Home Treatments Skin Concerns Melasma

Melasma

Melasma is a common skin condition characterised by pigmentation, primarily affecting areas such as the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. It is often triggered by hormonal changes, such as pregnancy, the use of birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, or prolonged sun exposure.

Melasma can be difficult to manage, often requiring a long-term, multifaceted approach. Treatment typically involves a combination of topical and oral medications, laser therapy and regular review and treatment to help control and reduce pigmentation.

Treatment Options

Topical Treatments

A combination of both chemical and tinted physical sunscreen is the gold standard for protection from UV and physical light. Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent that is useful in melasma management. It can be used alone or compounded with retinoids and corticosteroids to inhibit melanin production, promote cellular turnover and reduce inflammation. Other product include azelaic acid which reduces melanin production with less irritation compared to hydroquinone, vitamin C to brighten the skin and reduce discolouration, and kojic Acid – natural alternative to hydroquinone.

Oral Medications

The most useful oral medication for management of melasma is tranexamic acid. It decreases melanin formation by inhibiting melanin production (by blocking an enzyme that promotes melanin production), reducing inflammation, and improving blood vessel function
(as excessive vascular activity can contribute to the darkening of melasma patches).

Laser Therapy

The Picoway laser is a useful tool in the management of melasma, however it should be used in addition to other management tools such as avoidance of triggers, sun protection, skin care and medications to manage melasma. The Picoway uses ultra-short pulses and photoacoustic technology to gently breakdown pigment in the skin. Multiple sessions are usually required for optimal results, and maintenance sessions are required long term.

How it Works

Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation at O’Skin, we will assess the severity of your melasma and discuss your medical history, potential triggers, and lifestyle factors. This helps in developing a personalised treatment plan that may include a combination of topical treatments, oral medications, and/or laser therapy. The consultation will also include a discussion of the importance of sun protection to prevent further pigmentation.

Treatment

Management of melasma is complex and requires regular visits. Depending on the treatment chosen, it may take several weeks or months to see noticeable improvements. For laser treatments, multiple sessions are required to achieve optimal results.

Aftercare

Consistent and diligent sun protection is vital. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and consider tinted physical sunscreens. Avoid sun exposure during peak hours and wear hats to protect the skin. Follow the prescribed skincare routine, which may include medicated creams, gentle cleansing, moisturising, and avoiding harsh or irritating products. Follow-Up Appointments are necessary to monitor progress and adjust treatments as needed.

Managing melasma requires consistency, patience, and careful management. By following your customised treatment plan and making sun protection a priority, you can significantly reduce pigmentation.

Frequently asked questions

Have another question? Reach out today.

Melasma

Treatment Options

Topical Treatments

Oral Medications

Laser Therapy

How it Works

Initial Consultation

Treatment

Aftercare

Frequently asked questions

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur?

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur?

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur?

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur?

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur?

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet consectetur?