Restore an Even, Healthy Skin Tone in New Jersey
Skin discoloration refers to any change in your natural skin tone, whether in small patches or across larger areas. These changes may appear as red, pink, brown, black, tan, purple, or even blue spots. While many cases are harmless and cosmetic in nature, others may be linked to underlying health conditions that require attention. At Skin & Laser Center of NJ, we provide accurate diagnosis and advanced treatment options to help patients address discoloration, restore confidence, and achieve clearer, more balanced skin.
Discoloration can develop for many different reasons, ranging from common lifestyle factors to underlying medical conditions. Common causes include:
Sun exposure: UV rays can cause freckles, sunspots, and hyperpigmentation
Inflammation or irritation: Skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, or acne may leave behind dark marks
Birthmarks or genetic factors: Some patients are naturally predisposed to pigmentation changes
Infections: Certain fungal or bacterial infections may alter skin color temporarily
Medications: Some prescription drugs can lead to pigmentation changes as a side effect
Skin cancer: Discoloration can sometimes be a sign of precancerous or cancerous growths
Because discoloration can range from harmless to serious, professional evaluation is essential for determining the cause.
Skin discoloration is not always dangerous, but treatment may be recommended if it is:
Persistent or spreading over time
Accompanied by itching, pain, or other symptoms
Dark, irregularly shaped, or rapidly changing in appearance
Affecting visible areas such as the face, hands, or neck, causing cosmetic concerns
Linked to other skin conditions that require management
Even when harmless, many patients choose to address discoloration to improve skin clarity and confidence.
Our dermatologists provide personalized treatment plans based on the cause of the discoloration, the severity of the pigmentation, and the patient’s overall skin health. Options may include:
Topical medications – Prescription-strength creams or serums to lighten pigmentation or reduce inflammation
Laser treatments – Advanced technology to target and break down unwanted pigmentation
Chemical peels – Exfoliating treatments that help renew skin tone and reduce dark spots
Cryotherapy – Freezing certain lesions to restore even tone
Medical management – Addressing underlying conditions (such as infections or inflammation) that contribute to discoloration
Our goal is not only to improve appearance but also to address any underlying medical issues that may be causing the changes.
Learn More About Skin Discoloration
There are dozens of potential causes of skin discoloration. Some are benign, while others call for medical intervention. Some can be cured, while others may require lifelong treatment.
Some of the most common causes include:
Diagnosing the root cause of skin discoloration is the first step in pursuing treatment. Because there are so many potential causes, treatments may vary substantially depending on the cause. Your Skin & Laser Center of NJ provider will begin by examining the discolored skin and obtaining your medical history—and may be able to provide a diagnosis right after the physical examination. Further testing—such as blood work, a Wood’s lamp examination, or a skin biopsy—may also be required.
Following the physical examination and potential further testing, your provider should be able to provide an official diagnosis of the cause of your skin discoloration. Your treatment plan will depend largely on the cause. Skin discoloration caused by active infections often requires antibiotics for bacterial infections or antifungal medications for fungal infections. Other potential treatment options include chemical peels, topical medications, laser treatment, or microdermabrasion. In some cases, your treatment plan might involve a combination of multiple procedures or medications.
Depending on your diagnosis, your treatment plan may fully resolve your symptoms. For other patients diagnosed with a condition that can’t be cured, treatment may need to be continued to manage symptoms. Your provider will walk you through what to expect before and after your treatment.
Convenient walk in hours available below. No appointment needed! Accepting private insurance and medicare. No medicaid plans.
Learn more about medical treatments at New Jersey’s Skin & Laser Center of NJ. Call 201-500-7525 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.