When to See a Doctor for Your Melasma

Melasma, commonly known as “the mask of pregnancy,” is a skin condition characterized by dark, discolored patches on the face. Although it’s not harmful, it can be a source of emotional distress due to its impact on appearance. At Aesthetic World Clinic Pune, we offer a range of effective treatments to help you manage and reduce melasma. This blog will explore the types, causes, risk factors, and the best in-clinic treatments available for melasma.

What is Melasma?

It is a form of hyperpigmentation where patches of skin become darker than the surrounding areas. This condition typically appears on the face, particularly on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip, but it can also occur on other sun-exposed areas such as the neck and forearms. The dark patches are often symmetrical and can vary in color from light brown to deep blue-gray.

Types of Melasma

It is categorized into three main types based on the depth of pigment in the skin:

1. Epidermal Melasma:

• This type affects the outermost layer of the skin (epidermis).
• The patches are usually brown with well-defined borders.
• It responds well to treatment.

1. Dermal Melasma:

• This type affects the deeper layer of the skin (dermis).
• The patches are often blue-gray and have less defined borders.
• It is more challenging to treat and may be more resistant to traditional treatments.

1. Mixed Melasma:

• This is the most common type, involving both the epidermis and dermis.
• The patches show a combination of brown and blue-gray areas.
• It can improve with a combination of treatments.

Causes of Melasma

It is primarily triggered by a combination of factors:

1. Sun Exposure:

• Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun stimulate melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin, leading to an overproduction of melanin.

1. Hormonal Changes:

• Pregnancy is a common trigger due to increased estrogen levels, which can lead to melasma. This is why it’s often referred to as “the mask of pregnancy.”
• Birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy can also contribute .

1. Genetic Predisposition:

• If melasma runs in your family, you may be more likely to develop the condition.

1. Skincare Products:

• Certain skincare products that irritate the skin can trigger melasma, especially if the skin is exposed to sunlight.

1. Stress:

• Stress can exacerbate melasma by triggering hormonal changes.

Who is Most Affected ?

It affects women more than men, with up to 90% of cases occurring in women. It is particularly common in women with darker skin types (Fitzpatrick skin types III to VI), including those of Latin, Asian, African, or Middle Eastern descent. Although it can appear at any age, It is most common in women between the ages of 20 and 40, especially during reproductive years when hormonal changes are frequent.

In-Clinic Treatment Options

At Aesthetic World Clinic Pune, we offer a variety of advanced treatments to address melasma. Our approach is tailored to your specific skin type and the severity of your condition.

1. Chemical Peels:

• Chemical peels involve the application of a solution that exfoliates the outer layer of skin, promoting the growth of new, evenly pigmented skin.
• We offer superficial peels, such as glycolic acid or salicylic acid peels, that are safe and effective for treating epidermal melasma.

1. Laser Therapy:

• Lasers, such as Q-switched Nd:YAG lasers, target the pigment in the skin, breaking it down so it can be naturally eliminated by the body.
• Laser therapy is particularly effective for dermal and mixed melasma but requires multiple sessions for optimal results.

1. Microneedling with PRP:

• This treatment involves using tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, which stimulates collagen production and promotes the absorption of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP). The PRP contains growth factors that can help reduce pigmentation and improve skin texture.

1. Topical Treatments:

• We offer medical-grade topical treatments containing hydroquinone, tretinoin, corticosteroids, and other ingredients that help lighten the skin and reduce the appearance of melasma.
• Combination creams, are particularly effective for stubborn melasma.

1. Mesotherapy:

• Mesotherapy involves the injection of a customized blend of vitamins, enzymes, and other active ingredients directly into the skin. This can help reduce pigmentation and improve overall skin tone.

1. Sun Protection:

• Sunscreen is a crucial part of any melasma treatment plan. We recommend using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect the skin from further UV damage.

It is a common skin condition that can be challenging to manage, but with the right treatment plan, its appearance can be significantly reduced. At Aesthetic World Clinic Pune, our experienced team is here to guide you through the best treatment options tailored to your skin type and condition.

schedule a consultation with us today to start your journey to clearer, more radiant skin.

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For more information or to book an appointment, contact Aesthetic World Clinic Pune at +918530120101

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