Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown or blue-gray patches on the face, neck, and other areas of the body that are exposed to the sun. It is more common in women than men, and it is often associated with pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormone therapy. There are many new treatment technique to reduce the severity of melasma.
Causes of Melasma
The exact cause of melasma is not known, but it is believed to be related to hormonal changes, sun exposure, and genetics. Women who are pregnant or taking birth control pills or hormone therapy are more likely to develop melasma. Sun exposure is also a major factor in the development of melasma, as it triggers the production of melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin. Genetics may also play a role in the development of melasma, as it tends to run in families.
Symptoms of Melasma
The most common symptom of melasma is the appearance of brown or blue-gray patches on the face, neck, and other areas of the body that are exposed to the sun. These patches are usually symmetrical and have an ill-defined or well-defined border. They may also be accompanied by itching or burning, but this is rare.
Diagnosis of Melasma
Melasma is usually diagnosed by a doctor based on the appearance of the pattern of pigmentation. We may use a special imagining device to check the extend of melasma. It is important to confirm the diagnosis with a doctor before starting any treatment.
Treatment of Melasma
There are different treatment options available for melasma in LM SKINCENTRE Hong Kong, and the choice of treatment depends on the severity of the condition, the patient’s skin type and coexisting skin problems. LM SKINCENTRE utilizes a combination of different treatment modalities to maximize the efficiency of treatment result.
Our treatment includes:
Skin-lightening agents
Hydroquinone based products-
Hydroquinone is the most commonly used ingredient in topical creams for melasma. It works by inhibiting the production of melanin in the skin, which can help to lighten the skin and reduce the appearance of melasma. We use ZO Skin Health which is a prescription-strength creams, and it is usually applied twice a day for several months.
Non-hydroquinone-based products-
Retinoid is another ingredient that is commonly used in topical creams for melasma. It works by increasing the turnover of skin cells, which can help to reduce the appearance of melasma. We use ZO Skin Health non-hydroquinone based regime for maintenance purpose after melasma is adequately controlled.
Tranexamic Acid based products-
Tranexamic acid (TXA) is a plasmin inhibitor used off-label in the treatment of melasma. Topical TXA is a safe treatment that has been shown to be better tolerated than topical HQ. We combine TXA based products with other treatments to control melasma.
Chemical peels are another treatment option for melasma. In this procedure, a chemical solution is applied to the skin, which causes the top layer of skin to peel off. The new skin that grows back is usually smoother and more evenly colored. LM SKINCENTRE has various kinds of chemical peels with different formulations that can be done at different depths, depending on the severity of the melasma.
Laser therapy
Laser therapy is a more invasive treatment option for melasma. In this procedure, a laser is used to target the melanin in the skin and destroy it. It is important to note that laser therapy can cause side effects such as redness, swelling, and scarring.
Types of lasers used
PicoSure is a laser that turns energy into pressure as opposed to heat. It works quickly to treat melasma below your skin at its source. The procedure itself is quick and only slightly uncomfortable. You may experience a stinging sensation similar to a rubber band snapping on skin.
Fractional laser
Fractional laser resurfacing, including Fraxel, C&B laser, makes microscopic holes in your skin that stimulate the growth of new and healthy skin cells. In some cases, it can be effective in improving melasma. Your skin looks red or discolored, and raw immediately after. But after 3 to 5 days of recovery, your skin will look brighter and more even.
Melanocytes express vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptors 1 and 2 and neuropilin. Thus, the VEGF and skin vascularization might play a role in the pigmentation processes and therefore in melasma. By targeting the vascular component in melasma lesions, the Vbeam laser may decrease the melanocyte stimulation and subsequently the relapses.
The Q-Switched 1064 laser, delivers energy into your skin that breaks melanin into smaller pieces, which are then are removed by your body. Q-Switched laser may also bleach your hair, and the process can cause a stinging sensation.
Oral treatment
Oral TXA has clearly demonstrated the efficacy for melasma in Asian skin, even in low doses (e.g., 500 mg daily) over short periods (8-12 weeks). It is also a safe therapeutic option, which is easy to administer with few and mild side effects. However, you may be asked to check for status of hypercoagulability status before starting treatment.
Prevention of Melasma
Preventing melasma is all about protecting your skin from the sun. This means wearing sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 every day, even on cloudy days. It also means wearing protective clothing, such as hats and long-sleeved shirts, and avoiding the sun during peak hours, which are usually between 10 am and 4 pm. If you are pregnant or taking birth control pills or hormone therapy, talk to your doctor about your risk of developing melasma and what you can do to prevent it.
Melasma is a common skin condition that can be caused by hormonal changes, sun exposure, and genetics. It is more common in women than men, and it is often associated with pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormone therapy. In our centre, we tailor-made treatments for melasma based on individual factors. Contact us if you want to know your options.