Hyperpigmentation
Dark spots, uneven patches and discoloration can cast shadows over otherwise healthy skin, creating a complexion that feels less vibrant than it should. At Choosi Skin Face and Laser Spa in Cincinnati, OH, we recognize how hyperpigmentation affects your confidence and self-image. Our specialized treatments target these areas of excess pigmentation with precision, helping you achieve the clear, even-toned skin you desire through advanced technology and personalized care.
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What Is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation occurs when certain areas of skin produce excess melanin, the natural pigment responsible for skin color. This overproduction creates patches or spots that appear darker than the skin around them and range from light brown to black, depending on your skin tone and the underlying cause. These darkened areas can vary in size from tiny freckles to large patches covering significant portions of the face or body.
The condition affects people of all skin types and backgrounds, though it tends to be more noticeable and persistent in individuals with darker skin tones. While hyperpigmentation is typically harmless from a medical standpoint, its appearance can significantly impact how you feel about your skin. The patches may fade over time without treatment, but this process often takes months or years, and some forms of hyperpigmentation persist indefinitely without professional intervention.
What Are the Types of Hyperpigmentation?
Age Spots (Solar Lentigines)
- Flat, brown spots appearing on sun-exposed areas
- Most common on the face, hands, shoulders and arms
- Develop gradually over years of UV exposure
- Range from light tan to dark brown
- Well-defined borders with uniform color
Melasma
- Symmetrical patches on cheeks, forehead, upper lip and nose
- Triggered by hormonal changes, pregnancy or birth control
- Often called “the mask of pregnancy” when occurring during pregnancy
- Can be chronic and recurring
- More common in women and those with darker skin
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
- Dark marks left after skin injury or inflammation
- Common after acne, burns, cuts or other trauma
- Can occur anywhere on the face or body
- Intensity varies based on skin tone and the severity of injury
- May fade naturally but often persists without treatment
Freckles
- Small, concentrated spots of melanin
- Genetic predisposition, enhanced by sun exposure
- Most common in fair-skinned individuals
- Typically appear on the face, shoulders and arms
- Darken with sun exposure and fade in winter
What Causes Hyperpigmentation?
How Is Hyperpigmentation Treated?
At Choosi Skin Face and Laser Spa, we employ state-of-the-art technologies and techniques to address hyperpigmentation at its source. Our treatment selection considers your skin type, the depth of pigmentation and your individual response patterns to create optimal outcomes.
Laser Treatments for Pigmentation
Lutronic® Ultra System
The Lutronic Ultra utilizes Selective Waveband Technology to precisely target melanin deposits without affecting surrounding tissue. This advanced system breaks down excess pigment while stimulating cellular renewal for clearer, more uniform skin tone. Safe and effective for all skin types, the treatment works exceptionally well for acne scarring, age spots, sun damage and superficial pigmentation concerns.
Results typically begin showing within seven to 10 days as pigmented cells rise to the surface and naturally exfoliate. Full results develop over four to six weeks, with continued improvement possible through multiple sessions.
Candela® GentleMax Pro
This dual-wavelength platform utilizes the Alexandrite laser to target unwanted pigmentation in lighter skin tones.
Initial clearing appears after one to two weeks, with optimal results achieved through a series of three to five GentleMax Pro treatments spaced four to six weeks apart.
Advanced Resurfacing Options
Candela® Matrix™ RF Microneedling
While primarily known for skin tightening, Matrix RF microneedling also improves hyperpigmentation through controlled skin remodeling. The combination of radiofrequency energy and microneedling accelerates cellular turnover, helping to break up pigmented cells while stimulating new, evenly pigmented skin.
Pigmentation improvement becomes noticeable after two to three weeks, with progressive enhancement continuing for three to four months as collagen remodeling occurs.
Combination Treatment Strategies
Addressing stubborn hyperpigmentation often requires a multi-faceted approach. We frequently combine laser treatments with RF microneedling to target pigmentation at multiple depths while improving overall skin texture. This comprehensive strategy accelerates results and helps prevent recurrence. Some patients benefit from incorporating professional-grade topical treatments between sessions to enhance and maintain their results.
Considerations for Different Skin Types
Fair Skin (Fitzpatrick Types I-II)
Lighter skin types often show dramatic contrast between normal and hyperpigmented areas, making spots highly visible. These skin types typically respond well to various laser wavelengths and can tolerate more aggressive settings. However, fair skin requires vigilant sun protection during and after treatment to prevent new pigmentation from forming. Recovery tends to be faster with less risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Medium Skin (Fitzpatrick Types III-IV)
Medium skin tones require balanced treatment approaches that effectively target pigmentation without overstimulating melanocytes. These skin types may experience temporary darkening before improvement occurs. We often use moderate laser settings and may recommend pre-treatment with brightening agents to optimize results. Close monitoring between sessions allows us to adjust protocols based on your individual response.
Darker Skin (Fitzpatrick Types V-VI)
Treating hyperpigmentation in darker skin demands expertise and specialized equipment. The Lutronic Ultra System and RF microneedling are our preferred options, as they minimize the risk of creating additional pigmentation. Treatment typically proceeds more conservatively with lower energy settings and longer intervals between sessions. Pre- and post-treatment care becomes especially crucial to prevent complications.
Sensitive or Reactive Skin
Individuals with sensitive skin or conditions like rosacea may experience increased irritation from hyperpigmentation treatments. We modify protocols to include cooling techniques, shorter treatment times and gentle post-care routines. Starting with test spots helps determine optimal settings before treating larger areas.
Hormonally Influenced Skin
Melasma and hormonally triggered pigmentation require special attention, as they can be reactive and recurrent. Treatment must be gentle enough to avoid triggering further pigmentation while effective enough to create visible improvement. Long-term management strategies become essential for maintaining results.
Reveal Your Radiant, Even-Toned Complexion
Why let dark spots and uneven pigmentation dim your natural glow when clearer skin is within reach? At Choosi Skin Face and Laser Spa, we’re passionate about helping you achieve the flawless complexion that makes you feel unstoppable. Dr. Tiffany Hall and our skilled team combine artistic vision with scientific precision to fade those stubborn spots and reveal skin that radiates confidence.
Contact us today by calling (513) 818-8171 or visiting our online contact form to book your personalized pigmentation assessment and start your transformation to brilliantly clear, beautifully balanced skin.
Free ConsultationWe are committed to providing effective facial laser treatments and services suitable for all skin types and tones, ensuring that everyone can embark on a journey toward radiant skin.
– Dr. Tiffany Hall
