How do dermatologists treat skin discoloration?

Author: Jan Zboncak  |  Last update: Sunday, April 13, 2025

Medications. Applying prescription bleaching creams (hydroquinone) alone or with retinoids (tretinoin) and a mild steroid might gradually fade the spots over several months. The treatments might cause temporary itching, redness, burning or dryness. Laser and intense pulsed light.

Can a dermatologist fix skin discoloration?

Whether it's addressing melasma, hyperpigmentation, or other concerns, our dermatologists offer personalized solutions. Treatment options include specialized creams, cutting-edge laser treatments, and rejuvenating peels designed to diminish discoloration and restore your skin's natural tone and texture.

What is the best treatment for skin discoloration?

Some common treatments for skin discoloration issues are:
  • Antifungal ointments, creams and shampoos.
  • Creams or lotions to lighten or fade dark spots or patches.
  • Chemical peels.
  • Laser skin treatments.
  • Dermabrasion.
  • Makeup to hide the discoloration.
  • Surgery.

Can a dermatologist fix uneven skin tone?

Severe or persistent dark spots can often be treated using an in-office procedure. There are multiple treatments, and your dermatologist can recommend the best option to help fix an uneven skin tone.

Can skin discoloration be reversed?

Is skin discoloration reversible? The reversibility of skin discoloration depends on the cause. Dermatologists can recommend treatments such as topical creams, laser therapy, or chemical peels based on the specific condition.

Dermatologist Explains Body Hyperpigmentation: What Causes It, Best Treatments, Prevention, & More!

How long does it take to fix skin discoloration?

A spot that is a few shades darker than your natural skin color will usually fade within 6 to 12 months. If the color lies deep in your skin, however, fading can take years. Discoloration that lies deep in the skin is often slate blue to gray in color.

What are the three common types of discoloration?

Skin discoloration can be a source of concern, but understanding its underlying causes is the first step toward finding effective solutions. Whether it's hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, or vascular issues, there are various treatment options available to help restore a more even and radiant complexion.

Is uneven skin the same as hyperpigmentation?

Dark marks can include post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or other types of localized skin hyperpigmentation. Uneven skin tone refers to an overall uneven distribution of colour or pigmentation on the skin's surface.

What is the most effective skin resurfacing treatment?

CO2 laser resurfacing has been successfully used to treat wrinkles and scars as well as other benign skin growths such as warts, birthmarks, rhinophyma (enlarged oil glands on the nose), and other skin conditions. Recovery time with CO2 laser resurfacing is up to two weeks.

How to get glass skin?

Here are a few clear skin tips to help you on your journey toward healthy-looking glass skin.
  1. Double cleanse. ...
  2. Use an exfoliator. ...
  3. Apply a hydrating serum. ...
  4. Reach for a sheet mask. ...
  5. Layer on a lightweight moisturizer. ...
  6. Always finish with sunscreen.

What vitamin gets rid of discoloration?

Vitamins can be used to lighten your skin and lighten dark spots. Three of the best vitamins for lightening dark spots are vitamin C, vitamin B12, and vitamin E. Vitamin C helps your skin produce more collagen while inhibiting the formation of melanin.

Does skin discoloration ever go away?

Depending upon the cause of your hyperpigmentation, it may eventually go away on its own, but melasma—the type that's caused by hormones—is the most stubborn. “Melasma is most common in medium skin tones and it's very difficult to treat.

What medication is used to lighten skin discoloration?

Hydroquinone is most commonly used in bleaching creams by patients aged 13 years and over with a dark skin type. It can be used, often in combination with other medications, to treat: Melasma. Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation such as subsequent to acne.

Does hydrogen peroxide really get rid of age spots?

It works by breaking down the excess melanin in the age spots and gradually reducing their appearance. So, when used properly and in appropriate concentrations, hydrogen peroxide can be an effective and affordable option to remove age spots on the face.

When should I worry about skin discoloration?

Call your health care provider for an appointment if you have: Skin discoloration that causes significant concern. Persistent, unexplained darkening or lightening of the skin. Any skin sore or lesion that changes shape, size, or color may be a sign of skin cancer.

How much does skin resurfacing cost?

Determining the Laser Skin Resurfacing Cost

A single treatment session usually costs between $500 and $3,000. But it's important to keep in mind that you might need more than one lesson to get the results you want.

Is 70 too old for laser resurfacing?

However, treatments are still highly effective beyond these years, with amazing results, so it's never too late! We will always champion people's right to feel good about themselves and to look their best at ANY age.

What do dermatologists recommend for uneven skin tone?

Dermatologists recommend a simple daily routine that includes a cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Exfoliating your skin once or twice a week with a gentle scrub or chemical exfoliant also helps remove dead skin cells and promote cell renewal, revealing a brighter complexion with a more even skin tone.

How do I know if I have hyperpigmentation or melasma?

Melasma often presents as broad patches of discoloration, whereas sun spots and other forms of hyperpigmentation may look like small circles or focused dots. Melasma and hyperpigmentation should be treated cautiously, especially on darker skin tones, as mistreatment of any discoloration can worsen the pigmentation. Dr.

How do I even out my skin tone and get rid of hyperpigmentation?

7 Fixes for an Uneven Skin Tone
  1. Use Sunscreen Daily. The first step to preventing and treating uneven skin tone is protecting your skin from further sun damage. ...
  2. Exfoliate Regularly. ...
  3. Incorporate Brightening Ingredients. ...
  4. Try Chemical Peels. ...
  5. Consider Laser Treatments. ...
  6. Microneedling. ...
  7. Keep Your Skin Hydrated.

What autoimmune disease causes skin discoloration?

Vitiligo is a chronic (long-lasting) autoimmune disorder that causes patches of skin to lose pigment or color. This happens when melanocytes – skin cells that make pigment – are attacked and destroyed, causing the skin to turn a milky-white color.

How to get rid of discoloration down there?

Another way to treat vaginal darkening is to use topical skin lightening creams. These creams typically contain ingredients such as hydroquinone, glycolic acid, or kojic acid, which can help to lighten the skin and reduce the appearance of dark patches.

How to reverse skin discoloration from steroid cream?

There isn't one specific treatment for skin lightening caused by eczema or topical steroids, but you can work with your dermatologist to find a solution that suits your needs.

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