“I have melasma” - it’s a comment we hear often and it’s a hard one. It might take us a few days to get through all of the melasma treatment options.
What is melasma?
Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown patches on the skin, usually on the face, including cheeks, chin, nose, forehead, and upper lip.
Whare are common causes of melasma?
Researchers have found that melasma is triggered by radiation and hormones. Possible triggers for melasma include sunlight, pregnancy, contraceptive medications (birth control), stress, tanning beds, and genetics. Melasma is also referred to as the “the mask of pregnancy".
How is melasma diagnosed?
There's no test for melasma, but your medical provider will be able to inspect and recognize melasma.
How do you treat melasma?
If melasma is caused by pregnancy, it may improve over one year or so, but for some, it may persist. Although melasma is not harmful, there are various methods of treatment, including:
- Sunscreen/SPF: Sunscreen is vital for everyone, but especially individuals with melasma. We recommend and sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays and is at least SPF 30. If melasma does improve with treatment, but you are not diligent about sun protection, it can recur easily.
- Chemical Peel: This resurfacing skincare treatment help with removing the discoloration and reducing hyperpigmentation on the skin for even skin tone and texture.
- Medications: Additional methods of treatment include Hydroquinone, Tretinoin, and other medications.
At The Skin Clique, we believe in helping you feel confident in your own skin by providing convenient, affordable access to medical-grade treatments performed by board certified experts - all in the comfort of your own home. To learn more, or to schedule a free consultation, visit this link. And remember, beauty knocks.