Stop Melasma with These Treatment Options
If you're struggling with melasma, there is a wide range of treatments available to help reduce its symptoms.
From topical creams and light-based therapy to chemical peels and laser skin resurfacing, our skin specialists at TaVieMD MedSpa in Fort Worth, TX will guide you through the best options for treating this common skin condition.
Why do I have Melasma?
Melasma is an irregular patchy skin discoloration or hyperpigmentation that is most often caused by the adverse effects of hormonal changes and sun exposure on the melanocytes (pigment producing cells) of the skin.
It can occur at any age and may be genetic. Melasma is especially common in women due to hormonal imbalance during certain periods of life.
People with pre-existing conditions such as thyroid disease are also more likely to experience melasma.
Which Topical Treatments Can Treat Melasma?
Treatments that can be applied on the skin, including lightening creams and chemical peels, can be effective treatments for melasma. Lightening cream containing hydroquinone can reduce the discoloration caused by melasma, while chemical peels help to exfoliate the skin and remove the outermost layer of pigmented cells.
In some cases, topical retinoids such as tretinoin or adapalene can speed up cellular turnover, reduce skin discoloration, and stimulate collagen production.
Since melasma can recur, long term maintenance treatment is recommended.
What is the Best Chemical Peel for Melasma Treatment?
Chemical peels are one of the most popular treatments for melasma. There are a number of different types of chemical peels that can be used to improve the look of melasma-affected skin, including TCA (trichloroacetic acid) peels, glycolic acid peels, and lactic acid peels.
The VI Peel is exceptional at treating melasma as it also contains added boosters such as Retinoic acid, Kojic acid, and Hydroquinone which work on the melanocytes to reduce pigment production. It is amongst the best chemical peels for treating melasma or hyperpigmentation.
What is the Best Laser for Melasma?
Light energy treatment such as IPL, and Q-Switched lasers can be effective for treating melasma. At TaVieMD Med Spa, we treat melasma using the Aerolase 1064nm Nd-YAG laser which specifically targets and destroys pigments without damaging the surrounding skin.
These treatments tend to offer long-term reduction in discoloration, though patients require more than one treatment session. Additionally, combination therapy with other products such as topical brightening creams can help augment the effects of laser treatments on melasma.
Does Microneedling Work for Melasma Removal?
Microneedling is a skin care technique that involves the use of tiny needles to create tiny punctures in the top layer of skin. This stimulates the body’s natural healing process, which helps to reduce inflammation and give the skin a more even tone.
Microneedling can break up pigments in the skin and is safe for all skin types. Usually, visible results can be seen after one or two treatments.
How Can I Prevent Melasma?
1. Wear sunscreen: Sun exposure is one of the main causes of melasma, so wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 40 or higher every day can help protect your skin from further damage.
2. Avoid direct sun exposure: Try to stay out of direct sunlight as much as possible, especially between 10am and 4pm when the sun is at it’s highest intensity.
3. Use Retinol as part of your skincare routine.
4. Avoid triggers such as certain medications.
Where Can I find Melasma Treatment Near Me?
Typically, melasma can be treated in medical centers or medical spas with a supervising physician. At TaVieMD Medspa, Dr. Nweke, our board certified physician offers skin consultations and effective combination treatments for melasma.
If you are struggling with melasma, call us at 817-818-1740 or schedule an appointment online today.