Hyperpigmentation

What is hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is a common, generally harmless condition in which patches of skin become darker in color than the surrounding skin. Melasma and age/liver spots are a common form of this skin condition. They are the small, freckle-like marks that are caused by excessive sun exposure. They commonly appear on the face, chest, shoulders and arms because those areas of the body get the most sunshine.

What is melasma?

Melasma is a skin condition in which brown or gray-brown patches form on the face. Most people develop melasma on their cheeks, on the bridge of the nose, the forehead, chin and above the upper lip. It can also appear on areas of the body that get a lot of sun, such as the neck and arms. Women are more likely to develop melasma, and it can develop during pregnancy. The condition is sometimes called “the mask of pregnancy,” as it seems to be triggered by hormones.

What causes hyperpigmentation?

Ultraviolet (UV rays) accelerate the production of melanin, which gives skin its brown pigmentation. Hyperpigmentation results from overactive pigment cells and melanin being grouped together in higher concentrations. Melanin tends to develop in small circles in a condensed area.

Again, these spots are mostly harmless and are usually addressed for cosmetic reasons. If you do notice an unusual brown spot on your skin, be sure to monitor it to make sure it doesn’t change in size or color. If the spot does change size or color, schedule an appointment with your regular physician to get it checked out. For age and liver spot removal, schedule an appointment at Pellé Medical Spa in Manchester, New Hampshire. We specialize in the removal of brown spots and the aesthetic treatment of the aging process.

Schedule treatments in Manchester, New Hampshire

We provide the HydraFacial, photofacials and chemical peels to reduce hyperpigmentation on the face. To learn more about how these treatments can help you, schedule a consultation at our medical spa in Manchester. Give us a call at (603) 627-7000 or fill out the request form on our site to get started. We can create a treatment plan just for you!