What are the best ways to treat Melasma? Melasma is one of the most common skin disorders, and it causes brown patches to appear on the face. Some individuals notice the appearance of melasma on some parts of the body such as the forehead, chin, nose, cheeks, and upper lips. The parts of the body exposed to the sunlight such as the neck and forearms could be affected by melasma. Most often, women are more susceptible than men because this usually occurs during the pregnancy stage. The hormones are responsible for the occurrence of melasma when they are pregnant.
What is melasma?
Melasma is responsible for hyperpigmentation, the appearance of brown, tan, or blue-gray spots on the face. It is usually found in most women who are within the age bracket of 20 and 50 years. Its presence is generally detected in the jawline, cheekbone, and central face. This is also treated with the application of topical creams which comprise hydroquinone. Research has shown that women who are of Asian and Latin descent are usually affected by this skin disorder.
Types of melasma patterns
However, there are four different types of pigmentation patterns, and these are epidermal, mixed, dermal, and another unnamed variety usually discovered in individuals with a dark complexion. The epidermal pattern is characterized by the presence of abundant melanin in the superficial skin layers while dermal melasma is characterized by the cells that ingest melanin via the dermis.
On the other hand, the mixed variety combines the attributes of dermal and epidermal pigmentation patterns, while there are signs of excessive melanocytes in the skin of individuals with a dark complexion. It is advisable to avoid being exposed to sunlight to prevent this skin disorder.
Causes of melasma
There is no known cause of melasma to date, but most dermatologists recommend the wearing of sunscreen each day for protection from sunlight exposure. There is a dark discoloration usually seen on the nose, upper lip, cheeks, and forehead and it is evident as a symmetrical on both sides.
Most often, melasma disappears when pregnant women deliver their babies, and periods when contraceptives are not taken anymore. The use of sunscreen is advised for the prevention of this skin disorder. If you have been noticing some brown pigments on some parts of your body, especially the face, this is the best time to contact us at our facility in Las Vegas as we are always willing to assist you with our proven strategies and procedures to get rid of melasma.
Preventing Melasma
While melasma cannot be entirely prevented in individuals predisposed to the condition, certain measures can help minimize its occurrence and reduce the risk of flare-ups. Strict sun protection is essential for managing melasma effectively. Avoiding direct sun exposure during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and consistently using high-SPF sunscreens are crucial steps in protecting the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Opt for broad-spectrum tinted sunscreens that contain iron oxide, as they effectively block visible light and UVA/UVB rays, which contribute to pigment production in melasma.
It’s important to note that even when indoors, visible light can penetrate through windows, potentially triggering melasma flares. Therefore, individuals with melasma should be mindful of their exposure to visible light, especially when driving or sitting by a window. Additionally, avoiding hormonal medications, such as birth control pills, when possible can help prevent melasma flares associated with hormonal changes.
Best ways to treat Melasma
Topical Treatments for Melasma
While there is no cure for melasma, several topical treatments have been shown to effectively manage the condition. These medications work by reducing pigment production, inflammation, and excess blood vessels in the skin. It’s worth noting that treatment responses can vary, and complete resolution may not always be achieved. However, with consistent use of appropriate medications under the guidance of a dermatologist, significant improvements can be experienced.
The most commonly used skin lightening medications for melasma include hydroquinone, azelaic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, cysteamine, rucinol, and tranexamic acid. Hydroquinone is a widely used skin lightener, but it should be used for a limited time due to potential side effects. Typically, hydroquinone is used for up to six months for initial treatment and then occasionally as needed. Combination therapy, such as a combination of hydroquinone with a retinoid and a steroid, is often recommended for optimal results.
It’s important to note that pregnant women should avoid most skin lightening medications, except for azelaic acid, which is considered safe during pregnancy. For more severe cases of melasma, oral medications like tranexamic acid may be prescribed to reduce pigment production and excess blood vessels in the skin.
Professional Procedures for Melasma Treatment
In cases where topical treatments may not provide satisfactory results, professional procedures can be considered to address melasma. Chemical peels and laser therapies are common treatment options for melasma that can effectively lighten dark spots and even out the skin tone. Chemical peels involve the application of substances like glycolic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids, and salicylic acid to remove the superficial layer of the skin containing excess pigment in melasma patients. However, it’s important to note that the effects of chemical peels are temporary, as they do not address pigment production in deeper layers of the skin.
Laser therapies, on the other hand, can target and destroy pigment cells in the skin, leading to a lightening of the dark spots associated with melasma. However, as with any treatment option for melasma, there is a risk of relapse post-treatment, and multiple sessions may be required for optimal results. It is crucial to consult with a dermatologist to determine the most suitable professional procedure based on individual needs and skin type.
Can red light therapy make melasma worse?
Red light therapy is a non-invasive treatment that has gained popularity for its potential to address a variety of skin concerns, including wrinkles, acne, and inflammation. However, when it comes to melasma, a common skin condition characterized by dark patches on the face, the response to red light therapy can vary. Some individuals with this skin disorder have reported positive outcomes with red light therapy, as the therapy can help improve skin tone and reduce the appearance of pigmentation.
Yet, it’s important to note that for some individuals, red light therapy may exacerbate this skin disorder due to the potential stimulation of melanin production in the skin. This can lead to an increase in pigmentation and potentially worsen the appearance of melasma. As a result, individuals considering red light therapy for this skin disorder should seek guidance from a dermatologist or skin care professional to evaluate whether this treatment is suitable for their specific condition.
Additionally, it’s crucial to use sun protection and avoid potential triggers for melasma, such as hormonal fluctuations and excessive sun exposure, when undergoing red light therapy or any other skin treatments. Overall, while red light therapy may offer benefits for certain skin concerns, including melasma, it’s essential to approach this treatment with caution and professional guidance to minimize the risk of exacerbating the condition.
Maintenance Therapy and Prevention Strategies
After achieving improvement in melasma lesions, maintenance therapy and prevention strategies are essential to maintaining the treatment results and preventing flare-ups. Continued strict sun protection is crucial, including the consistent use of high-SPF sunscreens and protective clothing. Skin lighteners other than hydroquinone, such as those containing retinoids, can be used in combination to maintain the results. Intermittent use of hydroquinone therapy may also be considered if needed.
Regular follow-ups with a board-certified dermatologist are recommended to monitor progress, adjust treatment regimens if necessary, and address any concerns or questions. A dermatologist can provide personalized guidance and support, ensuring the most effective management of melasma and maintenance of treatment results.
We have different cosmetic treatments and skin care products that will eliminate this skin disorder and its skin discoloration. Our team of experienced and professional aestheticians is willing to collaborate with you and put an end to your melasma experience. Different treatment options available at our spa in Las Vegas include microdermabrasion, chemical peels, topical fading creams, facial treatments, and sublative rejuvenation, and fractional CO2 laser resurfacing.
Come to us today at RareV, and we will help you with the appropriate treatment options to handle your melasma condition.
