One writer explores why derm solutions to treat hyperpigmentation in skin of color are very limited.
Here’s what works and what doesnt.
They looked like freckles gone haywire, and I still had my regular freckles on top of that.
No problem, I thought.
Ill just head to my trusty derm so she can laser them off.
Why ishyperpigmentation inskin of color so tricky to treat?
board-certified dermatologist in New York City
All those wonderful stories youve heard about Fraxel and CO2lasers?
you’re able to kiss those skin-brightening benefits goodbye if you have skin of color.
Youd also have to go to the office so many times to see any results.So, what does work?
Heres what I discovered.
Which in-office treatments safely fade spots on skin of color?
But, she adds, theres still a risk ofmorehyperpigmentation.
It comes down to your risk tolerance of something going wrongand I am very risk-averse, says Dr. Woolery-Lloyd.
This helps to prevent overheating the skin.
Not having that lingering heat decreases the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or a possible burn, she shares.
board-certified dermatologist in New York City
But that, too, takes multiple office visits, which means that its expensive.
It is important to convey this to patients from the outset so that realistic expectations are set.
Definitely not the look Im after.
Microneedling
Another option is microneedling, wherein devices create tiny pin-pricks in the skin.
One service I loved was the HydraFacial, which is available at dermatologists offices and med spas.
My technician loaded it with a blend of glycolic and salicylic acids, which can brighten and smooth skin.
Dr. Jagdeo suggests a course of five monthly HydraFacials (again, expensive).
Why are skin of color in-office solutions so limited?
The quest to fade my spots left me wondering why there arent more in-office options for skin of color.
Experts say one reason is a lack of research.
[We] need to continue to shed light on our shortcomings and highlight pioneering solutions forallskin types.
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