Hyperpigmentation

Uneven skin tone (hyperpigmentation) is usually harmless, but it can make some people feel self-conscious. At Open Door Medical Clinic in Great Falls, Montana, osteopathic medicine specialists Melonie Parmley, DO, Ardine Balili, PAC, and the team offer an array of hyperpigmentation treatments. Schedule an appointment by calling the office or booking a visit online today.

What is hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is a common condition that makes some areas of the skin darker than others. It might appear as: 

• Sun spots 
• Age spots 
• Other darkened skin patches 
• Freckles

Hyperpigmentation is caused by extra melanin that creates patches or spots that often appear black, brown, gray, pink, or red. 

While usually not a cause for concern, you may not like the way hyperpigmentation looks. Open Door Medical Clinic offers numerous effective treatments.

What are the risk factors for hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation risk factors may include:

• Unprotected sun exposure
• Aging
• Genetics 
• Adrenal disorders
• Diabetes
• Thyroid disorders
• Hormone changes
• Melasma
• Some medications
• Acne
• Dermatitis
• Skin injuries
• Birth marks
• Rosacea 
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Pregnancy 
• Smoking
• Heavy metal exposure
• Cancer

The cause of hyperpigmentation isn’t always known, but treatment can correct any concerns you might have and boost your skin’s overall appearance and your self-confidence. 

Usually, hyperpigmentation is simply a nuisance and not anything to be alarmed about. However, skin cancer can also cause pigment changes. See the Open Door Medical Clinic experts if you notice new or changing skin spots. 

How is hyperpigmentation diagnosed?

To learn more about your hyperpigmentation, the Open Door Medical Clinic experts review your:

• Medical history 
• Medications 
• Symptoms 
• Lifestyle 

They examine your skin, sometimes under a special type of light. Your provider may order blood tests to assess thyroid function, hormone levels, nutrient status, and more. You might also complete a skin biopsy.

How is hyperpigmentation treated? 

Your personalized hyperpigmentation treatment plan at Open Door Medical Clinic may consist of one or more of the following solutions:

• Sun exposure protection
• Medication changes
• Vitamin supplements
• Over-the-counter creams or ointments
• Prescription topical medicines
• Chemical peels
• Laser skin resurfacing
• Cryotherapy 
• Microneedling 
• Microdermabrasion 

It’s helpful to protect your skin from the sun with sunscreen or protective clothing, eat a balanced diet, and take a multivitamin supplement if asked to. 

Your Open Door Medical Clinic provider can refer you to another specialist if you have signs of skin cancer. 

Follow up with the Open Door Medical Clinic experts as requested, and call the office at any time with questions.

Schedule a hyperpigmentation evaluation at Open Door Medical Clinic by calling the office or booking a visit online today.