pigmented as well as birthmarks. It is important that a board-certified dermatologist examines and renders a diagnosis prior to treatment. Pigmentation conditions include those that cause dark or light patches on the skin, including:
- Brown Spots
- Age Spot (Seborrheic Keratosis)
- Sun Damage / Photorejuvenation
- Pre-Cancerous Lesions
- Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
- Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra (DPN) – Skin of Color Patients
- Nevus of Ota
- Vitiligo
- Melasma
- Birthmarks
What Causes Pigmentation?
Changes in your skin pigmentation occur when the melanin is affected by some external factors including inflammation, internal autoimmune conditions, heat or light from ultraviolent invisible wavelength. Sunlight causes the melanin to rise to the surface of the skin, and therefore your skin darkens. Unfortunately, this also means the melanin cells die and shed like other skin cells. Melanin not only gives your skin color, but it also protects your skin from damaging ultraviolet light. Other conditions such as skin cancers, are caused by abnormal cells that are darker or lighter than the surrounding skin.
How is Pigmentation Treated?
Dr. Waibel offers several treatment options for pigmentation conditions. She will recommend the best course of treatment for your pigmentation condition.
- Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
- Laser and Light Therapies
- Chemical Peels
- Electrocautery
- Topical Prescription Medications