Pigmentation Conditions in Miami, FL | Miami Dermatology and Laser Institute

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

What Should I Expect from Pigmentation Treatment?

Resolving pigmentation conditions in the skin can take some time. Melanin levels in the skin need to normalize. We recommend you stay committed to the treatment plan and maintain confidence that your pigmentation condition will be remedied as long as the treatment plan is followed. Some pigmentation conditions such as melasma cannot be cured but can be made better with treatments – and sometimes will relapse. Treatments include rotational treatment, broad-spectrum sunscreens, topical lightening agents, exfoliation for epidermal turnover, barrier repair, and laser and light procedures.

Am I a Good Candidate for Pigmentation Treatment?

If you notice any small areas or patches of skin that have changed color, we recommend you be evaluated by someone on the MDLI team to determine if treatment is necessary to prevent complications in the future.

Finding a dark or light spot on your skin may indicate you have a pigmentation condition that requires treatment. Jill Waibel, MD, FAAD, the board-certified dermatologist at Miami Dermatology and Laser Institute, offers men and women in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Kendall and surrounding communities in Florida treatments for pigmentation conditions. To learn more contact us today to schedule a consultation.