Melasma
MELASMA is an acquired pigmentary condition that affects areas exposed to the sun.
It presents itself in the form of hyperpigmented macules, symmetrically distributed. The most affected areas are:
- Forehead.
- The upper lip.
- Cheekbones.
- Chin.
In rare cases, the neckline can also be affected.
Melasma affects women more frequently than men, which suggests hormonal influence. People with a dark complexion are also more exposed.
Factors that can cause the appearance of melasma or aggravate the lesions that have already appeared:
- Pregnancy
- Use of oral contraceptives
- Medicines with photosensitizing effects
- Trauma
- Genetic predisposition, family history of melasma
- Unprotected exposure to the sun
The pigment in melasma lesions can be located superficially, at the epidermal level or deeper, at the dermal level. This is relevant from the perspective of treatment, the deeper the pigment, the harder it will be to treat.
The treatment of this pathology can seem like an endless struggle, because there is currently no therapeutic scheme with a curative effect. In other words, we can control the symptoms, we can reduce the appearance of the spots, but they will reappear in certain situations.
The first and perhaps the most important step in the prevention and treatment of melasma is photoprotection. Exposure to UV stimulates the synthesis of melanin pigment and the formation of melasma spots. Therefore, the use of products with SPF 50 will have to be part of the constant routine.
We also recommend that you focus on products with a protection factor with a mineral filter, they offer a wider spectrum of protection and are better tolerated. Alternative protection methods are also very useful and recommended, such as hats and sunglasses.
The skincare routine must also be adapted so as to include agents that put pigment production to rest: vitamin C, retinoids, niacinamide, azelaic acid.
Depigmenting agents (hydroquinone, arbutin) are used on hyperpigmented areas to reduce the pigment load. The use of these active ingredients must be supervised by a dermatologist.
It is ideal for the routine to include active combinations that put pigment production at rest, and for the scheme to be customised to the type of melasma and skin tolerance.
In the clinic, we have treatment protocols aimed at reducing the appearance of spots:
- Soft Pell + Laser Toning helps to break the pigment molecules into smaller particles so that they can be removed from the body more easily.
- Morpheus 8 stimulates collagen synthesis, tightens the skin, reduces the appearance of hyperpigmentation and provides brightness.
- In carefully selected cases, we can also use the CO2 laser to remove the cells that have stored the pigment.
Recently, an oral agent (tranexamic acid) has been approved to reduce pigmentation in melasma. It is generally well tolerated, and the results are satisfactory.
Melasma can have a strong psycho-emotional impact on patients. Patience is the key when it comes to treatment, the results are seen gradually, and the routine must be followed for a long period of time. Avoiding sun exposure and using SPF products when avoidance is not possible remain essential elements.
To see which is the best solution in your case, let’s meet for a consultation! You can contact us here.
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