Melasma is a common skin condition that causes dark patches to appear on the face. It’s usually caused by exposure to the sun, but it can also be triggered by pregnancy, hormonal changes, or certain medications.
Melasma is not harmful. However, it can be aesthetically displeasing to some people. If you’re concerned about your skin and probably wondering how to treat melasma, there are several treatment options that can help you reduce its appearance.
What is the safest way to remove Melasma?
Melasma can be a difficult condition to treat. This is because it can be difficult to avoid triggers, such as sun exposure.
That doesn’t mean you have to live with it, though, especially if it’s impacting your quality of life. There are many treatment options available that can help to reduce the appearance of melasma. These include;
● Topical creams and ointments
Topical treatments are often the first line of defense against melasma. These include prescription creams and ointments that contain potent active ingredients like hydroquinone, tretinoin, or corticosteroids.
Hydroquinone is the most common active ingredient in melasma treatments. It works by inhibiting the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.
Tretinoin is another common active ingredient in melasma treatments. It helps to lighten dark patches of skin and improve overall skin tone.
Corticosteroids are also sometimes used in melasma treatments. They work by reducing inflammation and pigmentation. However, they should only be used for short periods of time because they can cause side effects like thinning of the skin if used for too long.
● Laser therapy
Laser therapy is another option for treating melasma. Laser therapy for melasma uses concentrated beams of light to break down the melanin pigment in the skin.
Melanin is what gives skin its color, so by breaking it down, laser therapy can help to lighten the affected areas of the skin. Laser therapy is usually carried out over a course of treatments, and most people will see a significant improvement in their skin tone after just a few sessions.
Laser therapy is safe and effective, and there are no side effects. However, it’s important to remember that melasma can often recur, so you may need to have regular treatments to keep the condition under control.
● Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion is a minimally-invasive procedure that uses fine crystals to exfoliate the top layer of skin. This helps to remove dead skin cells and reveal new, brighter skin beneath. Microdermabrasion can also help to reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and acne scars.
● Chemical peels
Chemical peels are another option for treating melasma. They work by using a chemical solution to exfoliate the top layer of skin.
This helps to remove dead skin cells and reveal new, brighter skin beneath. Chemical peels can be done at different depths, depending on the severity of melasma.
Superficial peels are usually done in a series of treatments spaced a few weeks apart. Medium-depth or deep peels are usually done as a single treatment.
● Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is a cosmetic procedure that uses a rotating brush to remove the outer layer of skin. Dermabrasion can be used to improve the appearance of melasma by removing the top layer of skin and allowing new, unblemished skin to grow in its place.
The procedure is typically performed by a dermatologist or plastic surgeon. It can be done as an outpatient procedure, meaning you won’t need to stay in the hospital overnight. Recovery from dermabrasion for melasma usually takes about two weeks.
During this time, your skin will be sensitive, and you’ll need to avoid sun exposure. After recovery, you should see a significant improvement in the appearance of your melasma.
What should you not do with Melasma?
As explained before, melasma is not harmful but can be a nuisance and make you feel self-conscious. There are several things you should not do if you have melasma, as they can make the condition worse. These include;
● Extensive exposure to sunlight or sunbeds
Exposure to sunlight is thought to trigger melasma in people susceptible to the condition. This is why melasma is sometimes known as “the mask of pregnancy” or “chloasma,” as it’s often associated with pregnancy and hormone therapy.
Sunbeds can also trigger melasma. This is because they emit ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can stimulate melanin production.
If you have melasma, it’s important to avoid extensive exposure to sunlight or sunbeds. Use a high-factor sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Wear protective clothing, such as a hat or scarf, when you’re outdoors.
● Using products that contain harsh chemicals, such as exfoliating scrubs
Using products that contain harsh chemicals can further irritate your skin if you have melasma. Harsh chemicals can also interfere with the effectiveness of prescription medications you may be using to treat your melasma, so it’s best to avoid them.
Instead, try using natural products that are gentle on your skin. There are many options available, so find one that works best for you and stick with it.
● Using strong topical steroids on the affected area
Topical steroids are sometimes used to treat melasma. However, using potent topical steroids on the affected area can actually make melasma worse.
This is because steroids can cause the skin to thin and become more sunlight-sensitive. If you’re using topical steroids to treat your melasma, make sure to use a low-potency steroid and only apply it to the affected area.
Conclusion
Melasma is a common skin condition that can be annoying but is not harmful, so there is no need to worry. Just be sure to take precautions against exposure to sunlight or other triggers and use gentle, natural products on your skin. If you are considering melasma treatment, be sure to consult with a board-certified dermatologist to find the best option for you.
At Veritas, we offer various treatments for melasma, including superficial peels, medium-depth peels, and dermabrasion. We will work with you to find the best treatment option for your individual case.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation. We look forward to helping you achieve clear, beautiful skin!
Veritas Clinic Singapore – FUE Hair Transplant | Acne Scar Removal | Tattoo Removal
13 Stamford Rd, B2-35 Capitol Singapore, Singapore 178905
+65 8129 9789
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