Hyperpigmentation and Melasma

Hyperpigmentation (too much color) is a term used to describe a number of conditions where one patch of skin becomes noticeably darker than the surrounding skin of the same area. 

Although different types of hyperpigmentation can be caused by various factors such as acne scarring, medications or inflammation from other conditions, the main cause of hyperpigmentation is sun exposure. Unprotected exposure to harmful UV rays can cause skin damage, accelerate aging, “leatherize” the skin and lead to more severe conditions to include skin cancer.

At Belle Ame Aesthetics & Wellness, we take a multi-modal approach to treatment utilizing collagen-inducing therapy, medical grade skin peels, and skin care products targeted to suppress melanocyte production. One of the most important factors in protecting against hyperpigmentation of the skin is protection from the sun and UV rays. Everyone needs to wear sunscreen, including skin of color, every day despite the weather outside. Sunscreen should be reapplied throughout the day due to sun exposure or exposure to the blue light emitted from our phone, computer, and digital devices and watches.

Melasma is a specific type of hyperpigmentation that affects over 5 million Americans. Hormonal changes in the body contribute to the formation of hyperpigmented skin. You may now melasma best as it is often referred to as “the mask of pregnancy” as pregnant women are much more likely to develop this condition. 

One specific type of hyperpigmentation is melasma, a condition that affects over 5 million Americans. Although it also is a type of condition characterized by darker patches of skin, melasma is differentiated from other forms of hyperpigmentation mainly by its cause; rather than just being sun-related, melasma is caused in part by hormonal changes within the body. This is why melasma is often referred to as “the mask of pregnancy,” as pregnant women are much more likely to have this condition. In fact, melasma is found much more prevalently in women – pregnant or not – partly because of this hormonal cause.

Melasma is also referred to as a “mask” because it almost always targets a person’s face, resulting in dark patches of skin on a person’s chin, cheeks, nose, upper lip or other areas. Melasma can sometimes be found in other parts of the body, typically those prone to more sun exposure, such as the shoulders. 

At Belle-Ame Aesthetics & Wellness, we customize a treatment plan and skin care products that aim to improve the appearance of hyperpigmented skin. It is important to know that there is not a “quick fix” for treating hyperpigmentation….it is a journey. Slow and steady wins the race!