Are you one of the many people wondering why darkened patches of skin on your face showed up out of the blue? Melasma is a facial skin condition that’s characterized by brown or blue-gray patches or freckle-like spots that appear on the forehead, cheeks, chin, upper lip and/or nose. It is more common in females and sometimes referred to as the “mask of pregnancy” because it can be triggered by hormones during pregnancy. Sunlight exposure plays a major role in triggering the appearance of melasma, along with birth control pills, HCG diets and hormone replacement.
While there is no permanent cure, there are treatments available at Triangle Facial Plastic Surgery that can help improve the appearance of melasma or clear it up (temporarily). Hydroquinone, a topical treatment in the form of a cream, gel, lotion or liquid that lightens the skin, is commonly recommended as a first step for treating this pesky skin condition. In addition, combination therapies, including BBL Hero, CoolPeel CO2 laser skin resurfacing and Halo laser treatments may be recommended for improved results. Individual results may vary.
Our expert team at Triangle Facial Plastic Surgery is here to share what we refer to as the 5 Commandments of Melasma, to help improve the appearance of your melasma and prolong your treatment results. Individual results may vary.
- NEVER get in the sun without sunscreen of at least SPF 40 or more! Not even for ONE minute! Even if you’re just jumping in the car for a ride or sitting in the windows of a building structure. This includes your arms and legs, as sun exposure on other parts of the body can trigger melasma.
- Avoid direct sunlight ALWAYS! Wear protective clothing, including a hat and sunglasses.
- If you are undergoing (or considering undergoing) hormone replacement therapy (including taking birth control pills), you MUST make the choice between hormone replacement and treating your melasma. Melasma will not go away if you are taking hormones.
- Prescription products, such as hydroquinone, Tretinoin, adapalene and tazarotene can be added to help at night.
- You can always use non-prescription skincare products that we carry in our skincare lines (including ZO SKINHEALTH and iS CLINICAL) that contain ingredients with VitaminC, kojic acid, arbutin and glycolic acids to help to lighten brown pigment and maintain healthy skin.
If you are looking to improve the appearance of melasma in the Raleigh area, contact us to schedule your complimentary consultation with Yelena and she will provide you with a full facial assessment and discuss the best treatment options for you.
