What Is Becker’s Nevus?
Becker’s Nevus is a type of benign skin condition characterized by a large, dark brown patch of hyperpigmentation, often accompanied by increased hair growth. These patches typically appear on the chest, upper back, or shoulders and usually affect only one side of the body. The condition is significantly more common in males and is found in approximately 0.5% of the male population.
Research has identified a gene mutation associated with Becker’s Nevus. The affected skin cells are particularly sensitive to androgen hormones, which may explain the increased hair growth and the condition’s development during puberty.
Will Becker’s Nevus Go Away on Its Own?
In most cases, Becker’s Nevus does not resolve spontaneously. While there are rare reports of the pigmentation fading over time, the majority of lesions persist into adulthood. These typically develop during adolescence and remain stable thereafter.
Becker’s Nevus Treatment: A Two-Part Approach
Although Becker’s Nevus is benign and does not pose health risks, treatment is often sought for cosmetic reasons. An effective treatment plan usually addresses both the hair growth and pigmentation associated with the condition.
Treating Hair Growth
Laser Hair Removal is a proven method for reducing the excess hair within the affected area. An initial series of 7–10 treatments is typically recommended, followed by maintenance sessions once or twice a year for long-term results.
Treating Skin Pigmentation
To lighten the darkened skin, the Q-Switched Alexandrite Laser is commonly used. Most patients will require at least 4–6 sessions, though additional treatments may be needed depending on individual goals and skin response. It’s important to have realistic expectations; the pigmentation will lighten with treatment, but complete removal is unlikely.
Becker’s Nevus Treatment Journey: Time and Financial Commitments
The cost of treating a Becker’s Nevus varies greatly based on the size of the lesion and the number of sessions required to achieve patient satisfaction. For reference, the before and after photo featured here was achieved after a total of 16 sessions of Alexandrite Laser over the course of two years. Due to the large size of the lesion, it was divided into four segments that were each treated separately to make both the treatment and post treatment care more manageable. Each segment of the nevus was treated four times for a total of 16 visits. The cost associated to treat lesions can range from the low thousands to up to $10,000+ based on size.
Can Becker’s Nevus Return or Get Worse After Treatment?
While treatment can significantly improve the appearance of Becker’s Nevus, there is a possibility that the pigmentation may gradually darken again over time. Hormonal changes can play a role in this recurrence, and sun exposure can further deepen the pigmentation.
Sun protection is essential to maintain results and prevent worsening. Using broad-spectrum sunscreen and minimizing UV exposure can help prolong the effects of treatment.
With a tailored, two-part approach to address both hair and pigmentation patients can achieve noticeable and lasting improvements. If you’re considering treatment in the Chapel Hill, Raleigh, Durham area, reach out to our team to develop a personalized plan.
