Hyperpigmentation Treatment Options

Hyperpigmentation is usually a harmless condition where certain areas of the skin darken in comparison to the skin surrounding them. This condition occurs when excess melanin (which is the brown pigment that renders the skin its color) causes deposits on the skin.

Certain kinds of pigmentation such as those due to acne can lighten over time even without treatment. However, most cases of discoloration require treatment with strong, active ingredients, and non cosmetic surgery in-office procedures to eliminate these surface spots.

plastic surgeon Dr. David Kim provides breast lift to patients in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles and surrounding communities.

Microdermabrasion for Minimal Darkness

In microdermabrasion, the topmost layer of the skin is delicately removed to address darkness, sunspots, and other such minimal and superficial pigmentation. Some microdermabrasion procedures encompass an additional step, in which special anti-pigment ingredients are suffused in the skin to create a brighter effect.

Chemical Peels for Stubborn Spots

Patients may be offered glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and TCA chemical peels to address discoloration. Chemical peels are quite effective at providing quicker results and eradicating deeper pigment. The provider can alter the potency of chemical peels to be suitable for the depth and type of procedure. But a peel is not ideal for every skin type and color. If the patient has skin that scars easily, then they should consider alternative options.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) for Discoloration from the Sun

IPL is a sought-after option for the treatment of discoloration due to sun exposure. This treatment encompasses light-based energy that is pulsed on the skin while targeting blood vessels at the same time. The light identifies the discoloration of the skin and lifts it away. The treatment areas may turn dark and experience flaking after a few days.

Fractional Laser for Stubborn Discoloration

Fractional laser is the most effective and intense alternative available for the treatment of stubborn pigmentation. Advanced laser techniques cause controlled and safe micro-injuries to the skin. These injuries stimulate the skin’s own healing mechanism. This helps in diminishing the discoloration leading to fresh, more youthful-looking skin to surface.

Obagi for Less Intensive Treatment

Obagi prescription skin care range is a good option for patients who do not want to undergo more intensive or plastic surgery treatments that may need longer recovery. Obagi offers a wide array of products for skin care that are available on a dermatologist’s prescription.

Other Treatment Suggestions

A combination of over the counter topical skincare products that comprise active ingredients (such as niacinamide or soy) may assist in brightening the skin and are good for everyday usage.

The use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is strongly recommended to avoid further skin darkening.

A treatment provider can customize a patient’s treatment plan by the extent and seriousness of the pigmentation and their skin tone. The treatment may involve a single therapy or a combination of various therapies.  

Experienced cosmetic surgeon Dr. David Kim receives patients from Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, and nearby areas for breast lift surgery.

For more information on the surgical and non-surgical procedures and treatments by Cosmetic Plastic Surgeons Dr. David Kim and Dr. Eugene Kim, contact us (310) 271-6996 at or click here.

Serving Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, West Hollywood, Orange County, Southern California and surrounding areas.