Hyperpigmentation | Central Austin Dermatology & Aesthetics

What Is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition characterized by the darkening or increase in color of certain areas of the skin. This darkening occurs due to the overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. Melanin is produced by cells called melanocytes. Common types of hyperpigmentation include freckles, age spots, melasma, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

What Causes Hyperpigmentation?

Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can stimulate the production of melanin, leading to darkening of the skin.
Inflammation: Skin inflammation or injury, such as acne, can trigger an increased production of melanin.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, especially during pregnancy (melasma or “pregnancy mask”) or due to birth control pills, can contribute to hyperpigmentation.
Certain Medications: Some medications may cause pigmentation changes as a side effect.
Skin Conditions: Certain skin disorders, like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, can result in dark spots after inflammation or injury.

Treatment Options:

Topical medications
Chemical peels
Laser therapy
Other dermatological procedures.

Sun protection is often crucial to prevent further darkening of the affected areas. It’s essential to consult with a dermatologist to determine the underlying cause of hyperpigmentation and the most appropriate treatment approach for individual cases.

Service Locations

34th and West
Anderson Lane

Providers

Simi Cadmus, MD
Courtney Scamardo, PA-C
Shirien O. Coover, PA-C
Jay A. Hendrix, MD

In your own words

Patient Testimonials

Anderson Ln.

Courtney Scarmado was so helpful, informative, and empathetic. The entire staff were friendly and supportive. I would definitely recommend!

- L.H.

Anderson Ln.

I’m happy to say that Dr. Simi Cadmus and PA Courtney Scamardo are continuing Dr. Katherine Farady’s high standards of care and service. Good dermatologists are hard to find; I strongly recommend this entire practice.

- B.E.

34th & West

I’ve been a patient at Central Austin Derm for many many years, and specifically a patient of Shirien for many of those years. I never feel like she is in a rush, even if she is having a busy day. She explains what she is doing, listens to what concerns me, and is warmly professional.

- C.T.

34th & West

I’ve been seeing Shirien Coover PA for several years. She puts me at ease, protecting my dignity and privacy during skin checks, and she is very soothing and as gentle as possible if/when she finds anything that requires removal. She also patiently answers my questions and genuinely wants me to understand the medical terminology. I also find their rates to be affordable and reasonable, which is rare and refreshing where health care costs are concerned.

- J.L.

34th & West

“This was my first visit to Central Austin Dermatology. I was very pleased. The staff was very friendly and welcoming, and the office was very clean and organized. Dr. Hendrix was very thorough, and listened to me when I was describing my concerns. I’ll go back!”

- G.G.

Anderson Ln.

I have seen Courtney for years and travel 2 hours to see her. She is very knowledgeable and I feel like she truly cares about my health. She’s the best!

- P.T.