Joel Schlessinger, MD

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE TYPES OFHYPERPIGMENTATION

Interested in learning more or setting up an appointment? Call 402.334.7546 or visit www.LovelySkin.com/Hyperpigmentation to browse our full selection of products.

Hyperpigmentation is a darkening of the skin caused by an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. Sun exposure is a major cause of hyperpigmentation, but it can also stem from pregnancy, medication, injury to the skin or genetics.

What is hyperpigmentation?

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Brown spots are the most common type of hyperpigmentation. These spots range in color from light brown to dark brown, depending on skin tone, and are typically found on areas of skin that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, chest and backs of hands. The cause of brown spots is usually sun exposure and tanning bed use.

Brown Spots

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Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is caused by an injury to skin. The complexion naturally produces more melanin to prevent inflammation. This type of discoloration may be pink, red, brown, purple or black, depending on the skin’s inflammatory response. Acne, dermatitis, psoriasis, warts, burns and wounds are leading reasons for this kind of discoloration.

Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation

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Melasma causes brown or gray patches to appear on areas like the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, bridge of nose and chin. Approximately 90 percent of those who develop melasma are women, and the condition is more common in people of color. It may be triggered by sun exposure, hormonal fluctuations (usually pregnancy), birth control pills and certain medications.

Melasma

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Freckles are small tan, brown or black spots that usually appear in clusters on sun-exposed areas of skin. Although they’re often hereditary, freckles can also be the result of sun exposure from a young age. Freckles may seem harmless, but there is a small chance they can develop into skin cancer or other serious conditions over time. Any irregular or evolving freckles should be examined by a dermatologist.

Freckles

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Sun exposure is known to darken discoloration no matter the initial cause. Protecting your skin with a broad spectrum sunscreen like EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46 Broad Spectrum Sunscreen is the best way to prevent dark spots and keep other signs of aging under control.

How can I prevent hyperpigmentation?

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Exfoliation is important to maintaining a healthy, clear complexion. Dr. Schlessinger recommends applying LovelySkin LUXE Exfoliating Gel Mild 11% daily to help stimulate cell turnover and promote a more even skin tone. This leave-on treatment contains a blend of amino fruit acids and Dead Sea minerals to help remove dulling debris and promote a more even skin tone. The formula also helps keep breakouts under control and minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

LovelySkin LUXE Exfoliating Gel Mild 11%

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Interested in learning more or setting up an appointment? Call 402.334.7546 or visit www.LovelySkin.com/Hyperpigmentation to browse our full selection of products.

LovelySkin LUXE Clarifying Gel Cleanser gently exfoliates skin with 2% salicylic and 2% glycolic acids. In addition to promoting a more even skin tone, this foaming gel cleanser also helps treat breakouts and blackheads while minimizing the appearance of large pores. Its unique formula reduces inflammation and irritation without over-drying the complexion.

LovelySkin LUXE Clarifying Gel Cleanser

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Interested in learning more or setting up an appointment? Call 402.334.7546 or visit www.LovelySkin.com/Hyperpigmentation to browse our full selection of products.

Hydroquinone is often considered the gold standard for treating hyperpigmentation. This ingredient works by breaking down melanosomes, the pigment granules that comprise melanin. It also inhibits the production of tyrosinase, the enzyme that’s essential for melanin production. Due to its potency, sensitive skin may not tolerate hydroquinone in high concentrations. It is also not recommended for use while pregnant or breastfeeding.

What is hydroquinone?

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Obagi Nu-Derm Transformation System uses 4% hydroquinone to help address dark spots and other signs of aging. Available for normal to dry or normal to oily skin, this comprehensive kit includes seven products to treat existing and prevent future discoloration.

Obagi Nu-Derm

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Interested in learning more or setting up an appointment? Call 402.334.7546 or visit www.LovelySkin.com/Hyperpigmentation to browse our full selection of products.

Obagi Nu-DermBefore After

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Obagi Nu-Derm Fx Starter System is a hydroquinone-free system that treats discoloration with 7% arbutin, a natural hydroquinone derivative extracted from the leaves of the bearberry plant. This skin care set includes five of your favorite original Nu-Derm products, plus Nu-Derm Clear Fx and Nu-Derm Blend Fx.

Obagi Nu-Derm Fx

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SkinMedica LYTERA Skin Brightening Complex is a hydroquinone-free treatment that helps diminish the appearance of discoloration and brightens dull skin. This formula contains a blend of vitamin C, niacinamide, peptides, retinol and licorice root extract to create a more even skin tone.

SkinMedica LYTERA

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NuGene NuLight Light & Bright Gel features innovative stem cell technology and other patented ingredients that work to break down melanin for a brighter, more even skin tone. Growth factors, peptides, vitamins, minerals and amino acids in this treatment also help diminish signs of aging for a more youthful appearance.

NuGene NuLight Light & Bright Gel

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Interested in learning more or setting up an appointment? Call 402.334.7546 or visit www.LovelySkin.com/Hyperpigmentation to browse our full selection of products.

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Interested in learning more or setting up an appointment? Call 402.334.7546 or visit www.LovelySkin.com/Hyperpigmentation to browse our full selection of products.