Best Treatment for Melasma: Everything You Need to Know

What is Melasma? 

Melasma is a common skin disorder which appears as flat dark, brown or blue to gray patches on the skin typically seen in the face, neck and hands. Melasma is associated with other underlying conditions such as hormonal imbalance and thyroid problem. It is common among people with darker skin tone. Melasma is not a harmful skin condition, however it can be a cosmetic concern for many people.

How does Melasma occur?

Melasma occurs due to the overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color.  The melanocytes become overactive because of various triggering factors which leads to deposition of high melanin pigments in the skin which will appear as dark patches. 

Types of Melasma

Melasma are generally classified into three types depending on the depth of pigmentation. These are the following types:

• Epidermal Melasma:  is the type of melasma that is characterized by the appearance of excess melanin or the dark spots in the superficial layers of the skin.
• Dermal Melasma: is the type of melasma that affects the deep layers of the skin by producing excess melanin pigment.
• Mixed Melasma:  which includes both Epidermal & Dermal types.

Causes of Melasma

The exact cause of Melasma is still unknown. However, overactivity of melanocytes which results to production of high amount of melanin pigments can be triggered by following factors:

• Sun exposure: Exposure to UV light from the sun over stimulates melanocyte activity leading to production of melanin pigments. 
• Hormonal Changes: Fluctuation in hormones in situations in cases like pregnancy, endocrine disorders, and hormonal replacement therapy are strongly linked to melasma. 
• Genetics: Family history of having melasma predisposes individuals to develop the skin condition
• Skin Type: Individuals with darken skin tone are attributed to high number of melanocytes in the skin which may result in the development of pigments. 

Symptoms and signs of Melasma

Melasma is a chronic condition which develops gradually. Here are the signs and symptoms of Melasma:

• Dark-colored or brown patches in common areas such as the cheeks, upper lip and forehead.
• Patches have symmetrical pattern and well-defined borders
• No other signs of irritation, aside from the dark patch.
• Usually grows gradually and may become noticeable in the passage of time. 

Treatment for Melasma

Medical Procedures

Nowadays we have many treatments & procedures that help us to treat & reduce pigment. SKIN111 offers numerous treatment options in managing Melasma. These includes: 

1. Pico Laser: Pico laser deliver ultra-short pulses of energy to the skin in picoseconds (trillionths of a second). This rapid energy delivery shatters pigment particles without heating surrounding tissues excessively. Picosecond lasers are effective for treating hyperpigmentation, including stubborn pigmented lesions like melasma, with minimal downtime and risk of side effects.

2. MOXI: MOXI is a fractional non-ablative laser that targets pigmentation issues and overall skin texture. It delivers laser energy in a fractional pattern, creating micro-injuries in the skin to stimulate collagen production and promote skin renewal. MOXI is suitable for treating hyperpigmentation, including melasma, while also improving skin tone, texture, and overall appearance.

3. Erbium Glass Laser: Erbium Glass lasers emit wavelengths that are absorbed by water in the skin, causing controlled damage to the upper layers. This promotes collagen production and skin renewal. Erbium Glass lasers can effectively treat hyperpigmentation, including melasma, by targeting excess pigment and stimulating skin rejuvenation.

4. Fractional Laser: Fractional lasers create microscopic treatment zones in the skin, leaving surrounding tissue untouched. This promotes faster healing and reduces downtime compared to traditional laser resurfacing. Fractional lasers can target hyperpigmentation by breaking down excess melanin and promoting collagen remodeling, making them effective for treating conditions like melasma.

5. Innovyal Lightening Action is an exclusive combination of Hyaluronic Acid associated with Tranexamic Acid & Niacinamide (Vitamin B3), designed for reducing the pigmentation caused by aging, sun exposure, acne scarring or hormonal influences.

Natural and Home Remedies

Treating melasma at home can be challenging, but there are several steps and over-the-counter treatments that may help improve the condition. Here are some home treatment options:

Topical Treatments

1. Hydroquinone Cream: Skin111 cream containing hydroquinone can help lighten dark patches. 

2. Retinoids: These are derivatives of vitamin A and can help promote cell turnover and reduce pigmentation. Prescription-strength retinoids like tretinoin are more effective than over-the-counter options.

3. Azelaic Acid: This can help reduce inflammation and pigmentation.

4. Vitamin C: Serums containing vitamin C can help lighten dark spots and improve skin texture.

5. Niacinamide: This form of vitamin B3 can help reduce pigmentation and improve skin barrier function.

While these home treatments can help, melasma can be stubborn and may require professional treatments for significant improvement.

Benefits of Melasma Treatment

Melasma is not a harmful skin condition, however it is a chronic skin disorder which can become a cosmetic concern for many individuals. Melasma treatments are focused on the reduction of pigments by controlling the melanocytes and preventing the spread of pigmentation. Melasma can be successfully managed with a combination of professional treatments and treatments of underlying factors. 

Why do women get melasma when they’re pregnant?

It is because of the hormonal changes during pregnancy, which influence the melanocyte activity. 

Is melasma painful?

Melasma is not a painful skin condition, and it is not associated with other skin conditions aside from the dark-colored patches with defined borders and symmetrical locations. 

How to prevent Melasma from developing?

Melasma can be prevented by avoiding the triggering factors such as sun exposure, poor skin care routine, and stress. 

Conclusion

Understanding the specific triggers and patterns for an individual can help in tailoring an effective treatment plan and managing the condition more effectively. Effective management often involves minimizing sun exposure, using broad-spectrum sunscreens, and employing topical treatments like hydroquinone or retinoids to reduce pigmentation. In some cases, procedures like chemical peels or laser treatments may be recommended by a dermatologist.