One of the most frustrating skin conditions that I have helped my clients treat is melasma. Melasma is stubborn and takes a consistent treatment plan to reduce and end. But, there are things that you can do! If you are anything like my clients, you are willing to do whatever it takes to get rid of your melasma. Here are 4 things you should know about melasma and my top recommendations for treating it.

What is Melasma?

Melasma is a hypermelanotic skin disorder that occurs in women and on the face. You can identify melasma by seeing dark hyper-pigmented spots or blotches on the skin. The pigmentation often occurs on the cheeks, upper lip, nose, forehead and/or around the eyes.

Melasma Triggers

Hormones

It is common for women on birth control to experience melasma. A necessary component to treatment may be discontinuing or changing birth control. Other medications link to melasma as well.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy is the most common trigger for melasma. This is why pregnant women should wait until after pregnancy to treat their melasma. Melasma from pregnancy may go away on its own after delivery.

Skincare

Many skincare treatments irritate melasma. It is best to stay away from irritating ingredients such as fragrance if you have melasma.

Sun exposure

The trigger you want to be most aware of is UV radiation. Sun exposure exacerbates melasma making it more visible. The heat can worsen melasma. This means it is more visible in the sunnier and warmer months during the summer.

Sun Protection is a Must

Sun exposure worsens melasma. It is crucial to wear an SPF of at least 30 on a daily basis, even if you are not spending time outdoors.

There is no way to cure melasma. But to treat or reduce it you must be diligent in protecting your skin from the sun. Your best bet is to stay out of the sun as much as possible. Bringing hats or an umbrella with you when outdoors is a great way to protect your skin. Although melasma is harmless, skin cancer is not. Sun protection is a necessity in preventing both.

Skincare for Treating Melasma

Melasma is very stubborn. The treatment or products you use to treat it requires patient consistency in using them.

Active Skincare

It is a good idea to save the more active products for fall and winter months when you are staying out of the sun. Active ingredients make your skin more susceptible to darkening hyperpigmentation. Some at home skincare ingredients help reduce the appearance of melasma. These ingredients include...

• Vitamin C (l-ascorbic acid or MAP)

• Licorice root

• Azelaic acid

• Glycolic acid

• Kojic acid

• Retinoid

• Niacinamide

• Arbutin

A potential regimen could be...

• Using an effective Vitamin C serum in the morning with an SPF

• Niacinamide and/or arbutin serum in the evening

• Alternating with an AHA acid toner and a retinoid serum in the evening

A Pomp Beauty Esthetician can help recommend such products for your regimen.

Professional Treatment

The other alternative you have is to consult with a Dermatologist. The most common treatment used for melasma in dermatology is the triple combination. This usually includes Hydroquinone (HQ), retinoic acid and corticosteroids.

Although effective, HQ is not best for long term treatment of melasma. It damages the skin’s melanocytes. Other ingredients for treating melasma are under study and will be available in time.

Professional treatments performed a medical esthetician or dermatologist are effective. Procedures such as...

• Chemical peels

• Regular micro-needling sessions

• Some laser treatments

There are also some treatments that can make melasma worse. Avoid treatments such as...

• Intense Pulse Light (IPL)

Consult a board certified esthetician or dermatologist about your melasma.