Melasma and Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation Treatment in Albuquerque, NM
What Are Melasma and Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation?
Melasma is a patchy, often symmetrical form of facial pigmentation frequently linked to hormonal changes and sun exposure. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is darkened skin left behind after acne, injury, or irritation, often appearing as smaller, more localized patches. Both tend to persist despite inconsistent treatment plans. At Enhanced Wellness NM in Albuquerque, we offer melasma treatment as well as targeted support for post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, built around which type of pigmentation you have and what’s driving it before recommending a plan.
What Causes Melasma and Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation?
These two forms of pigmentation share some triggers but have different underlying drivers.
Hormonal Fluctuation
Melasma is strongly linked to shifts in estrogen and progesterone, including pregnancy, hormonal contraception, and perimenopause.
UV Exposure
Sun exposure activates pigment-producing cells and can worsen both melasma and post-inflammatory pigmentation.
Prior Inflammation or Injury
Acne, skin irritation, or trauma can trigger excess pigment production as part of the healing response.
Chronic Low-Grade Inflammation
Ongoing inflammation can prolong or worsen pigment irregularities.
What Body Systems Do We Evaluate?
- Skin structure and pigment-producing cells
- Hormonal status, when melasma is suspected
- Circulation and inflammatory activity in the skin
Appropriate Testing for Melasma and Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
Visual assessment to distinguish melasma from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Fitzpatrick skin type assessment to guide product and device selection
Functional medicine hormone evaluation, when melasma and hormonal fluctuation are suspected
Review of your health history, medications, and hormonal factors relevant to treatment candidacy
The Restore Facial
Uses your own platelet-rich plasma to support the skin’s natural repair process, contributing to a pigmentation correction treatment plan for patients with visible discoloration.
Exosome and Stem Cell Skin Rejuvenation
A regenerative option built on growth factor signaling to support skin renewal, often considered as part of a dark spots treatment plan for patients with discoloration left behind after inflammation or injury.
TheraLight 360+®
Uses red and near-infrared wavelengths to support cellular energy production, which can help calm the skin as part of a broader hyperpigmentation treatment plan.
Peptides
Certain peptides may support skin repair, providing a helpful complement to a broader skin discoloration treatment plan.
Medical-Grade Skin Care
Physician-recommended topical products, including pigment-targeted formulas and daily sun protection, are a foundational part of managing both melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation between visits.
What Your First Visit Involves
A conversation about when your pigmentation began, any hormonal or skin-trigger history, and what an even, clearer complexion would look like for you.
A comprehensive evaluation of your pigment pattern, skin type, and health history.
A tailored treatment plan emphasizing consistent sun protection alongside in-office and topical care.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who may benefit from melasma or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation treatment?
Anyone with persistent patchy pigmentation, including discoloration left by acne or irritation, may benefit from an assessment to determine the right treatment.
How does treatment for melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation work?
Treatment focuses on calming pigment-producing activity, supporting even skin renewal, and protecting against the UV exposure that worsens both conditions, using a combination of options rather than a single device.
What does a session feel like?
In-office treatments are generally comfortable, and your provider will explain what to expect before starting.
How often is treatment recommended?
These conditions typically call for an ongoing plan with consistent sun protection, since both can recur, particularly melasma.
What results can I expect?
Most patients see gradual improvement in pigment evenness over a series of sessions. Melasma, in particular, tends to be a chronic, manageable condition rather than one with a single fix, and your provider will set realistic expectations for your case during your consultation.
Can these options be combined?
Yes. In-office treatments are typically combined with topical care and consistent sun protection, since each addresses a different part of the pattern.
Are there any contraindications?
Pregnancy, certain medications, and active sun exposure can affect timing and candidacy. Your provider will review your history first.
What does treatment cost?
Cost depends on the options and the number of sessions included in your plan. We’ll go over exact pricing once your treatment plan is set.
What is the next step?
Request a consultation so we can determine which type of pigmentation you have and build an appropriate plan.
Ready to Address Your Melasma or Hyperpigmentation?
Request a new patient consultation with Enhanced Wellness NM, and we’ll assess your pigmentation pattern and relevant hormonal factors together before mapping out a plan specific to your goals.
This form is not monitored for medical emergencies. If you are in a medical emergency, please call 911. A member of the Enhanced Wellness NM team will follow up with you within one business day of your request.
book an appointment
Use the form below to request an appointment with our team. Once your request is submitted, we’ll review your information and contact you to confirm your appointment date and time. You will receive a confirmation by phone or email once your appointment has been scheduled.
Important Notice: Contact and appointment request forms are not monitored for medical emergencies. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.
Have questions or are you ready to get started?
Call us at (505) 323 – 8100 to schedule your consultation. Our team will review your history, current concerns, and available options so you can make an informed decision about where to begin.