Hyperpigmentation treatment in Massapequa
Dark spots, patches or areas that look darker than the rest of your skin, and that concealer only partly covers. At Skin Space in Massapequa, we help clients across Long Island even out hyperpigmentation by first working out what's causing it, then choosing treatments that are safe for their skin tone.
Also known as dark spots, dark patches, discoloration and uneven pigmentation.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Jimenez, Medical Director. Last reviewed September 2026.
What hyperpigmentation is
An umbrella term with several different causes.
Hyperpigmentation means some areas of skin produce more melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, than the skin around them. It's one of the most common skin concerns and affects every skin tone, though deeper skin tones are more prone to it.
The cause matters more than the color, because each type responds to different treatments. A treatment that clears a sun spot can make melasma worse, so the first step is identifying which kind of pigment you have.
Sun-related spots
Distinct brown spots on sun-exposed skin from years of UV exposure.
Post-inflammatory marks
Flat dark marks left behind after acne, a rash, a burn or irritation heals.
Melasma
Symmetrical brown patches on the cheeks, forehead or upper lip, linked to hormones and sun.
Each type has its own page: sun spots and age spots, dark marks after acne and melasma.
What causes it
Anything that tells pigment cells to work overtime.
Pigment cells respond to signals from sun, inflammation and hormones. When they overreact in one area, a dark spot or patch forms.
- Sun exposure, the most common trigger, which also darkens existing spots.
- Inflammation, from acne, eczema, bug bites, burns, waxing or aggressive skincare.
- Hormones, including pregnancy and hormonal birth control.
- Some medications, which can make skin more reactive to sun.
- Deeper skin tones, which have more active pigment cells and form dark marks more easily.
Hyperpigmentation treatments at Skin Space
Your Skin Space provider will match treatment to the type of pigment and your skin tone.
-
IPL Photofacial
Light-based treatment that targets brown pigment from sun damage, breaking it up so it rises and flakes away. It also reduces redness.
- Best for
- Sun-related spots and mottled pigment on lighter skin tones
- Format
- A series of three to five sessions
- Downtime
- Minimal; spots darken briefly before fading
- Good to know
- Not used for melasma or on deeper skin tones
-
PRX
A no-needle treatment that brightens and evens skin tone without heat or peeling, making it suitable for all skin tones and year-round use.
- Best for
- Uneven tone and dark marks, including on deeper skin tones
- Format
- A series of sessions
- Downtime
- None
-
BioRePeel
A gentle peel that exfoliates and stimulates the skin to help fade surface pigment, usually without visible peeling or downtime.
- Best for
- Post-acne marks, dullness and uneven tone
- Format
- A short series of sessions
- Downtime
- Minimal
Also used alongside these
- TribellaCombines IPL with resurfacing for sun-related pigment alongside lines and texture.
- Signature Brightening FacialA brightening facial that supports results between treatments.
What to expect at Skin Space
From your first visit in Massapequa to more even skin.
Pigment assessment
We look at the pattern, location and history of your dark spots to work out what type of hyperpigmentation you have.
Your plan
Your provider chooses treatments that suit the pigment type and your skin tone, and avoids any that could make it darker.
Treatment and home care
In-spa sessions are paired with a brightening home routine and strict sun protection.
Maintenance
Pigment can return with sun and inflammation, so periodic treatments help keep tone even.
Fading dark spots at home
Sun protection does half the work.
- Wear sunscreen every day, rain or shine. Tinted mineral sunscreens add extra protection against visible light.
- Use brightening ingredients such as vitamin C, niacinamide or azelaic acid. Your provider can suggest what suits your skin.
- Be gentle. Harsh scrubs and irritating products cause inflammation, which can create new dark marks.
- Don't pick at spots or breakouts. It's one of the most common causes of new dark marks.
- Plan around Long Island summers. Beach days, boating and summer sports undo progress fast, so schedule your most intensive treatments for fall and winter and protect your results when the weather warms up.
When to see a dermatologist
Some dark spots need a medical look first.
See a dermatologist or your doctor before cosmetic treatment if you notice:
- A dark spot that is new, changing, raised, bleeding or itchy
- Darkening of skin in body folds such as the neck or underarms, which can be linked to blood sugar or hormones
- Widespread darkening without an obvious cause
- Pigment changes that started with a new medication
Prescription treatments and in-spa care often work well together. The Skin Space team is glad to coordinate with your dermatologist.
Common questions
How long does it take to fade hyperpigmentation?
It depends on the type and depth. Surface marks can fade within weeks, while deeper or long-standing pigment often takes several months of treatment and sun protection.
Is hyperpigmentation treatment safe for darker skin?
Yes, with the right treatments. Some light-based treatments aren't suitable for deeper skin tones, so we use options like PRX and gentle peels that work without risking further darkening.
Will dark spots come back?
They can, especially with sun exposure or new inflammation. Daily sunscreen and a consistent routine are the best way to keep results.
What's the difference between hyperpigmentation and melasma?
Melasma is one specific type of hyperpigmentation, linked to hormones and sun, that appears as symmetrical patches. It needs gentler treatment than other dark spots.
Can I treat dark spots in the summer?
Some treatments, like PRX, can be done year-round. Light-based treatments are best saved for fall and winter, when your skin isn't tanned.
Where can I get hyperpigmentation treatment near Massapequa?
Skin Space is a med spa in Massapequa, NY, serving clients from across Long Island. Every plan starts with a consultation to identify your pigment type.
Related concerns
Other concerns we treat at Skin Space in Massapequa.
Reviewed by Dr. Jimenez
Medical Director at Skin Space in Massapequa, NY. This page was reviewed for medical accuracy in September 2026.