Posted by: Skin And Cancer Institute in Medical Dermatology
Melasma
Melasma is a skin condition characterized by dark, discolored patches on the face. It is most commonly found on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and upper lip, and is caused by an overproduction of melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color) in response to sun exposure and hormonal changes. Melasma affects people of all skin types, but it is most common in women, particularly those with darker skin tones.
If you have melasma, seeing a Skin and Cancer Institute dermatologist is the best way to get an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. A SCI dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the treatment of skin conditions, and they have the expertise and tools necessary to help you manage your melasma.
One of the first steps your SCI dermatologist will take is to perform a thorough skin examination to determine the cause and extent of your melasma. They may also take a biopsy of the affected skin to rule out any other skin conditions that may be causing your discoloration.
Based on their diagnosis, your SCI dermatologist will recommend a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs. This may include a combination of topical creams and gels, chemical peels, and laser therapy.
Topical creams and gels are the most commonly used treatment for melasma. They contain ingredients like hydroquinone, kojic acid, azelaic acid, and vitamin C, which can help to lighten the discolored patches and even out your skin tone. Your SCI dermatologist may also recommend a combination of these products to maximize their effectiveness.
Chemical peels are another effective treatment for melasma. They work by removing the top layer of skin, which helps to lighten discolored patches and improve skin texture. Your SCI dermatologist may recommend a series of chemical peels to achieve the best results. Taheri Ultra Lightening Peel, designed by Dr. Daniel Taheri, is specially formulated to treat hyperpigmentation. A SCI specialist will thoroughly cleanse your skin and then apply the Taheri Ultra Lightening Peel solution. Throughout the week following treatment, the damaged top layer of skin will peel and eventually falling off. Once this layer of skin has naturally peeled away, your hyperpigmentation will be less noticeable and may even be completely eliminated. You may need multiple treatments for optimal results.
Microdermabrasion is another method that uses tiny crystals to deeply exfoliate facial skin, removing the damaged and discolored top layer of skin cells. Once your fresh, new top layer of skin heals, your hyperpigmentation will be less noticeable and may even be completely eliminated. You may need multiple treatments for optimal results.
Laser therapy is another treatment option for melasma. It uses targeted light to break up the excess melanin and stimulate the growth of new skin cells. Your SCI dermatologist will use a specific type of laser that is appropriate for your skin type and the severity of your melasma.
In severe cases, your SCI dermatologist may recommend a combination of topical treatments, chemical peels, and laser therapy to effectively manage your melasma. It is important to be patient with melasma treatment, as results may not be immediate and may take several weeks or months to become visible.
It is also important to be consistent with your treatment regimen and to avoid sun exposure as much as possible to prevent the melasma from recurring. Your SCI dermatologist may also recommend lifestyle changes, such as wearing a wide-brimmed hat and protective clothing, and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, to help prevent future outbreaks.
In conclusion, melasma is a common skin condition that can be effectively treated by a SCI dermatologist. With the right combination of topical treatments, chemical peels, and laser therapy, you can reduce the appearance of discolored patches and improve the overall appearance of your skin.