Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that typically appears as dark brown or grayish-brown patches on the skin. It is most commonly seen on the face, especially on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and chin. While melasma can affect anyone, it’s more common in women, especially during pregnancy or when using birth control.
The condition occurs when there is an overproduction of melanin (the pigment responsible for skin color) due to various factors, including hormonal changes, sun exposure, and genetic predisposition.
The primary causes of melasma are:
Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy (often referred to as the "mask of pregnancy"), birth control pills, or hormone replacement therapy can trigger melasma due to fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels.
Sun Exposure: UV rays can worsen melasma, causing the dark patches to become more noticeable.
Genetics: If you have a family history of melasma, you may be more prone to developing it.
Skin Irritation or Injury: Some individuals may develop melasma after trauma to the skin or following an irritating skincare treatment.
Melasma can be persistent and may not fade on its own, especially if triggered by sun exposure or hormonal changes. If you notice dark patches on your face that are affecting your confidence, it’s a good idea to consult a dermatologist. West Derm Center can help assess the severity of your melasma and create a tailored treatment plan.
Signs that you may need treatment include:
Persistent dark patches that don’t fade with time.
Uneven skin tone that affects your overall appearance.
New dark spots after pregnancy or hormonal changes.
At West Derm Center, we offer several effective treatments for melasma, designed to reduce pigmentation and restore your skin's natural tone.
Laser technology, such as Fractional CO2 or Intense Pulsed Light (IPL), can target melanin deep in the skin and break down the dark pigmentation. These treatments can significantly reduce the appearance of melasma and help you achieve a more even complexion.
Chemical peels use exfoliating acids to remove the top layer of skin, which helps fade melasma and improves skin texture. This treatment can also promote collagen production, making your skin smoother and more radiant.
We offer prescription-strength creams, including hydroquinone, which can lighten the dark patches caused by melasma. Other options like retinoids and vitamin C can also help brighten skin and even out pigmentation.
Microneedling creates tiny channels in the skin to stimulate collagen production, which can help lighten melasma and improve the texture of your skin. When combined with Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), microneedling can accelerate the skin’s healing process and provide even better results.
One of the most important steps in managing melasma is protecting your skin from further sun exposure. We provide guidance on using broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF 30 or higher to prevent UV rays from worsening melasma. Consistent sun protection is crucial for long-term results.
Personalized Care: We understand that every skin type is unique. Our dermatologists will assess your melasma and create a customized treatment plan to achieve the best results.
Advanced Technology: We use cutting-edge technologies like lasers and microneedling to treat melasma effectively and safely.
Expert Dermatologists: Our team specializes in skin conditions like melasma, ensuring you receive the highest level of care.
