A common disorder, Melasma is where skin pigmentation changes to brown or grey patches, typically on the face. Typically present on areas of skin exposed to high levels of sunlight, Melasma is common on the bridge of the nose, cheeks, upper lip and forehead. It may also appear elsewhere on the body includes forearms, shoulders and neck.
Melasma is notoriously difficult to treat. The first step is to block light penetrating the skin. This is crucial to treating and preventing further darkening of melasma. Applying a broad spectrum, physical sunscreen with a high SPF each and every day is essential, as is incorporating a vitamin C serum underneath the sun cream. The additional protection helps to lighten pigment and provide an antioxidant effect.
People with darker skin are more likely to develop melasma, however the medical profession does not fully understand the causes of Melasma. Sun exposure, particular skin can products that irritate a person’s skin, and changes in hormones while taking birth control, during pregnancy, and hormone treatment are potential triggers. Melasma often has symmetrical disposition and irregular borders. It can be classified as either epidermal (and therefore should respond better to topical depigmenting products) or dermal (considered highly challenging to treat and is susceptible to constant relapses).
How to treat Melasma
Melasma can be difficult to treat because, unlike freckles, sunspots and sun damage, it’s a form of hormonal pigmentation and as such, treatment must be done by a trained doctor to avoid further complications or worsening of the condition. There are three main treatment options, depending on your skin type and the severity of your melasma.
- Chemical peels – Click to learn more
- Laser therapy – Click to learn more
- Dermamelan® – Click to learn more
Whatever your skin type or concern, there is a solution for you. The Azure Medical team is here to work with you, discuss solutions and help you find your feel good.