Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown and grey-brown patches to form on the patient’s face. Also known as “the mask of pregnancy,” the condition is much more common in women than men. While the causes of the condition are not fully understood, our team at Georgia Dermatology Partners has found success providing melasma treatment in Loganville, GA with a combination of medical therapies, laser treatments, and chemical peels. We have therapies tailored to each patient's individual skin type and complexion.
What Is Melasma?
Melasma is a common skin problem that affects mostly women. The grey-brown patches that are a result usually develop on the face: on the cheeks, bridge of the nose, forehead, chin, and above the upper lip. Less commonly, it may appear on neck and arms.
These discolored patches are asymptomatic and non textured.
What Causes Melasma?
Although a direct cause of melasma is unclear, there are some common triggers:
- Sun exposure — Ultraviolet (UV) light from sun exposure stimulates the melanocytes. This is the skin’s protection mechanism against sun damage, darkening the skin. People who get melasma usually have reoccurrences during the summer months.
- Hormonal activity — There is a relationship between hormonal changes and melasma. Pregnant women often get melasma, and their wildly fluctuating hormone levels are thought to be the trigger. In fact, one half of all melasma cases develop initially during pregnancy. Also, women on birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy patients are prone to the condition.
Who’s Likely To Develop Melasma?
Women are far more likely to develop melasma; just 10 percent of cases occur in males. Skin of color patients are more likely to develop melasma because they already have more active melanocytes (pigment producing cells) in their skin. Additionally there is a hereditary component.
What Is The Difference Between Melasma And Hyperpigmentation?
Melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation. Hyperpigmentation simply refers to any type of darkening of the skin. This can be caused by anything, from sun exposure to freckles to acne scarring.
Melasma is chiefly the result of estrogen; that’s why 90 percent of cases occur in women. The hormone fluctuations that come with pregnancy, from certain birth control pills, and hormone therapy can trigger it. Sun exposure and heat exacerbate melasma.
Another key difference between hyperpigmentation and melasma is the appearance. Hyperpigmentation can show up as random spots or patches anywhere on the face and neck. Melasma appears in blotchy, but symmetrical patterns on the cheeks, the bridge of the nose, forehead, chin, and upper lip.
Hyperpigmentation is a result of external factors, whereas melasma is affected by internal factors.
What is the Best Treatment For Melasma?
Melasma can fade, as mentioned above, when issues such as hormone fluctuations level off. But if a woman needs to stay on the pill, or if her melasma simply keeps returning, the experienced dermatologists at Georgia Dermatology may uses any of these treatment approaches.
- Hydroquinone — This medicine lightens the skin; it is often the first treatment option. Our doctors can prescribe more effective hydroquinone than is available over the counter.
- Tretinoin, Vitamin C, Kojic and Azaleic Acid — These options can enhance skin brightening. The acids are naturally occurring non irritating and cause skin brightening. Vitamin C is a natural antioxidant that can break down pigment and be protective when worn daily. Tretinoin causes increased penetration of other medication and also natural skin peeling.
- Laser treatment — Sophisticated laser technology can effectively remove areas of persistent melasma in all complexions.
- Chemical peels — Chemical peels remove the top layer of the epidermis and can be effective for lightening areas with melasma. At GDP, we have several medical strength chemical peels available for all complexions. We also have a maintenance regimen that will offer continued improvement and prevention.
How Long Will It Take To See Results From My Melasma Treatment?
We have great success helping patients with persistent melasma. Treatment may take a few months, however, so patients shouldn’t expect immediate results. Also, once your melasma clears, we will recommend maintenance therapy to keep it from returning.
Are There Side Effects From These Melasma Treatments?
These are safe treatments, but sometimes they can actually darken the areas you’re trying to lighten. This can vary with different patients. They can also cause skin irritation.
What Should I Do To Try And Prevent Melasma From Returning?
After receiving a melasma treatment in Loganville, GA, there are some tips you can follow to help prevent it from reoccurring, especially if you have darker skin tones:
- Wear sunscreen — Sun exposure triggers melasma, so wearing sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 is recommended at all times. Your sunscreen needs to protect against both UV-A and UV-B rays.
- Wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses — Some studies show that even with sunscreen on, some people still develop melasma. It’s thought that longer UV wavelengths may be to blame. Dermatologist recommended sunscreens that are physical vehicles such as zinc or titanium oxide, are more protective than chemical sunscreens. So, if you’re prone to developing melasma, protective clothing such as polarizable eyewear and wide brimmed hats are a must.
- Opt for gentle cosmetics and skincare products — If you’re using products that tend to sting or burn when applied, they can worsen melasma.
- Avoid waxing — Waxing areas such as above the upper lip can cause skin inflammation that worsens melasma.
Schedule Your Consultation For Melasma Treatment in GA
If you are interested in learning more about how getting melasma treatment in Loganville, GA can help your skin, contact Georgia Dermatology Partners at 770.972.4845 today to schedule an appointment at any of our 4 convenient locations.
