Shedding light on effective and safe treatment of dark spots

Mitchell Dermatology is a board-certified medical and cosmetic dermatology practice with extensive experience treating hyperpigmentation and other forms of skin discoloration. Special cells called melanocytes give your skin, eyes, and hair their pigment or color. When exposed to ultraviolet light from the sun’s rays, melanocytes respond by producing more melanin. This increase in melanin can produce areas of highly concentrated pigment. These spots, splotches, patches, or dots may be darker than the surrounding skin.

Getting to the root of the problem

Dark areas secondary to other conditions require swift and appropriate treatment. It is essential to get conditions such as acne or eczema under control to avoid the lingering effects of past outbreaks and flares, notably “post-inflammatory” hyperpigmentation (PIH) and scars. 

In addition to exposure to harmful UV light from the sun’s rays and tanning lamps, hyperpigmentation may be caused by blue light exposure from mobile devices and hormonal changes, i.e., melasma.

The message is clear: An accurate diagnosis is the start of treatment that promptly improves the appearance of and fades hyperpigmentation. The specific treatment plan depends on what is found following a thorough evaluation. As appropriate, medications may be prescribed. Therapies available at our offices, such as chemical peels, microneedling, and light-based laser treatments, may be a suitable option. 

Trusted care for a diverse array of patients

Our patients have great trust in us, and for good reason. We understand the unique characteristics associated with skin of color and treat darker skin tones in a way that is safe, effective, and minimizes risks. For instance, we appreciate that more melanated skin tends to be at elevated risk of developing hyperpigmentation due to differences in the pigment-producing cells between darker-skinned individuals and their fairer counterparts. 

Dark splotches do not have to be a permanent fixture of your face or body. Contact us to schedule a personalized skin consultation at one of our two northwest Ohio locations: 419.871.3737 (Perrysburg) or 419.871.3636 (Fremont).

Hope Mitchell, MD
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Hope Mitchell, MD, is the founder and medical director of Mitchell Dermatology and an Ohio board-certified medical and cosmetic dermatologist with over 25 years of experience and expertise. Dr. Mitchell obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Biology from the University of Rochester and Doctorate of Medicine from The Medical College of Ohio, where she also completed an internship in Internal Medicine and a Pathology Fellowship. She also completed a residency in dermatology at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan, and is certified by the American Board of Dermatology. She advocates mentorship, education, and diversity in medicine and dermatology. She is the founder of the Mitchell Dermatology Student Gap Year Internship Program. She has been featured in many newspapers and magazines and is also a speaker for Google and Black Women in Media too. Dr. Mitchell is the Vice Chair and Director of Research for The National Medical Association, Dermatology Section. She is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology, a Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology and American Society for Dermatologic Surgery, and a Member of the Skin of Color Society and National Medical Association.

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