Becker’s Nevus (Becker’s melanosis, Becker’s pigmentary hamartoma, Nevoid melanosis Pigmented hairy epidermal nevus)

Becker’s Nevus:

  • Is also known by the names:
    • Becker’s melanosis
    • Becker’s pigmentary hamartoma
    • Nevoid melanosis
    • Pigmented hairy epidermal nevus
  • Usually affects 1 in 200 young men, and is sometimes seen in young women
  • Usually appears around the age of 12 to 14
  • Is usually located on a shoulder, the side of the chest or the upper back
  • Sometimes may consist of a flat brown patch anywhere from 5 cm to 25 cm in diameter and usually increases slowly in size
  • Often has an increased number of dark hairs in it, compared with the surrounding skin
  • Is of unknown cause, but 25% of cases are triggered by a sunburn
  • Is benign – not malignant or cancerous
    • It is extremely rare for skin cancer to develop within a Becker’s nevus, but it is still important to notify your doctor of any changes in size, shape or colour of the lesion
  • As Becker’s nevus is considered a benign lesion, treatment is generally not necessary except for cosmetic purposes
  • Shaving or trimming can be effective in removing unwanted hair

Which aesthetic procedures can be used for a Becker’s Nevus?

  • Laser Hair Removal
    • All skin colours can be treated
    • Laser hair removal is very effective to remove and reduce the hair within the lesion
    • A different laser is required to remove the brown skin discoloration
      • The brown discolouration is much more difficult to remove, and frequently recurs after laser treatment
    • Almost any area with unwanted hair can be treated including:
      • Face
      • Underarms
      • Bikini
      • Arms and Legs
      • Chest and Back
    • To learn more about Laser Hair Removal, please click here

When can I start having treatments?

  • Today!
  • For your convenience, the services above are available in my office

Becker’s Nevus – Shoulder

Becker’s Nevus – Shoulder

Becker’s Nevus – Chest

LightSheer Diode Laser for Hair Removal

What if you are interested to learn more?

If you would like to learn more please phone the aesthetic centre directly at (905) 549-7873 to book a free consultation with one of our knowledgeable technicians or

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