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Melasma is also known as “pregnancy mask”. However, it can affect men and women who aren’t pregnant. It is a common skin condition of adult women, in which brown or greyish patches of pigmentation (color) develop, usually on the face.
Melasma, like other pigmentation problems, is complex and can be difficult to treat. It is caused by imbalances and disorders of the skin, producing more or less color, and can result in blotches.
Melasma can be challenging to get rid of and can be a chronic condition, coming back after treatment, unless it is treated holistically.
Melasma can be superficial (easy to treat), deep and mixed (difficult to treat).
It is complex and can involve more than one triggering factor. This contributes to the difficulty in treating the condition.
– Sun exposure, even if it is cloudy or during winter. Sun damage is the most important avoidable risk factor. Unfortunately, normal sun cream does not work for everyone.
– Blue light emitted from light bulbs, computer screens, and other electronic devices. This is commonly missed as a cause and will need special sun cream to help.
– Pregnancy. In these cases, the pigment often fades a few months after delivery
– Hormone treatments including oral contraceptive pills containing estrogen and progesterone, hormone replacement, intrauterine devices, and implants. These are a factor in about a quarter of affected women
– Certain skincare products such as scented or deodorant soaps, toiletries, and cosmetics. These may cause melasma that persists long term.
– Cosmetic treatment such as peels, laser treatments, etc
– Vascular problems, redness, dry skin, irritation and inflammation of the skin can later lead to pigmentation
– Heat
– Friction and irritation
– Genetic factors
– Skin and medical problems
– Understanding the cause or causes
– Applying special sun cream year-round and sometimes indoors
Treatment:
General measures
To the developer, we need a link to the camouflage page.
Topical treatment
The aim is to prevent new pigmentation and lighten the old pigmentation.
Tablets for melasma
Tranexamic acid tablets at a low dose can help. But, the patient should be carefully selected and at a low risk of thromboembolic disease (developing clots in the blood vessels). Please see your GP before considering it.
Devices and machines
Melasma can be treated, but it needs a combination treatment of the above to suit your individual need. Also, results may take time
When ready, please call Alternatives Clinic on 01908 526524 and book your appointment
Consultation with one of our expert team is free for topical treatments.
Consultation with Dr. Zeina is £120 for the consultation and a treatment plan.