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Pigmentary Disorders

We offer specialized care for patients with skin discoloration or pigmentary disorders.
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6177262914
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Compassionate care for skin pigmentation disorders

Our Dermatology Program for Pigmentary Disorders is made up of specialty clinics that serve the unique needs of adult and pediatric patients with disorders that result in darkening or lightening of the skin.

The Center is led by board-certified dermatologists and pigmentation specialists Sandy S. Tsao, MD, and Nicholas Theodosakis, MD, PhD. Together they offer cutting-edge treatments for patients of all skin tones using the latest advances in medical and procedure-based dermatologic care.

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Part of Dermatology
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Learn about our research on pigmentation disorders

Our directors are working to develop the next generation of treatments for pigmentary disorders.
Sandy Tsao, MD, Founder and Procedural Director

Dr. Tsao’s work centers on advancing therapeutic strategies for pigmentary disorders, particularly in diverse skin types. She has developed and refined laser- and energy-based interventions while integrating translational clinical research to improve outcomes in conditions such as melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Notably, Dr. Tsao helped pioneer photochemical tissue bonding (“nanosuturing”), a sutureless wound-closure technology that represents a meaningful innovation in procedural dermatology with potential applications in surgery and regenerative medicine. Her scholarly contributions include numerous peer-reviewed articles, book chapters, and co-authorship of The Color Atlas of Cosmetic Dermatology, reflecting a sustained focus on procedural techniques and skin biology. Dr. Tsao has delivered over 200 invited lectures worldwide and contributes to shaping the field through leadership roles in major dermatologic societies, influencing research priorities and procedural standards in laser and cosmetic dermatology.

Nicholas Theodosakis, MD, PhD, Medical Director
Dr. Theodosakis is a physician-scientist. In addition to seeing patients with pigmentary disorders in clinic, Dr. Theodosakis and his laboratory study the underlying biology of pigmentation, as well as the pathogenesis of skin discoloration. He is particularly interested in how misfolding and aggregation of pigment proteins may lead to the formation of hard-to-remove deposits in the deeper layers of the skin that contribute to diseases such as melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. His work aims to utilize this new paradigm to develop new, more effective treatments for these difficult-to-treat conditions.
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Our approach

Pigmentary disorders conditions and treatments

Our dermatologists offer treatments for patients with hyperpigmenting disorders (skin darkening) and hypopigmenting disorders (skin lightening).
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Conditions and treatments

Pigmentary disorders specialists

No matter what disease or condition you have, Mass General Brigham has specialists near you who can help.
An illustration of a care team.
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617-726-2914
6177262914
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Specialists

Pigmentary disorders clinical trials and research

Our experts actively research new treatments for pigmentary disorders. They have a specialized focus on understanding the causes of darkening and lightening the skin.
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Search clinical trials
https://clinicaltrials.gov/
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Across our system, we provide a range of dermatology services to support the needs of patients of all ages.

  • Dermatology

    Our dermatologists care for a wide range of hair, skin, and nail concerns, from acne to nail infections, hair loss, and skin cancer. Schedule an appointment.

  • General Dermatology

    We offer the region’s most extensive range of general dermatology services for all types of skin, hair, and nail conditions. See how we can help you.

  • Multicultural Dermatology

    We offer culturally sensitive dermatology care for people with darker skin tones more prone to keloids, pigmentary disorders, and hair damage. Learn more.

  • Pediatric Dermatology

    The Pediatric Dermatology Program at Mass General Brigham for Children provides care for children and adolescents with the full range of acquired and congenital disorders of the skin.

  • Laser and Cosmetics

    We offer the region’s most extensive range of laser skin treatments and nonsurgical cosmetic procedures to improve how you look and feel. See how we can help.

  • Phototherapy

    We’re a national leader in phototherapy for psoriasis, eczema, and other chronic skin conditions. See if ultraviolet light therapy is right for you.

  • Autoimmune Skin Disease Program

    Patients with autoimmune skin diseases receive comprehensive care from dermatology and immune system experts. See how our care makes a difference.

  • Melanoma Risk and Prevention

    We offer comprehensive services for early melanoma detection in people with high risk factors. We also treat early-stage melanoma. Learn how we can help you.

  • Center for Cutaneous (Skin) Cancers

    The Mass General Brigham Center for Cutaneous (Skin) Cancers offers the latest research, advanced therapies, and support services. Learn more about our approach.

  • Advanced Acne Therapeutics

    Our Mass General Brigham experts at Advanced Acne Therapeutics provide specialized care for patients with acne.

  • Contact Dermatitis and Occupational Dermatology

    Contact Dermatitis and Occupational Dermatology is a referral-based specialty service with over 30 years of experience diagnosing and treating allergic reactions of the skin.

  • Atopic Dermatitis Services

    We offer comprehensive atopic dermatitis services, including medications and phototherapy, for patients of all ages. See how we treat this skin disease.

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Services and programs

Contact the Pigmentary Disorders Program

Call us to speak with a team member who can help you understand your options and guide you to the care that is right for you. With locations throughout New England and support for patients traveling from outside the United States, we make it easier to access coordinated, expert care.
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617-726-2914
6177262914
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International Patient Services

Contact information for international patients

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Contact