The Different Types of Hyperpigmentation: Understanding Melasma, Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation, and More

Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery Group of Northern Virginia has a skilled staff headed up by Dr. Linda Nims, Dr. Rebecca Barry, and Dr. Kelley Redbord, who can help manage different hyperpigmentation issues in Vienna, VA. These problems are amazingly diverse and can create various symptoms and reactions.

Here are a few of the most common to watch for in your life.

Postinflammatory Changes 

 Postinflammatory skin changes typically occur due to trauma or inflammation on the skin and may require various therapies, such as chemical peels and acids, to remove. They usually produce irregular and darkly pigmented macules and patches on the skin. Often, they are most apparent at the injury site, so they’re generally easier to spot than other types. They’re also typically much darker.

Melasma

 Melasma creates pigmented and well-defined brown or gray macules. It focuses heavily on the face but can develop elsewhere, including the forearms. Most people with this condition are either pregnant or taking oral contraceptives. Thankfully, chemical peels, light or laser therapy, and sunscreen can reduce this problem’s severity and minimize long-term complications with skin health.

Solar Lentigines

 Identify hyperpigmentation problems in Vienna, VA, such as solar lentigines. This skin problem causes 1-3 centimeter macules on the skin that typically range from light yellow to dark brown. They usually develop on the face, hands, forearms, chest, back, and shins. 

Ephelides

 This condition causes 1-2 millimeter macules on the skin. These are sharply defined and typically tan or light brown. Expect to see them spread throughout the face, neck, chest, arms, and legs. They often develop in childhood after serious sun exposure. This development is similar to solar lentigines, but these macules are often more persistent without appropriate treatment. 

Cafe au lait Macules

 People with this condition develop 1-20 centimeter brown macules throughout the skin. Usually, they’re present at birth or develop during early childhood. Most evident on the trunk, they develop due to higher melanin in the basal cells. Laser surgery and surgical removal can help make them disappear and provide clearer skin free of noticeable blemishes and other issues.

Take Control of Your Skin

 At Dermatology & Dermatologic Surgery Group of Northern Virginia, Dr. Nims, Dr. Barry, and Dr. Redbord can help people with hyperpigmentation in Vienna, VA. We can work with people from all walks of life and in most age groups, so don’t hesitate to call us at (703) 938-5700 to learn more.