What causes hyperpigmentation and dark spots?

Hyperpigmentation occurs when melanin—the pigment that gives skin its color—is overproduced in certain areas. Common causes include:

• Sun exposure (UV rays trigger melanin production)
• Hormonal changes (pregnancy, birth control, menopause)
• Post-inflammatory responses (from acne, burns, cuts)
• Genetics and skin type
• Aging (age spots or liver spots)
• Photosensitizing medications

At LegacyMD, we evaluate the underlying cause of your pigmentation before recommending treatment.

How does sun damage affect skin in South Florida?

In a high-UV environment like South Florida, sun damage is accelerated year-round. UV rays:

• Penetrate deep into the dermis
• Trigger free radical damage
• Cause pigmentation, wrinkles, and skin laxity
• Break down collagen and elastin

Patients in West Miami, Westchester, and Coral Gables often experience early signs of photoaging due to daily sun exposure. Professional treatment is essential to reverse and protect against this damage.

What is the Legacy Glow Peel for pigmentation issues?

The Legacy Glow Peel is a custom chemical peel formulated for:

• Uneven skin tone
• Sunspots and freckles
• Melasma
• Acne pigmentation

It contains a blend of alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHAs/BHAs), melanin inhibitors, and vitamins that:

• Exfoliate the top layer of damaged skin
• Suppress melanin production
• Boost cell turnover
• Reveal clearer, more even skin

Results are visible within 1–2 sessions, with little to no downtime.

How does microneedling treat hyperpigmentation?

Microneedling uses ultra-fine needles to create micro-channels in the skin, stimulating collagen and improving texture. For hyperpigmentation, it helps by:

• Breaking up melanin clusters
• Enhancing penetration of brightening serums
• Reducing post-inflammatory pigmentation
• Promoting skin renewal

LegacyMD enhances microneedling with glow serums, polynucleotides, or exosomes for deeper pigment repair and anti-aging benefits.

Can Polynucleotides help with sun damage repair?

Yes. Polynucleotides are DNA fragments derived from salmon or trout that:

• Repair UV-damaged skin
• Boost fibroblast activity and collagen production
• Improve texture and pigmentation
• Calm inflammation

They are safe for sensitive or ethnic skin types and often combined with peels or microneedling for compounded effects.

Which treatment is best for my type of pigmentation?

At LegacyMD, we tailor your care plan based on skin type, pigmentation type, and lifestyle. Common options include:

• Glow Peel – for melasma, uneven tone, sunspots
• Microneedling + serums – for PIH and texture
• Polynucleotides or Exosomes – for deeper damage and inflammation
• Prescription topicals – hydroquinone, tretinoin, antioxidants
• LED Light Therapy – to reduce inflammation and accelerate healing

A consultation determines the most effective combination for your goals.

How many treatments are needed to see improvement?

Most patients require a series of 3–6 treatments spaced 3–4 weeks apart. Visible results include:

• Brightened complexion after 1 session
• Fading of dark spots after 2–3 sessions
• Smoother texture and tone over 3–6 months

LegacyMD monitors your skin’s progress using high-resolution imaging.

Can hyperpigmentation treatments prevent future dark spots?

Yes—when paired with preventive strategies. Treatments help by:

• Stabilizing melanocyte activity
• Reducing inflammation
• Boosting skin barrier and antioxidant defenses

We also recommend:

• Daily SPF 50+ use
• Antioxidant-rich skincare
• Hormonal balancing (if applicable)
• Lifestyle changes (less sun, more hydration, no picking)

Are pigmentation treatments safe for all skin types?

LegacyMD specializes in treating Fitzpatrick Skin Types I–VI, including patients with Latin, African, Asian, and mixed heritage skin. Our protocols are:

• Non-ablative
• Gentle, with minimal downtime
• Designed to reduce risk of post-treatment pigmentation

Each plan is customized for your tone and tolerance level.

What's the recovery time for pigmentation treatments?

Recovery depends on the treatment:

• Glow Peel: mild flaking 2–5 days
• Microneedling: redness for 24–72 hours
• Polynucleotides/Exosomes: no downtime
• Prescription topicals: mild dryness or peeling

Most patients resume regular activities immediately with sun precautions.

How do I prevent hyperpigmentation from returning?

Maintenance is key. LegacyMD provides:

• Monthly skin check-ins
• Ongoing topical regimens
• SPF and antioxidant recommendations
• Quarterly light-based or chemical refreshers

We educate you on triggers like UV exposure, hormonal shifts, heat, and friction to minimize flare-ups.

Why is professional treatment better than over-the-counter products?

OTC products may contain low concentrations of actives or irritants that worsen pigmentation. Medical-grade treatment at LegacyMD offers:

• Proven clinical actives (hydroquinone, retinoids, tranexamic acid)
• Combination therapy
• Safer outcomes with medical oversight
• Long-term prevention plans

You get faster, safer, and more reliable results with expert care.

How does South Florida's climate affect pigmentation treatment?

Florida’s year-round sun, humidity, and heat increase:

• Risk of melanin overproduction
• Post-treatment sensitivity
• Risk of PIH with improper aftercare

That’s why we time treatments carefully, reinforce SPF, and provide detailed home protocols to protect your progress.

Book Your Hyperpigmentation Treatment Consultation at LegacyMD

If dark spots or sun damage are affecting your confidence, LegacyMD offers medically proven solutions customized for your skin type and lifestyle. Dr. Hernandez Loy and our aesthetic experts deliver results-driven care to patients throughout West Miami, Westchester, and Coral Gables.

Clearer skin starts here. Book your pigmentation consultation today and discover your Legacy glow.