Melasma is a common skin problem that causes dark, discolored patches on the skin. In about 50-80% of the cases, melasma appears over the cheeks, forehead, nose, upper lip and chin.
Melasma is also called the "mask of pregnancy" as it occurs often in pregnant women. Though men can get it too, about 90% of people with melasma are women.
Symptoms
Melasma causes patches of discoloration or hyperpigmentation on the skin. It typically develops on the face symmetrically, with matching patches on both sides of the face.
Brownish colored patches usually appear on the:
Cheeks
Forehead
Bridge of the nose
Chin
Though melasma doesn't do any physical harm, it can cause cosmetic concerns that lower one’s confidence.
Melasma Causes
Family history. 60% report affected family members
Excessive sun exposure. The UVA/UVB rays stimulate the melanocytes in the skin, resulting in hyperpigmentation. Melasma can reappear after natural fading or treatment because of skin exposure to the sun.
Pregnancy. Melasma is more common in women. Researchers have explored a high association between women and melasma during high-hormone level conditions like pregnancy.
Birth control pills
Those with darker skin tone. People of color have more active melanocytes (cells that cause pigment), to begin with, so they’re more likely to experience melasma after sun exposure.
Melasma Treatments
Melasma is largely treatable in most cases. A consultation with providers will help determine treatment options. The available procedures depend on the condition of your melasma and your aesthetic goals.
At our medspa in Chandler, AZ, we offer different procedures to remove or reduce the appearance of melasma.
MOXI Laser: Get a handle on pigmentation such as melasma. The treatment is also great for anti-aging, brighter, younger-looking skin with decreased pore size and improved tone and texture.
Laser Resurfacing: Laser resurfacing is designed to reduce signs of aging and skin discoloration such as melasma. Our aestheticians use an ablative erbium laser to remove the layer of the skin and cause brown spots to fade. Laser resurfacing requires the skill of a professional, otherwise, one might experience hyperpigmentation post-treatment.
Light Therapy: Broadband Light therapy uses the world's most powerful intense pulsed light to target problem areas. The procedure targets the deeper layers of skin and rejuvenates its appearance.
Chemical Peels: Chemical peels exfoliate and remove layers of damaged and overly pigmented skin. Different levels of concentration will be applied based on the desired result. It's recommended that one should consult a highly-trained provider to find out if this option is right for you.
Microdermabrasion: The procedure can help treat brown spots and uneven pigmentation on the surface of the skin. The treatment stimulates cell production while ablating the top layers of the skin.
Medical Spa in Chandler, AZ
The symptoms of melasma can affect appearance and cause emotional distress. The good news is that melasma can be treated with a variety of cosmetic procedures. Contact our aesthetic clinic today to have your skin examined and learn more about the treatment options.
Why Lazaderm Laser & Aesthetics
Up to 18 Years of Experience in an Aesthetic Clinic
Highly trained and skillful aestheticians and providers.
Free consultation for every patient.