| |
Common Conditions -
Melasma
UVA rays are a stimulant for melanin (brown
pigmentation) to develop on the skin, and
unfortunately can even penetrate through car
window glass. For this reason the most important
product to use everyday to help prevent melasma
is a broad-spectrum sunscreen with Zinc Oxide
and SPF 30+ to block the UVA rays. We recommend
Skinfo® Pure Protection, which has the highest
amount of Zinc Oxide available in sunscreens.
Colorescience Sunforgettable® SPF30 powder
sunscreen is also a must have to re-apply
throughout the day, extremely light-weight and
can be worn over makeup! Also wear a protective
hat when outdoors for extended periods to
further block these rays.
What is melasma?
Melasma is a skin condition that occurs on the
face in the form of brown patches. A change in
hormonal status (higher levels of estrogen) is
thought to trigger and be the cause of the
condition (i.e. birth control pills, pregnancy),
although many women without these risk factors
also develop melasma.
Are there different types of melasma?
There are four types of melasma, Epidermal,
Dermal, mixed Epidermal-Dermal and Inapparent.
The different types of melasma describe how deep
the pigment is in the skin. Typically, the
deeper the pigment the harder it is to treat.
Epidermal melasma is the most common form and
occasionally an exam can be done with a wood’s
lamp to determine which type an individual has.
However, melasma recalcitrant to therapy is most
likely dermal melasma which can be better
treated with a laser that can penetrate to the
dermis (Fraxel Repair).
How can I treat melasma?
Affirm Lasers continues to be a great procedure
for treating melasma. Most patients appreciate
improvement after three monthly treatments. Very
light settings are effective and therefore only
result in about a day of redness following the
treatment which is easily covered by makeup.
It is important to note that there is no
procedure that will “cure” melasma. Therefore,
diligent use of sun block with zinc oxide is
always recommended to improve and prolong the
results.
Most lightening products contain hydroquinone, a
chemical which impairs the cells from making
melanin, or botanical ingredients such as kojic
acid, arbutin, and licorice. Ask for a
consultation to discuss which lighteners are
best for your skin.
Is melasma curable?
Unfortunately melasma is not curable. It is
important to always have appropriate sun
protection on the skin every day (SPF 30 or
greater with high percentage of zinc oxide)
because the UVA rays cause the abnormal pigment
to increase and darken. Even just one day
without sun protection can cause melasma to
worsen.
What does melasma look like?
Melasma appears as larger brown patches on the
forehead, cheeks, nose and upper lip. It can
occur in any one of these sites or a combination
of these. In rare cases it may appear on the
forearms or neck.
How can I find out more?
Schedule an appointment to discuss with a
medical provider to determine what the best
treatment plan may be for you.
Where did this information come from?
Dermatology online by Bolognia and eMedicine.com
|
|
Recommended
Procedures
Recommended Products
 |
