Pigmentation Problems — Treating Dark Spots, Melasma & PIH

From stubborn acne marks to melasma and sunspots, unwanted pigmentation is one of the most common reasons people see a dermatologist. In this episode, Dr. Dustin Portela and PA Austin Lee break down the different types of pigmentation, why they happen, and the science behind how to treat them. They cover post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), melasma, sunspots, freckles, and even lighter pigment changes like idiopathic guttate hypomelanosis. You’ll learn why pigmentation is so persistent, how heat and even blue light can make melasma worse, and why sunscreen is always step one. Dustin and Austin also dive into prescription options like hydroquinone, over-the-counter ingredients like kojic acid and niacinamide, and emerging alternatives like thiamidol and melasyl. They also explore in-office options—chemical peels, lasers, and microneedling—and explain which treatments work best for which conditions. This week’s “Did You Know?” reveals just how common pigmentation really is in dermatology offices—and why it often shows up alongside other concerns. Product of the Week — Eucerin Radiant Tone Collection https://amzn.to/42I0pgX Join this channel to get access to perks:    / @drdustinportela   📒 Show Notes and Resources 📒 🧴Recommendations: Connect with me by text message! https://urlgeni.us/textthedoc Get Lifetime Discounts on Neutrogena, EltaMD & More at the SkinStore https://airehealth.com/DrDustinPortela Click here now to shop My Amazon Skincare Recommendations: https://urlgeni.us/amazon/amzon Explore my Dene Products here: https://shop.drdustinportela.com Read my latest Substack here: https://substack.com/@drdustinportela Sign up for my newsletter here: https://shop.drdustinportela.com/page... 🎧 Listen to the podcast here: Watch Skinfluence on YouTube: https://bit.ly/4ctXgEW iHeart Radio: https://ihr.fm/3Gl2XJe Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3G5qEVS Spotify Podcasts: https://spoti.fi/4cxbx3y ---- ►Connect with Dustin Portela: Text Me Here: sms:+1 208-203-0767 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/drdustinportela Instagram:   / drdustinportela   Facebook:   / drdustinportela   ---- ► Subscribe to My Channel:    / drdustinportela   -- DISCLAIMER: This video and description contain affiliate links, which means that if you click on one of the product links, I’ll receive a small commission.