Board-Certified Dermatologist | 34+ Years Experience
Hyperpigmentation is a common skin concern that causes areas of the skin to appear darker than the surrounding skin. Dark spots and uneven pigmentation can develop for many reasons, including acne and inflammation, sun exposure, hormonal changes, and other forms of skin irritation.
At Yolanda C. Holmes, M.D., P.C., Dr. Holmes provides personalized evaluation and treatment for hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone in Washington, DC. As a board-certified dermatologist with more than 34 years of experience and a focus on skin of color, Dr. Holmes considers the underlying cause of pigmentation when developing an individualized treatment plan.
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Hyperpigmentation occurs when areas of the skin become darker than the surrounding skin due to increased or uneven production or distribution of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color.
Hyperpigmentation can appear as individual dark spots, patches, or areas of uneven skin tone. The appearance and cause can vary from person to person, which is why identifying the underlying cause is an important part of treatment.
Hyperpigmentation can develop for a variety of reasons, including:
Because different types of pigmentation can require different approaches, a dermatologic evaluation can help determine what may be contributing to your discoloration.
Dark spots can develop after acne, rashes, irritation, or other inflammation has healed. PIH can be particularly noticeable in patients with darker skin tones.
Melasma causes areas of brown or gray-brown discoloration, most commonly on the face. Hormonal changes and sun exposure can contribute to its development.
Repeated sun exposure can contribute to dark spots and uneven skin tone, particularly on areas that receive frequent sun exposure.
Acne can leave behind dark marks even after the active breakout has resolved. These marks are often PIH rather than true acne scars.
Learn more about Acne Treatment → and Acne Scar Treatment →
Not necessarily. Dark marks left behind after acne are often a form of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which affects the color of the skin but does not change its texture.
Acne scars, on the other hand, can cause changes in the texture of the skin, such as depressed or raised scars.
Some patients may have both pigmentation and acne scarring. Identifying the difference can help determine which treatment approach may be most appropriate.
Learn more about Acne Treatment → and Acne Scar Treatment →
Hyperpigmentation can be an especially frustrating concern for patients with skin of color. Skin may develop darker marks following acne, inflammation, irritation, or certain procedures.
Dr. Holmes considers skin tone, pigmentation history, underlying cause, and individual skin characteristics when developing a treatment plan.
Treatment should be selected carefully based on the type of pigmentation and the patient's individual needs.
Learn more about Dermatology for Skin of Color in Washington, DC →
Consider scheduling a dermatology evaluation if:
A dermatologist can help determine the likely cause of pigmentation and whether treatment may be appropriate.
Evaluating hyperpigmentation begins with understanding when the discoloration developed and what may have contributed to it.
Dr. Holmes may consider:
This information can help determine whether the pigmentation may be related to acne, inflammation, sun exposure, melasma, or another cause.
Treatment for hyperpigmentation depends on the type, cause, location, and characteristics of the pigmentation.
Depending on your individual needs, treatment may include topical skin-care products, chemical peels, laser or light-based treatments, or other skin-resurfacing approaches.
Dr. Holmes will evaluate your skin and recommend an approach based on the type of pigmentation being treated and your individual goals.
Certain chemical peels can help improve uneven pigmentation and skin tone. The VI Peel Precision Plus specifically addresses irregular pigmentation, UV-induced hyperpigmentation, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Skin resurfacing treatments may help improve hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, and overall skin texture.
A personalized skin-care regimen may be recommended to complement in-office treatments and support ongoing skin health.
Protecting your skin from UV exposure is an important part of managing pigmentation. Depending on the cause of your hyperpigmentation, your dermatologist may also recommend a consistent skin-care routine and strategies to reduce irritation or inflammation that can contribute to additional discoloration.
Maintaining the results of treatment may require ongoing skin care and sun protection.
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Board-Certified Dermatologist
with 34+ years experience
Specialized Expertise
in treating skin of color and pigmentation
Individualized Treatment Plans
based on your skin type and concerns
Advanced Treatment Options
chemical peels, skin resurfacing & more
Convenient Location
1737 20th Street NW, Washington, DC
Recognized
2025 Best Dermatologist in Dupont Circle
Dr. Yolanda C. Holmes is a board-certified dermatologist with more than 34 years of experience serving patients in Washington, DC.
Her approach to hyperpigmentation focuses on understanding the underlying cause of discoloration and developing an individualized treatment plan based on each patient's skin characteristics, concerns, and goals.
With a focus on skin of color, Dr. Holmes understands the importance of considering pigmentation when evaluating and treating a variety of skin concerns.
Learn more about Dr. Holmes →
If you're concerned about hyperpigmentation, dark spots, or uneven skin tone, a dermatology evaluation can help determine what's causing the discoloration and what treatment options may be appropriate for your skin.
Schedule a Hyperpigmentation Consultation in Washington, DC
