Almost everyone has some dark spots, blemishes or discoloration of some type. These areas of the skin contain especially high concentrations of melanin and are typically caused by an excess of pigment commonly due to sun exposure, aging or hereditary factors.

​

Dr. Yavari can treat sun-damage, age spots, uneven color, solar lentigines, freckles, melasma and other discolorations with the various lasers and light sources in his office. The most important factor in treating uneven color is first diagnosing these spots and patches properly. Malignant or potentially malignant ones should be first evaluated by a Dermatologist and biopsied if indicated. Dr. Yavari will perform a detailed history and skin evaluation before any laser procedures that may be indicated.

 

Melasma

Melasma is a localized darkness skin problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It is an acquired disorder that primarily affects the sun-exposed areas of the forehead, upper lips, cheeks, and chin. Dr. Yavari offers patients with Melasma treatments to diagnose and treat this skin condition. Melasma has different clinical patterns (where it occurs on the face and forehead) and various depths (epidermal=superficial, dermal=deep, or mixed=very deep).

​

Several other conditions may look like Melasma, such as PIH (Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation such as dark spots on the site of previous pimples), sunspots and freckles, drug induced darkness, hereditary moles and other conditions.

Risk factors include but are not limited to: genetics, exposure to ultraviolet light (sun), pregnancy, and oral contraceptives.

A proper medical history, review of all medications, and a detailed physical examination are the keys to diagnosing and treating Melasma. 

​

As there are multiple forms of Melasma, treatment also varies. Sunscreens, camouflage, topical products, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, lasers and light sources are all used to treat Melasma. Each patient's Melasma is as variable as the disease itself; therefore, Dr. Yavari performs a detailed history and physical examination, takes clinical photographs, recommends a specific skin care regimen and performs different procedures based on the patient's needs. If treated properly, Melasma can be well controlled, and eventually the patients may be on maintenance therapy.

 

What is the MOST IMPORTANT question I should ask about my "dark spot(s)"?

Is it benign? You should be evaluated by a Dermatologist for an evaluation to determine if your skin lesion is benign or potentially dangerous.

 

What if my "dark spot" appears suspicious?

Then you will need a skin biopsy by a Dermatologist for a diagnosis.

 

How do I know which treatment to begin with?

You will undergo Skin Analysis with a special camera which will help Dr. Yavari better identify your particular condition. After your Skin Analysis, he will design your individualized treatment plan according to your specific needs.

 

Which treatments would be best for MY SKIN?

That would depend on your particular condition. He would most likely begin with a combination of skin care and a procedure.

 

How much does a laser treatment cost for “dark spots” (age spots)?

The cost of a laser treatment depends on the diagnosis of the black spots, the size and the specific type of laser being used.

 

Is there a laser for treating age spots?

There are a multitude of devices that can treat pigmentation: IPL (photo facial), long pulsed lasers, and q-switch lasers. Picoway/Nanosecond laser In order to find the best laser for your needs, first you need to be properly evaluated by a dermatologist to make sure the dark spots (age spots) are not suspicious or malignant. Then it will depend on your skin type, the kind of discoloration, how long you have had the problem, the location, and if they are light or dark.

 

Are there treatments available to help with dark spots (PIH = Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation) for darker skin patients?

PIH Is a condition where dark spots appear on the skin after inflammation or a procedure. Darker skin patients usually suffer more from PIH especially caused by acne, eczema, folliculitis, or a cosmetic procedure such as lasers or chemical peels. These types of conditions or treatments cause the melanocytes to produce more than normal melanin which causes dark spots. PIH can be treated, but treatment is based on individual needs, physical exam, and medical history.