Melasma refers to the discoloration that typically appears on the forehead, cheeks, and chin, and may spread to the neck and shoulders. It occurs as a result of increased melanin production, the pigment responsible for skin coloration, and can be triggered by factors such as hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, contraceptive use, excessive sun exposure without protection, and other causes.
Melasma is more prevalent in women, but men can also experience this condition. It is categorized into three types: dermal, epidermal, and mixed. Specific treatments can effectively eliminate melasma.
Discover effective clinical treatments for combating melasma by reading further in this article!
Micro Needle
The micro-needling procedure involves using a specialized tool with small needles to penetrate the skin and encourage collagen production, leading to improved skin appearance.
- Reduction of lines and creases.
- Stain removal.
- Acne scars disappearance.
- reduced skin greasiness.
The micro needle can be used on areas such as the eyes and lips, as well as being recommended for treating hair loss.
The procedure should not be done on individuals with blood clotting issues, skin disorders, or diabetes. It is crucial to avoid applying it on areas with burns, warts, active herpes, or acne.
Exfoliating treatments
The peeling treatment involves using exfoliating agents to remove a portion of the skin’s dermis or epidermis, with varying levels of depth depending on the method used. The results are gradual and irreversible.
Chemical peeling, often suggested for melasma treatment, involves acidic substances like trichloroacetic acid, lactic acid, retinoic acid, and glycolic acid to promote exfoliation.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a form of skincare called crystal peeling, involving the application of aluminum oxide microcrystals to the skin using specialized equipment.
The particles are then removed using a vacuum system to help renew the damaged tissue, progressing from a gentle to a more robust treatment until the desired outcome is achieved.
The method helps get rid of skin issues like melasma, freckles, wrinkles, and stretch marks, while also providing a youthful and glowing effect by improving skin hydration and rejuvenation. Since it’s a mechanical process, there is no residue left behind, reducing the risk of sun damage, although it’s recommended to avoid overexposure.
Tranexamic acid is a substance often used for medical purposes.
Tranexamic acid hinders plasmin and aids in speedy restoration of the discolored skin barrier during melasma treatment. It also diminishes dermal blood vessels, curbs melanocyte growth, and inhibits melanin production in melanocytes.
Using tranexamic acid along with 12 weeks of microsweeping yields positive outcomes.
The aesthetic management of melasma using tranexamic acid can be given orally, topically, or through intradermal administration. For quicker skin lightening, the intradermal method is suggested.
Low-power laser
Laser therapy is commonly used in treating melasma and is considered a third-line treatment due to the risk of post-treatment hyperpigmentation.
The chance of the skin being sensitive during the removal of epidermal layers and melanocytes exists, which could lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation despite the quick results of the peeling process.
Photoprotection refers to the protection against the harmful effects of the sun’s rays.
Photoprotection is linked to the application of sunscreen as a key element in melasma care. Photoprotective products contain protective ingredients like enzymes that impact melanogenesis and tyrosinase inhibitors, including hydroquinone, retinoic acid, and kojic acid.
Azelaic acid is a beneficial asset that can prevent the formation of free radicals caused by UV exposure and reduce the activity of melanocytes. It inhibits the development of new hyperpigmentation and the worsening of existing skin discolorations.
The minimum recommended UV protection to prevent and reduce melasma is SPF 30. It should be applied daily and reapplied every two to three hours, even when indoors at locations like home or work.
When purchasing a sunscreen, it is crucial to be cautious. For instance, for effective melasma reduction on the face, it is advisable to choose products with added color. These sunscreens provide both physical and chemical protection by using pigments that help prevent darkening of the skin imperfections.
How to manage melasma on a daily basis?
You can manage melasma through simple daily practices in addition to clinical treatments mentioned earlier. Seeking advice from a dermatologist is a great step as they can recommend products to decrease skin hyperpigmentation and inhibit melanin production.
Some dermocosmetics can be purchased to reduce melasma, including items containing glycolic acid, kojic acid, retinoic acid, and ferulic acid. Other ingredients like arbutin, resveratrol, and hydroquinone also help in lightening stains.
Topical vitamin E and C can help reduce melasma by acting as powerful antioxidants and boosting the effectiveness of sunscreen. Additionally, they can lighten the skin and prevent the formation of other dark spots.
Knowing certain treatments for melasma is essential for getting rid of it once it has already developed on your face and body. However, it is important to note that it is feasible to prevent its occurrence by taking simple precautions like wearing sunscreen daily, avoiding sun exposure, using hats, and other preventative measures.
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