melasma
Lone Tree, CO 80124
What it is
A skin condition that can be characterized by brown or gray-ish skin patches or dense freckle spots. Usually worsens with heat or sun exposure. Can also be called “pregnancy mask”
Common Causes/triggers
- Sun Exposure– UVA/UVB sunlight exposure causes the body to produce melanin as a protective mechanism, which in turn triggers Melasma, making it darker, larger, and more dominant
- Hormones/Pregnancy– an increase in estrogen and progesterone, especially during pregnancy, is associated with skin pigmentation and Melasma. Also, thyroid diseases can cause the same fluctuation of hormones resulting in Melasma
- Medications– Melasma can be a side effect of some medications, especially hormone based medications and medications that cause photosensitivity
- Heat– extreme heat can trigger Melasma to exasperate and worsen the state of Melamsa, or cause a new “flare up”
- Lifestyle– stress is often a trigger of Melasma because stress causes the body to produce more cortisol, which in turn affects hormone balance in the body
Photo credit: Consult 360
Locations of melasma
Around the eyes
forehead
upper lip
cheek region
Nose
(can affect body, but less common)
Photo credit: MDmelasma
How to treat melasma
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels, especially medical-strength like VI Peel, help with Melasma because the chemical solution that is applied topically resurfaces the skin causing the top layer to shed. Overall, this diminishes the superficial melanin that is creating the appearance of the dark patches. Depending on the individual’s severity, a series of 3-6 peels is often recommended with maintenance in between. We also recommend to “prep” the skin before chemical peel treatments with hydroquinone and retinol to start lightening the skin and avoid any rebound affects from chemical peel treatments.
ResurFX
ResurFX is a great option for those with Melasma, simply because it is a non-ablative resurfacing treatment that helps to break apart the colonies of pigment caused by Melasma, while also creating new collagen and elastin fibers for a more youthful appearance. ResurFX will give the skin a total resurfacing treatment to lighten the unwanted pigmentation. Like mentioned above, we recommend prepping the skin with medical grade hydroquinone and retinol prior to treatments to ensure skin is at optimal health for ResurFX treatments. A series of 3-6+ are recommended for optimal results.
Medical Grade Skincare
Being on a customized medical-grade skincare routine is crucial for individuals with Melasma. Using active ingredients such as hydroquinone, retinol, AHA/BHA exfoliants, and a mineral based SPF 30+ are going to help lighten the skin and keep the pigment from Melasma at bay. Using these types of skincare products before treatments, during treatments, and after/in between treatments will enhance the results and simply lighten the pigmentation (alone, even without treatments). Wearing wide brim hats, reapplying SPF, and keeping the skin cool will also help with reducing Melasma and preventing it from worsening.
*Of Note*
Melasma is a life long condition that will not go away on its own. Ensure you go to a trained medical professional to get a proper diagnosis of Melasma first, as there are many types and severities. Without diligent and continual care, Melasma will worsen and potentially spread. Keep in mind that no treatment is a permanent solution, rather a guideline for keeping the Melasma at bay or bettering its severity. See a trusted provider for a complete, individualized treatment plan, just for you!