Chevy Chase
Kent Island
Chevy Chase, Maryland

Pigmentation Disorder Treatment in Chevy Chase and Eastern Shore of Maryland

Dark spots, melasma and uneven skin tone are among the most common reasons patients visit a dermatologist. They’re usually harmless but often stubborn. At Cronin Dermatology, we find what is causing your discoloration and combine prescription skincare, chemical peels and laser treatments for clearer, more even skin. We see patients in Chevy Chase and Kent Island, Maryland.
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Why Dermatologist for Hyperpigmentation

Why Choose a Dermatologist for Hyperpigmentation?

Skin color comes from melanin. Too much makes patches look darker (hyperpigmentation), and too little makes them look lighter (hypopigmentation). Each type needs a different treatment, and the wrong one can make some types worse. A dermatologist also checks that a dark spot isn’t skin cancer before treating it. The most common types we treat:

Sun spots and age spots: Flat, tan-to-brown spots on the face, hands, chest and arms caused by years of UV exposure.
Melasma: Brown or gray-brown patches on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip and jawline, linked to hormones, genetics, sun and heat. It often flares in summer and needs long-term control.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Darkening left after acne, eczema, cuts, burns or procedures. It’s more common and longer-lasting in medium and darker skin tones.
Freckles and other brown spots, including seborrheic keratoses.
Vitiligo and other light spots: Including tinea versicolor, a common fungal infection. [Confirm current vitiligo treatments offered.]

What to Expect

When Will I See Results From Hyperpigmentation Treatment?

Sun spots often lighten within one to three BBL or laser sessions, spaced about a month apart. Melasma and PIH usually take two to three months of consistent treatment to show clear improvement. To protect your results, wear SPF 30+ daily, reapply every two hours outdoors, wear a hat, limit heat if you have melasma, and don’t pick at acne or scabs.

What Treatments Does a Dermatologist Offer for Pigmentation?

Prescription topicals: Hydroquinone, cysteamine, tretinoin and other retinoids, azelaic acid and tranexamic acid. These are stronger and more targeted than over-the-counter products.
Chemical peels: Mandelic acid peels are gentle enough for melasma, TCA peels lift sun spots and PIH, and salicylic acid peels are a safe choice for darker skin tones.
BBL/IPL photofacial: Targets brown spots and sun damage on the face, neck, chest and hands.
Laser resurfacing: Fractional and hybrid lasers like Halo and ProFractional fade spots and stimulate collagen.
Diamond Glow Facial and microdermabrasion: Exfoliate while infusing brightening serums, with no downtime.
Medical-grade skincare: Vitamin C, gentle exfoliants and daily mineral sunscreen to maintain results.

For medium and darker skin, Dr. Cronin selects settings, peel strengths and products that are safe for your skin type, often preparing the skin with topical treatment first.
Candidacy

Am I a Good Candidate for Hyperpigmentation Treatment?

If you have dark spots, melasma or uneven tone that hasn't improved with over-the-counter products, you're likely a good candidate. Treatments are available for every skin tone. If you're pregnant or nursing, some options will need to wait, and Dr. Cronin will recommend safe alternatives.

Reviews

What our patients are saying

“On time, efficient, and professional. Addressed my concerns and answered all of my questions.”

Allen G.

Reppster

“Love Dr. Cronin!!! Everything was perfect, and everyone was very attentive and efficient.”

Liz F.

Reppster

“Dr. Cronin was very knowledgeable and professional. It was a quick visit but I was totally satisfied.”

Norma Stern

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Common questions

Frequently asked questions

It depends on the type. Sun spots respond well to BBL/IPL, lasers and TCA peels. Melasma usually needs prescription creams, gentle peels and strict sun protection. PIH improves with topicals and peels suited to your skin tone. A dermatologist can tell you which type you have.
Melasma can’t be permanently cured, but it can be significantly lightened and controlled. Prescription topicals, chemical peels, daily sunscreen and avoiding heat work best together. Ongoing maintenance helps prevent flares, especially in summer.
Some lasers are safe for darker skin with the right device and settings, but others can trigger new pigmentation. Gentle chemical peels and prescription topicals are often the first choice. Dr. Cronin tailors every plan to your skin type.
New dark patches are most often caused by melasma, sun exposure or inflammation from acne or irritation. Hormonal changes from pregnancy or birth control are common triggers. Have any new or changing spot checked to rule out other causes.
Products with vitamin C, niacinamide or retinol can help mild discoloration, but they’re weaker than prescription options. If your spots haven’t improved after two to three months, or keep getting darker, see a dermatologist.
Yes, especially melasma and sun spots, since sun, heat and hormones can trigger new pigment. Daily sunscreen and a maintenance skincare routine are the best ways to keep results. Many patients also schedule occasional touch-up peels or BBL sessions.

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Insurance information

See the plans we accept at both Chevy Chase and Kent Island, and what to know about coverage.
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Where Is the Best Place to Find Hyperpigmentation Treatment in Chevy Chase, Eastern Shore and serving Delaware?

If dark spots or melasma are holding you back, our team can help. Call 301-986-1880 (Chevy Chase) or 410-591-1140 (Kent Island) to schedule a consultation.

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Main office

Chevy Chase Patients

5530 Wisconsin Ave #1418, Chevy Chase, MD 20815

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Eastern shore office

Kent Island Patients

1630 Main Street, Suite 204, Chester, MD 21619

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Take the first step toward being cancer free. Our team responds to every request within one business day.
Main office

Chevy Chase, MD

5530 Wisconsin Ave #1418, Chevy Chase, MD 20815

Eastern shore office

Kent Island, MD

1630 Main Street, Suite 204, Chester, MD 21619

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