Hyperpigmentation can affect the skin in several different ways, with the main types being:
Dark patches
Age spots
Melasma
Hyperpigmentation of any kind is most commonly found on darker skin tones since the condition is caused by excess melanin in the skin – although it can affect all skin tones.
Melasma is more common in women, affecting them 9 times more than men. The statistics rise to up to 50% more during pregnancy. This is likely due to hormones, as it is also a common side effect of birth control. Melasma can be triggered by UV ray exposure and will present itself as brown patches on the face, particularly the nose, cheeks, and forehead, or cover areas of the stomach.
What causes the skin to darken?
If you suffer from hyperpigmentation, don’t worry - it is not generally seen to be harmful or a sign of a serious medical condition. At Pall Mall, we’ll bring you in for a physical exam, take some tests when you’re ready, and prescribe a suitable treatment plan.
Unusual warts, moles, or skin tags
Skin tags are soft growths that can appear on the skin. They are fleshy, skin-coloured, loose mole-like flaps of skin that appear for sometimes no apparent reason.
Good news - skin tags are harmless and can be easily removed. If you have a skin tag (or wart or mole, for that matter) that is concerning you, you can book an appointment with us and we can remove it. First, we’ll numb the area, then apply a freezing or burning solution.
If the skin tag is small enough, the discomfort will be minimal - no more than a pinprick.
Are moles dangerous?
Unlike skin tags, moles can be a health risk, and it is important to get any unusual-looking moles checked as soon as possible.
Most moles are completely safe and normal – but any change in colour, size, or texture is a concern and worth making an appointment for a few weeks of mole mapping and a general assessment of the mole itself.
Mole mapping is a technique to keep track of moles over time using photography. This will help our Dermatologists understand and diagnose any issues with the mole before considering a removal.
Once our Dermatologists are confident the mole is free of any type of skin cancer, such as melanoma, you will have the option to get the mole removed cosmetically with a minor surgery.
Can warts be removed?
Warts in general are not a danger to your health, but if they are itchy, painful, or embarrassing for you, it is time to see a Dermatologist to seek advice on getting them removed. Warts are usually treated with creams, freezing, or a minor surgery.