People around you see them as irregular patches of brown pigment on the cheeks, upper lip, forehead, chin or nose. You see them as embarrassing confidence-killers, especially if others are mistaking the blotches for something worse such as dirt or hair! But don’t worry, you are not alone. Hormonal pigmentation (or melasma) affects a great number of people, especially women in their younger years.
What is hormonal pigmentation?
Hormonal pigmentation or melasma is most common in women and affects more than 40 million people worldwide. It appears as irregular patches of brown skin on the forehead, cheeks, upper lip, chin and nose and is more commonly seen in people with darker complexions. It is not dangerous but can be unsightly and embarrassing for those who suffer with it.
What causes melasma?
What is the treatment for melasma?
Sun protection is the most important part of treatment since the pigment will continue to darken with exposure. Traditional methods used to remove melasma include chemical or acid peels, dermabrasion, bleaches, pulsed light and traditional laser treatments. Many of these can result in significant downtime with transient and lacklustre results and have risks of adverse complications.
At Laser Skin Care we have the latest in Fraxel Dual technology offering revolutionary, non-invasive melasma laser treatment.
Why is Fraxel Treatment more advantageous over other laser treatments for pigmentation?
- It improves all types of melasma pigmentation.
- It can be used on all skin types, including darker complexions, but at lower settings and multiple treatments may be required.
- Lightening of the pigment can be seen within a few weeks.
- It improves texture and radiance of he skin.
- It also improves sun damage, brown spots and wrinkles.
Other Treatments
An alternative to Fraxel laser is a prescribed Pigment Fading Gel (PFG). Also known as Kligman’sFormula, this is a powerful combination of Kojic Acid, Hydroquinone and Retinol.
PFG cannot be used while pregnant or breast-feeding, and long-term use is not recommended.
Care must be taken before any treatment for melasma because, if treated inappropriately, the pigmentation problems can actually worsen. At Laser Skin Care all treatments are done by ourCosmetic Doctors who are experienced in treating a range of skin colours and conditions. To find out more, come in for a free consultation with one of skin consultants.
Pigment Fading Preparations
Sunlight Avoidance
UV light exposure is very important in prevention and improvement of hormonal pigmentation. Good SPF 30 sunblock and Vitamin C serums can assist. UV tinting in the car is important.
Please note that melasma treatment with laser does not necessarily prevent recurrence. Some form of ongoing treatment is usually needed.
