Treating Melasma and Hyperpigmentation
September 2009
By Samantha O'Dell, Aesthetician and Facial Laser Specialist
What is Melasma?
Melasma can affect anyone but is particularly common in women; especially pregnant women or those who are taking birth control or hormone replacement therapy medications. It shows up as dark, irregular patches on the upper cheek, nose, upper lip and forehead. Sometimes it is known as the Mask of Pregnancy. It is thought to be caused by fluctuation in hormones which over-stimulate the melanocyte. Melasma can be exacerbated by sun exposure or exposure to extreme heat.What is Hyperpigmentation?
Hyperpigmentation is the darkening of an area of skin due to increased melanin. Melanin absorbs the energy of the sun's harmful rays in order to protect the skin. Hyperpigmentation is caused by sun exposure, inflammation or other skin injuries, including acne. It is diffuse and affects the face, chest, arms and backs of hands.
What can HLC do for these conditions?
The FotoFacial is the first and only technology that uses combined energies to effectively and gently restore and rejuvenate the appearance of your skin with no patient downtime. With a series of full-face treatments and specific light parameters you will see consistent and dramatic improvements in sun damage, flushing, redness and broken capillaries as they lighten and gradually fade. Photo damaged skin with predominate brown spots usually respond well to 3 treatment sessions performed 3-4 weeks apart. Rosacea, red vessels and capillaries usually respond well to 5 treatment sessions performed 3-4 weeks apart.
The Melanage™ peel is especially effective in treating pigment issues and melasma. This superficial peel involves a medicated masque and an at-home regimen. The masque is applied during an office visit where it is compounded freshly by our highly trained technicians to ensure its potency and reliability. You remove the masque at home after a required length of time that is dependent upon your skin type. There is an easy-to-follow at-home regimen involving the application of several Melanage™ products following masque removal. Down time varies. Peeling often begins on the second or third day and may last up to three days.
It is important to wear sunscreen to protect your melasma and hyperpigmentation from getting worse. A single day of excess sun exposure can undo months of treatments.
Topical Creams:
Some lightening of melasma and hyperpigmentation can be done with topical creams. The creams may include hydroquinone, kojic acid, azelaic acid and tretinoin (Vitamin A). At Harmony Laser Center, we offer prescription strength topical creams to treat your pigmentation issues.
If you would like to know more, we offer free consultations and skin analysis. Call to schedule today.
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