How to Treat Hyperpigmentation With Laser Skin Resurfacing

Want to turn back the hands of time and reverse sun-damaged skin? Procedures like laser skin resurfacing are designed to treat a range of skin issues and restore your youthful appearance, allowing the best version of yourself to shine through. Dermatology Southeast offers this comprehensive service to men and women who struggle with hyperpigmentation.

So what is hyperpigmentation, and can this treatment remove hyperpigmentation from the face? When you visit with one of our professionals in Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beach, FL, we can discuss what causes this problem and design a custom treatment plan to help you achieve your cosmetic goals. When you are ready to discover your options, we suggest visiting our office and speaking with a doctor in person.

What is hyperpigmentation?

So, what is hyperpigmentation? Hyperpigmentation is a common condition in which some areas of the skin become darker in color. Discoloration occurs when the pigment-producing cells of the body, called melanocytes, over-produce melanin. As a result, you may notice uneven skin tone and blotchy spots. Hyperpigmentation can affect all skin types, regardless of background or age. Some of the most common causes of hyperpigmentation include:

Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays
Hormonal changes
Some medical conditions
Certain medications
Acne scars
Skin trauma

How hyperpigmentation laser treatment works

Dermatology Southeast offers in-house consultations to see if you are a good candidate for laser skin resurfacing. Your technician will begin by asking a few questions about your health history. We will also review your problem areas and aesthetic goals. Our hyperpigmentation laser treatment is designed to target the specific areas of discoloration and make the skin appear clear and youthful.

Our ablative laser removes the thin outer layer of the skin and heats the underlying tissue to stimulate the growth of new collagen. When the skin regrows, it also appears tighter and smoothers. Ablative treatments include the erbium laser, carbon dioxide (CO2) laser, and advanced combination systems. Non-ablative lasers also encourage collagen growth in a less invasive manner, requiring less recovery time than ablative methods.

Preparing for laser skin resurfacing

To remove hyperpigmentation from the face and other areas, patients need to prepare for their appointment beforehand. Follow these guidelines for laser skin resurfacing unless your technician directs otherwise:

Hyperpigmentation from sun damage can be serious. Avoid sun exposure and do not use UV tanning beds for several weeks before laser treatment.
Do not use any medications that could cause further photosensitivity. Our staff will let you know what kind of products to stop using.
If you take any new or different medications before your procedure, reach out to our office to learn if you still qualify for treatment.
Please let us know if you received any cosmetic injections, such as BOTOX® or dermal fillers, recently.
Arrive for your laser appointment with clean skin free from cosmetics and lotions.

After your laser appointment

Following laser skin resurfacing, we will give you a special ointment for optimal healing before sending you home. The skin may appear red and irritated, but this should subside easily. Since lasers target damaged skin cells and promote new skin growth, you should expect your skin to flake or crust. This will generally last 3 – 5 days, but it is an important part of the process. Because hyperpigmentation from sun damage may have caused your problems in the first place, patients should continue to limit their sun exposure in Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beach, FL.

How to keep your refreshed results

Once we remove hyperpigmentation from the face, our technicians can give you guidelines and instructions for keeping your skin clear for years to come. We recommend regularly applying sunscreen any time you go outside. UV-resistant clothing and sunglasses are other great ways to keep your skin healthy-looking and free from discoloration. If you have other issues, such as fine lines or textured skin, contact Dermatology Southeast. Our staff can make further recommendations for treatment.

Achieve clearer, blemish-free skin

If you have struggled with hyperpigmentation from sun damage and other causes, laser skin resurfacing may be the answer. Many patients at Dermatology Southeast fall in love with their newer, fresher skin. If you believe you could benefit from hyperpigmentation laser treatment, call our office in Jacksonville and Jacksonville Beach, FL. We are happy to set up a private skin consultation to discuss your needs.