PIGMENTATION DISORDERS

OVERVIEW

Pigmentation disorders are conditions that affect the color of the skin, resulting in areas that appear darker, lighter, or uneven compared to surrounding skin. These changes occur due to alterations in melanin production, distribution, or loss.

Pigmentary conditions are common and may affect patients of all ages and skin types. While many are benign, some require careful medical evaluation to establish an accurate diagnosis, distinguish them from other skin diseases, and guide appropriate management.

Pigmentary disorders are frequently misinterpreted as cosmetic concerns, but many involve underlying inflammatory, hormonal, autoimmune, infectious, or sun-related processes.

COMMON PIGMENTATION DISORDERS

Frequently evaluated pigmentary conditions include:

• Post-Inflammatory Pigment Changes (Hyperpigmentation & Hypopigmentation)
  Darkened or lightened patches that develop after skin inflammation or injury, such as acne, eczema, procedures, or trauma.
• Melasma
  Symmetrical brown or gray-brown patches, most often on the face, commonly associated with hormonal influences and sun exposure.
• Vitiligo
  An autoimmune condition characterized by loss of pigment, resulting in well-defined depigmented patches.
• Solar Lentigines & Ephelides
  Sun-induced pigment changes, including age spots and freckles, related to cumulative ultraviolet exposure.
• Melanocytic Nevi (Moles)
  Commonly evaluated pigmented lesions that may be congenital or acquired and occasionally require monitoring or biopsy.
• Pityriasis Versicolor
  A superficial fungal infection that alters skin pigmentation, leading to lighter or darker patches, particularly on the trunk.

WHY MEDICAL EVALUATION MATTERS

Pigmentary disorders may:

• Share overlapping appearances despite different causes
• Change over time or recur
• Be influenced by sun exposure, inflammation, hormones, or immune factors
• Require different management strategies depending on the diagnosis

Accurate evaluation is essential before treatment is considered, particularly when procedural or laser-based therapies are being discussed.

MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS

Management of pigmentation disorders depends on the underlying cause, depth of pigment involvement, skin type, and individual risk factors.

Treatment strategies may include:

• Addressing underlying inflammation or triggers
• Sun protection and preventive measures
• Medical therapies when indicated
• Procedural or laser treatments in carefully selected cases, after appropriate diagnosis

Not all pigmentary conditions benefit from procedural treatment, and improper treatment may worsen pigmentation.

CARE APPROACH

Our practice evaluates pigmentary disorders using a medical, diagnosis-driven approach. Care is tailored to each patient’s condition, skin type, and long-term management needs.

📞 Call (847) 518-9999 to schedule a consultation.

MEDICAL DISCLOSURE

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace a personalized medical evaluation. Treatment recommendations vary based on individual clinical findings. Outcomes may vary, and no specific medical or cosmetic result can be guaranteed.

Learn more about specific pigmentary disorders:

• Melasma
• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
• Melanocytic Nevi