Face Lift

Hyperpigmentation Removal: Frequently Asked Questions

If you have uneven skin tone or darkened skin patches, you may be a candidate for hyperpigmentation removal. Before you consult with a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, you should familiarize yourself with the treatment options available to you. We've assembled some of the most frequently asked questions about hyperpigmentation removal, and their answers:

  1. What is hyperpigmentation?
  2. Am I a candidate for hyperpigmentation removal?
  3. What does a typical hyperpigmentation removal consultation entail?
  4. What are some of the hyperpigmentation removal treatment options?
  5. What is Lumixyl?
  6. What are the risks associated with hyperpigmentation removal?
  7. What should I expect after my hyperpigmentation removal treatment?

 

1. What is hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation means excess pigmentation (color) in a body part or tissue, including the skin. The condition may be a result of your skin type, acne, medications, hormones (especially those associated with pregnancy), sun damage or injury.

Back to Top

 

2. Am I a candidate for hyperpigmentation removal?

You may be a candidate for hyperpigmentation removal if you have dark skin patches or uneven skin tone that bothers you.

Back to Top

 

3. What does a typical hyperpigmentation removal consultation entail?

A consultation with a qualified doctor is the first step in determining the cause of your hyperpigmentation and how it can best be treated. The doctor will take a complete medical history and then examine your skin before outlining your treatment options. He or she should also go over the risks of hyperpigmentation removal, what to expect during recovery and the costs associated with your treatment.

Back to Top

 

4. What are some of the hyperpigmentation removal treatment options?

Currently available hyperpigmentation removal treatments may be as simple as switching to a medication that does not cause darkening of your skin. Other options include bleaching creams like hydroquinone or Lumixyl, as well as more invasive procedures such as chemical peels, intense pulsed light (IPL), laser skin resurfacing and microdermabrasion. Camouflage make-up and innovative products like Microskin may also help cover up the hyperpigmentation spots, and can be used while you are undergoing other treatments.

Back to Top

 

5. What is Lumixyl?

Lumixyl Brightening System can help reduce age spots and hyperpigmentation. Lumixyl is an alternative to hydroquinone. Based on a series of naturally-occurring peptides, this new product is sold in physicians' offices and is applied topically. It works by reducing melanin, but does so without the irritation or other side effects associated with Hydroquinone or Retin-A.

Back to Top

 

6. What are the risks associated with hyperpigmentation removal?

The risks associated with hyperpigmentation removal vary by treatment. Be sure to discuss procedure-specific risks with your doctor prior to treatment.

Back to Top

 

7. What should I expect after my hyperpigmentation treatment?

It will vary depending on which treatment you receive. Ask your physician what type of recovery you should anticipate, and plan for.

Back to Top