Melasma and Skin Conditioning
Melasma (also known as the mask of pregnancy in pregnant women) is a tan or dark skin discoloration mostly effecting women. It is more prominent in women with darker skin, and those contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy medications.
Within the epidermis we all have melanocytes cells that produce melanin (pigmentation). Darker skin produces more melanin. Melanin production is stimulated by the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone; especially when skin is exposed to the sun. Genetic predisposition is also a major factor in determining whether someone will develop melasma.
The discoloration usually disappears spontaneously over a period of several months. Treatments are effective in decreasing the appearance, and maintenance treatments are often needed (2-3 times per year), as melasma does comes back with continued exposure to the sun.
Dr. Melamed uses the most advances treatment options to guide your recovery. Options include:
- A comprehensive evaluation to determine depth of the melasma pigmentation
- Topical agents: including hydroquinone, retinoic acid (Tretinoin), corticosteroids and kojic acid and azelaic acid
- Microdermabrasion and chemical peels with glycolic acid and Trichloroacetic acid (TCA)
- Laser treatment with the most advanced Q-switch laser (QRejuvenation) developed specifically to treat melasma
- Oral medications such as Tranexamic Acid (TXA) are also available for specific patients
If you have any questions about Medical Peel or Micropeels or any other procedure or would like to make a Complimentary Consultation please schedule and Online Appointment or call toll free 1-88-88-West LA (310-473-1734).
