Why skin tone becomes uneven
Most discoloration comes from melanin, the pigment your skin makes to protect itself. Utah's altitude means more UV exposure than most of the country, so sun spots (solar lentigines) often show up earlier here. Melasma is different: it is driven by hormones, heat and visible light as well as UV, which is why it often appears during pregnancy, on birth control or in summer.
Texture problems such as acne scars and enlarged pores come from collagen damage rather than pigment. They need treatments that rebuild collagen, not just lighten color. Getting the diagnosis right is the most important step, because some lasers that clear sun spots can make melasma worse.
Matching the treatment to the problem
Sun spots and freckles usually respond well to IPL or PICO laser in a few sessions. Melasma responds best to gentle, low-heat approaches such as PICO toning, medical-grade peels and a prescription skincare plan, combined with strict sun protection. Redness and rosacea respond to vascular light treatments. Acne scars need resurfacing, such as fractional CO2, 1540 non-ablative laser or RF microneedling, to remodel collagen.
Many patients have more than one concern, so plans often combine treatments. A typical plan treats pigment first and texture second, with maintenance once or twice a year.
What to expect at Renova Wellness
Your visit starts with a skin assessment by our medical team. We look at your skin type, the depth and pattern of pigment, your sun habits and any hormonal triggers, then give you a written plan with session counts and pricing before anything begins. Members save 15% on laser treatments.
In-depth articles in this guide
Melasma Treatment: What Actually Works (and What Makes It Worse)
Melasma is stubborn, but it is treatable. Here's how we approach it, which lasers are safe, and the daily habits that keep it from coming back.
PICO vs CO2 Laser for Acne Scars: Which Is Right for You?
Both lasers improve acne scars, but in very different ways. A side-by-side look at downtime, results, skin-type safety and who each one suits.
Sun Spots: How Many Laser Sessions Will You Need?
Most sun spots fade in one to three sessions. Here's what affects the number, what the skin looks like in between, and how to keep new spots from forming.
How Much Does Melasma Treatment Cost in Utah?
An honest look at what drives the cost of melasma treatment, typical price ranges for each option, and how to get the most value from your plan.
Melasma & Sun Spot Treatment for Provo, Orem and Utah County
Living at altitude in Utah County means more UV and more pigment. Here's how Provo, Orem, Lehi and American Fork residents can treat and prevent it.
Frequently asked questions
Can melasma be cured permanently?
Melasma can be cleared or greatly improved, but it tends to return with sun, heat or hormone changes. A maintenance plan with daily mineral sunscreen and periodic gentle treatments keeps it under control.
Is laser safe for darker skin tones?
Yes, when the right device and settings are used. PICO lasers and non-ablative options are generally safer for medium and darker skin than older high-heat lasers. We assess your skin type before recommending anything.
When is the best time of year to treat pigment in Utah?
Fall and winter, when sun exposure is lower. You can treat year-round with strict sun protection, but results last longer when you start in the off-season.
Get a personalized skin clarity plan
Tell us what you'd like to improve. We'll recommend the right treatment, session count and price at your assessment.
Prefer to talk? (801) 383-0773