What is Melasma? Causes and Treatments for Dark Patches on Skin

What is Melasma? 

Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown or grayish-brown patches to appear on the face, particularly on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip. It is more common in women, especially during pregnancy (often called the "mask of pregnancy"). 

Causes of Melasma 

• Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the most common trigger for melasma. 
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during pregnancy, while taking birth control pills, or during hormone replacement therapy, can increase the risk of melasma. 
• Genetics: Some people may have a genetic predisposition to developing melasma. 
• Medications: Certain medications, such as some antiseizure medications, can increase the risk of melasma. 

Treating Melasma 

Melasma can be challenging to treat, and results may vary. Here are some common treatment options: 

Topical Treatments: 

• Hydroquinone: This is a common ingredient in prescription-strength creams that can help lighten the skin. 
• Retinoids: Retinoids, such as tretinoin, can help exfoliate the skin and improve cell turnover. 
• Azelaic Acid: This over-the-counter cream can help lighten the skin and reduce inflammation. 
• Kojic Acid: This natural ingredient can help to inhibit melanin production. 
• Vitamin C: Vitamin C can help to brighten the skin and protect it from sun damage. 

Professional Treatments: 

• VI Peel: The VI Peel exfoliates the skin, removing pigmented cells and stimulating cell turnover. This helps lighten dark spots, even out skin tone, and improve the overall appearance of melasma. 
• Microneedling: Microneedling creates tiny punctures in the skin, stimulating collagen production and enhancing the absorption of topical treatments. This promotes the turnover of pigmented cells, reducing the appearance of melasma by improving skin texture and tone. 
• Chemical Peels: Chemical peels exfoliate the outer layers of skin, removing pigmented cells and promoting the growth of new, even-toned skin. This helps lighten dark spots and improve skin texture, reducing the appearance of melasma. 
• DiamondGlow: DiamondGlow facials exfoliate the skin with a diamond-tipped wand, removing surface layers and revealing fresher skin. It also infuses serums that target pigmentation, improving skin tone and lightening melasma spots. 
• Clear + Brilliant: Clear + Brilliant uses fractional laser technology to create controlled micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen production and improving skin texture. This helps fade pigmented areas and even out skin tone, reducing the appearance of melasma. 
• HydraFacial: HydraFacial exfoliates the skin, extracts impurities, and delivers targeted serums with ingredients that address hyperpigmentation. This combination improves skin texture, evens out skin tone, and can help reduce the appearance of melasma. 

Sun Protection: 

• Consistent use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is crucial for preventing melasma from worsening. 
• Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm). 
• Wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and long sleeves. 

Disclaimer: This information is for general knowledge and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a dermatologist or other qualified professional like the ones at Evolve Med Spa for diagnosis and treatment options. 

Important Note: Melasma can be stubborn to treat, and it may take several months to see significant improvement. Consistency with treatment and sun protection is key to achieving optimal results.