Uneven Pigmentation Treatment Near Chicago, IL

If you’re struggling with uneven pigmentation, the experts at Advanced Dermatology are here to help. Hyperpigmentation is challenging to correct, and we treat each case with the utmost care. We offer a range of techniques to help you transform your skin and regain confidence.

Choosing the Right Uneven Pigmentation Treatment

The right treatment for evening out your skin tone depends on the underlying cause, and accurate diagnosis is the first step in creating a personalized plan.

Topical treatments: We may recommend using lightening agents and defensive sun protection to even out skin tone.

Laser treatments: In some instances, Q-switched laser, IPL Photorejuvenation, and fractional resurfacing are effective treatments.

Chemical peels: We may also recommend a chemical peel to increase cell turnover and speed up new skin development.

Causes of Hyperpigmentation

Uneven pigmentation can result from a variety of factors, each requiring a unique treatment approach. Common causes include:

Melasma: Melasma is a chronic skin condition that causes symmetrical patches of brown or gray-brown pigmentation, often on the cheeks, forehead, or upper lip. It’s commonly triggered by sun exposure, hormonal changes, or pregnancy (sometimes called the “mask of pregnancy”).
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark spots that remain after inflammation or injury, often caused by acne, eczema, insect bites, or cosmetic procedures. These marks can take months to fade and are more common in medium to dark skin tones.
Sun damage (solar lentigines): Also known as sun spots or age spots, these flat brown spots develop over time from chronic UV exposure, particularly on areas like the face, chest, shoulders, and hands.
Pityriasis alba: A condition seen mostly in children or teens, characterized by light, scaly patches on the face or arms. It’s not harmful and is often linked to dry skin or mild eczema.
Genetics and aging: Some people are genetically predisposed to uneven pigmentation, and skin cell turnover slows with age, making pigment irregularities more noticeable over time.

Proper diagnosis by a dermatologist is essential to determine the root cause of your discoloration and to develop the most effective treatment plan.

Schedule a Consultation

Advanced Dermatology is located near the North Shore, with offices in Lincolnshire and Glencoe. We can assist you with concerns surrounding cosmetics, aging, skin-related medical concerns, and much more. Contact Advanced Dermatology today to set up your consultation.

FAQs About Uneven Pigmentation

What does uneven pigmentation look like?

Uneven pigmentation can appear as dark spots, blotchy patches, redness, or lightened areas of skin. It often affects the face, neck, chest, and arms, and may worsen with sun exposure, hormonal changes, or inflammation.

How long does it take to see results?

The timeline for visible results depends on the treatment approach and the severity of the pigmentation. While topical treatments may take 6-12 weeks of consistent use to show gradual improvement, a chemical peel or laser treatment could show results in a week or two.

Every patient responds differently, so your provider will guide expectations based on your skin type, pigmentation depth, and treatment plan.

How many sessions will it take?

The number of sessions needed varies depending on the treatment type and the underlying cause of your pigmentation:

Topicals: These are often part of a long-term regimen and are used daily for maintenance and gradual improvement.
Chemical peels: Typically, a series of three treatments spaced 2–3 weeks apart is recommended. To maintain optimal long-term results, ongoing maintenance sessions every 1–3 months may also be advised.
Laser treatments: Mild pigmentation may improve after just 1–2 sessions, but more stubborn cases (like melasma or sun damage) may require 3–5 treatments for best results.

A customized treatment plan will be developed during your consultation to determine the best timeline for your skin goals.

Will the discoloration come back?

Treated pigmentation may return if exposed to sun, hormones, or inflammation. To prevent recurrence, ongoing sun protection, maintenance treatments, and proper skin care are essential.

Are any of the treatments painful?

Most patients tolerate pigmentation treatments well. While topicals may cause mild dryness or tingling, peels can create a stinging sensation during application and lasers may feel like a warm snap against the skin. Discomfort is typically mild and temporary.

How do I prepare for pigmentation treatment?

We typically recommend: