How melanin is formed

At La Belle Medical Spa we offer a suite of treatments, services & pharmaceutical skin care products that brighten and resurface the skin. Since each patient is unique, the approach that we take with each patient is unique based on the severity of their condition and goals.

At our practice the initial consultation is when we evaluate your skin, get to know you and your at home routine, provide skin care education for optimal skin health maintenance and determine what services or clinical treatments are going to yield the most effective results in brightening your skin.

Call our office or book through our home page to learn what treatment plan is best for you!

Skin gets its color from a substance called melanin, which is made by skin cells. When those skin cells are damaged or unhealthy, they can produce too much melanin. The melanin can clump, causing that area to appear darker.  Many things can lead to hyperpigmentation:  

Adrenal disorders such as Addison’s disease, when the body doesn’t make enough of a hormone called cortisol. 

Genetics, such as a family with freckles. 

Hormone changes, such as during puberty or pregnancy. 

Injury to the skin (for example, acne, cuts or burns), which is sometimes called postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. 

Medications, such as oral contraceptives (birth control pills) and drugs that cause sensitivity to light. Melasma. 

Not getting enough of certain vitamins, such as B12 and folic acid. Sun damage (these spots are often called solar lentigines). 

Thyroid disorders.