Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition, and, in most cases, it’s usually harmless. It occurs when patches of the skin turn darker than the surrounding skin. The darkening is caused by an excess of melanin (melanin is the pigment of that produces normal skin color), and the excess forms deposits on the skin.
Hyperpigmentation
One of the most common forms of hyperpigmentation is liver spots. Liver spots are caused by sun damage, and when they occur they appear as small, darkened patches—most oftentimes liver spots appear on the hands, face, or other areas most exposed by sun.
There are other reasons for hyperpigmentation as well. Acne is a major cause of hyperpigmentation, and the aftereffects of acne—when the acne clears—results in the darker patches of skin. Pregnancy could also cause hyperpigmentation in the form of hormonal changes—the condition is oftentimes termed the mask of pregnancy.
Laser skin resurfacing is a highly effective treatment for hyperpigmentation. The treatment works because a laser beam is used to remove portions of the skin affected, and the skin will replace the old damaged skin, with a new layer. It’s a natural process.
The procedure is simple, with a patient’s skin initially being cleaned and his or her eyes are protected from the laser with a safety shield. Then one of the physicians at Central Wellness will position a laser over the skin and a computer-guided scanner will move the laser over the affected area. The treatment itself takes no more than thirty to forty-five minutes to complete.
And the best part is there is relatively little downtime following a treatment. For patients who undergo a shallower depth of treatment the recovery time is minimal—two to four days—which is amazing considering the scope and effectiveness of the treatment (deeper treatments will require more downtime and the amount required will vary between patients, and the length and scope of the treatment will be discussed between a patient and his or her physician).
Central Wellness is ready to help you with your facial needs. If you suffer from hyperpigmentation then call Central Wellness today.
