Melasma Treatment Options: No One-Size-Fits-All Solution
- Reduces the appearance of dark spots and patches
- Evens out skin tone and pigmentation
- Targets hormone-related hyperpigmentation
- Minimizes the impact of sun exposure on melasma
- Non-invasive procedures with minimal downtime
How Melasma Treatment Works for More Even Skin Tone
Melasma is a form of hormone-related hyperpigmentation that requires targeted treatment. At Clinique-K, we offer a variety of options, including chemical peels, light laser treatments, and topical depigmenting creams, to reduce the appearance of melasma and give you a more even complexion. Each case is different, so we assess your skin type, melasma severity, and lifestyle factors to create a customized treatment plan.
Different Types of Melasma Pigmentation
The difference between melasma and other forms of hyperpigmentation such as sun spots, dark spots and age spots is melasma is influenced by hormonal changes. Fluctuations in estrogen or progesterone can be caused by pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT). It is often referred to as the “pregnancy mask” because it commonly affects women during pregnancy.
There are three types of melasma, each requiring specific treatment approaches:
- 1. Epidermal Melasma:
Characteristics: Brown patches with well-defined borders. The excess pigment is located in the epidermis, the outer layer of the skin. - 2. Dermal Melasma:
Characteristics: Bluish or gray-brown patches with less defined borders. The pigment is located in the dermis, the deeper skin layer. - 3. Mixed Melasma:
Characteristics: Brownish-gray patches with varying pigmentation. This is the most common form of melasma and involves pigment in both the epidermis and dermis.
Our Patient-Centered Approach to Stubborn Melasma Treatment
Low Level Laser, Chemical Peelings and Topical Creams
At Clinique-K, we believe in a personalized approach to treating melasma. Our treatments include chemical peels, light laser therapy, and topical treatments, all designed to target pigmentation and improve your skin’s overall appearance.
Chemical Peels:
- Laser/Energy Devices can be good for melasma for certain individuals. We use laser very judiciously for patients with melasma in order not to make the condition worse.
- Chemical peels are a popular option for treating melasma. By promoting skin cell turnover, they help reduce pigmentation and reveal fresh, healthy skin underneath. We use a combination of lactic acid, salicylic acid, and resorcinol to gently exfoliate and remove pigmented areas. After the peel, a depigmenting cream is applied to further lighten the skin.
At-Home Skincare Melasma and Hyperpigmentation Treatment: Retinol Complex, Kojic Acid, Hydroquinone, Sunscreen / Sun Protection
The above are recommended to maintain results between treatments. Sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is essential to protect your skin from further damage and prevent the recurrence of dark spots.
Is Melasma Treatment Right for You?
Melasma treatment is ideal for individuals with dark spots, brown patches, or discoloration due to hormonal changes. If you have noticed dark patches on your face or other sun-exposed areas and suspect hormonal fluctuations (e.g., pregnancy, birth control) as the cause, melasma treatment could be right for you.
The best candidates for melasma treatment are those who understand that ongoing management and sun protection are key to maintaining results. Regular use of sunscreen and avoiding excessive sun exposure are crucial for preventing melasma flare-ups.
Recovery After Melasma Treatment
At Clinique-K, we prioritize your comfort throughout the treatment process. After a chemical peel, you may experience slight peeling or redness over the next few days, but this typically resolves quickly with our post-treatment cream. If you receive light laser treatments, mild redness or warmth in the treated area is common and should subside within a few hours.
To ensure lasting results, it is essential to apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily and avoid direct sun exposure. Your skin will look refreshed and more even-toned immediately after treatment, with continued improvement over the following days as your skin heals and regenerates.
Melasma Treatment FAQs
Melasma cannot be permanently cured but can be effectively managed with ongoing treatments like chemical peels, laser therapies, and topical creams. Maintenance and sun protection are key to long-term results.
Most patients begin to see results after 4-6 treatments, with improvements noticeable after a few weeks. Maintenance treatments and sun protection are essential for lasting results.
Yes. Daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, along with wearing hats and avoiding direct sun exposure, can help prevent melasma from worsening.
Melasma treatments like chemical peels and laser therapy are typically painless, with patients experiencing only mild tingling or warmth during the procedures.
For best results, maintenance treatments may be required every 4-6 months, especially in sun-exposed areas. Regular sunscreen use is crucial to prevent flare-ups.
