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Is it heat induced hyperpigmentation or something else??

Updated: Sep 8, 2023

We are often asked “Why am I suddenly getting hyperpigmentation?”

First of all, let’s address types of hyperpigmentation


In women, melasma often fades on its own after pregnancy or after an affected woman goes off birth control pills.


Melasma or Cloasma: Defined as a skin condition that can affect 50-70% of pregnant women. Also known as 'the mask of pregnancy,' and is characterized by symmetrical patches of dark skin, commonly seen on the cheeks, upper lip, forehead, and chin, that can resemble a mask pattern, almost like a raccoon.


Dreaded AGE SPOTS AKA Liver Spots: These are defined as Flat tan, brown, or black spots on the skin common with age.

Older adults, people with fair skin, and people who've spent lots of time in the sun are most prone to liver spots.

The main symptom is a dark spot on the skin. They appear most often on sun-exposed areas, such as the face, hands, shoulders, and arms.

Age spots are harmless and don't need treatment. In some cases, prescription creams and procedures can remove them or make them less noticeable.


Causes of hyperpigmentation include: Skin inflammation (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) Use of certain drugs (such as minocycline, certain cancer chemotherapies, and birth control pills) Hormone system diseases such as Addison disease.

Exposure to LIGHT; UVA, UVB, LED overhead lights even the BBQ Grill! Have you considered the hairdryer? Yep! What about the oven? That too. If you are exposed repeatedly to any “hot” surface or area or light rays listed above, your skin is at risk of hyperpigmentation-


Your skin therapist will use something called The Fitzpatrick scale to gauge which skin treatment is best for your skins affected area. The Fitzpatrick scale is a valuable resource for laser technicians, estheticians and aesthetic physicians to determine the effectiveness of cosmetic laser treatments on varying skin types. Skin lasers have multiple modalities that need to be perfected to match each skin type.


Here are some treatments and products that combat melanocytes and strengthen the skin:


😎Mandaleic Acid Peels-Mandelic acid is a type of gentle alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). It may help reduce acne, fine lines, and wrinkles and improve the appearance of uneven skin. As a person ages, skin renewal slows down, causing the skin to lose elasticity, discolor, and develop fine lines and wrinkles.

🍊Nano Needling with Vitamin C Infusion-

Nano needling helps with deeper product penetration of pure medical grade vitamin C- crystal encapsulated L-Ascorbic Acid.

The skin is strengthened and pore size visibly smaller with after care in 12 days.


🪸Look for “Reef Friendly” sunscreens. What does “Reef-safe” or “Reef-friendly” Sunscreen Mean? Terms like “reef-safe” or “reef-friendly” are typically used to identify sunscreens that do not contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, two common UV-blocking chemicals, that studies have shown can cause coral bleaching.


😎Physical sun blocks. Big hats! Long sleeves! Cover up! There is great gear out there these days that’s cool to wear, breathable and will protect your skin.


Laser treatments to permanently remove and/or lighten the affected area.


Whatever the mode of treatment, there are many reputable licensed clinicians in the Wimberley area available to help and treat your hyperpigmentation. Reach out and you’re sure to find one to suit your needs.



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