It’s well known that our skin’s pigmentation comes from melanin, and the amount in our bodies can vary as we age. However, new research suggests that people with darker skin are much more susceptible to hyperpigmentation problems as they get older. Because dark or ethnic skin actually has much more melanin than lighter skin, it is much easier to damage, which comes in many forms, including brown spots from acne, sun damage, and the natural aging process. At Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego, our world-class dermatologists have the ability to help combat dark spots in ethnic skinned patients with the help of several different treatments.
Dark Spots In Ethnic Skin
One of the many common culprits for dark spots in dark skin is called melasma. Melasma occurs as brown splotchiness on our face, mostly affecting the forehead, upper lip, jawline, and cheeks. Because the darker skin has more melanin than lighter skin, melasma can be more common. Melasma arises as a result of both hormones and light, where hormones stimulate the growth of melanocytes (cells that produce brown pigment), and light produces even more melanin.
The best prevention method for melasma is sunblock, with a proper regimen of at least SPF 30 whenever participating in an outdoor activity. When melasma occurs, an initial step taken by most patients is the use of chemical peels, which allow for facial rejuvenation and the diminishment of hyperpigmentation. Glycolic peels at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology are performed in-office and do not require any downtime, allowing patients to see results in the days following as their skin continues to heal and rejuvenate.
IPL Treatment For Dark Spots
IPL Photofacial lasers at our medical practice can be used to combat dark age spots and acne marks in ethnic patients experiencing pigmentation problems. This laser treatment improves the appearance of skin and removes age spots by using light to penetrate your skin. When the laser penetrates your skin, it becomes absorbed by melanin deep within the surface of our skin. Then, your body naturally removes injured tissue, which results in a more youthful and rejuvenated appearance.
At Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego, our team of expert dermatologists have a unique experience in treating darker skinned patients with lasers. It’s important to remember that lasers work differently on all skin types and that one laser will not work to correct both dark and light skin. Our dermatologists have a plethora of lasers and a wide selection that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of your skin. Clinical trials of other treatments for melasma are also underway that you can check out here.
Speak With An Experienced Dermatologist Today
If you’re beginning to notice dark under eye bags or pigmentation problems with your dark skin, taking the first step to combat their appearance comes when you contact the world-renowned dermatologists at Cosmetic Laser Dermatology in San Diego. With a unique knowledge in non-invasive skin treatments and with more than 35 anti-aging and skin repairing lasers, our doctors are confident in their ability to help you overcome under eye bags.
For further information and to speak with a board-certified dermatologist in San Diego, please call (858) 943-2113 to schedule your initial consultation today.
Next, read our blog, Fighting the Early Signs of Aging.
