Melasma

What is melasma?

Melasma is a pigmentation disorder that is characterized by symmetrical, blotchy, pigmentation. It is more often affects faces however it is not uncommon for it to affect arms, back and décolletages.

Melasma commonly effects women (1 in 4) more than men (1 in 20) and usually presents between 20-40 years old.

The cause of Melasma is complex and is due to overproduction of melanin by the pigment cells (melanocytes) and is deposited in the dermis. Genetics can predispose you to melasma however other triggers include:

• Sun exposure and sun damage
• Pregnancy
• Hormone treatments (oral contraceptives containing oestrogen and progesterone)
• Certain medications
• Hypothyroidism

What are the signs of melasma?

Melasma presents as large flat brown patches. It is commonly found on both sides of the face and has an irregular pattern.

Melasma can occur on the forehead, cheeks, nose, upper lip, jawline, sides of neck (poikiloderma of civatte) or brachial (affecting shoulders and upper arms).

How is melasma treated?

Prescriptive
Topical brightening creams

Non-prescriptive
Sun protection is a must have accessory when treating Melasma. Melasma is commonly flared by sun exposure therefore taking sun protective measures is imperative to successfully reducing melasma. Sunscreens, reapply sunscreen, hats, taking shade and avoiding sun exposure during high UV times.

Treatments
Treatments performed in clinic at Skinfluence Clinic include:

Chemical Peels, Fraxel, BBL

Skin care for melasma

• Sunscreen as previously mentioned is one of the main stays of Melasma treatment.
• Gentle cleansing is encouraged as some of the brightening agents used during your melasma treatment may make your skin a little sensitive.
• Brightening creams containing ingredients like Vitamin C, Azelaic acid, Vitamin A, Hydroquinone.