Melasma
WHAT IS MELASMA?
Melasma is a skin condition characterized by brown or blue-gray patches or freckle-like spots.
WHAT IS MELASMA?
Melasma is a skin condition characterized by brown or blue-gray patches or freckle-like spots. It’s often called the “mask of pregnancy.” This problem happens because of the overproduction of the cells that make the color of your skin. It is common, harmless and some treatments may help. Melasma usually fades after a few months. It typically lightens over time, often getting worse in the summer and better in the winter. At Nouveau Medspa, we can provide you with IPL Photofacial and ICON laser treatments to help you overcome this issue.
WHAT DOES THIS ISSUE LOOK LIKE?
Melasma is a common skin disorder, loosely translated, the word means “black spot.” The brown or gray-brown patches characteristic of this issue appear most often on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin. In women, melasma often fades on its own after pregnancy or after an affected woman goes off birth control pills. If you have this skin issue you’re probably experiencing light brown, dark brown, and/or blue-gray patches on your skin. They can appear as flat patches or freckle-like spots.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF THIS CONDITION?
What causes melasma is not entirely clear. It likely occurs when the color-making cells in the skin (melanocytes) produce too much color. People with pigmented skin tones are more prone to melasma because they have more active melanocytes than people with less pigmentation. Radiation, whether ultraviolet, visible light, or infrared (heat) light, and hormones are believed to contribute to this condition. Ultraviolet and infrared radiation from the sun is key in making this issue worse. Other possible causes of this condition include:
- Medications
- Contraceptive therapy (birth control}
- Estrogen/Diethylstilbestrol
- Genetics
- LED Screens
- Pregnancy
- Hormones
- Makeup
- Tanning Beds
- Skincare products
HOW DO WE ADDRESS MELASMA?
This condition is stubborn but can fade on its own. This usually happens when a trigger, such as a pregnancy or birth control pills, causes the issue to occur. When a woman delivers her baby or stops taking birth control pills, melasma can fade on its own over time. However, some people struggle with this problem for years, or even a lifetime. If the melasma does not go away or a woman wants to keep taking birth control pills, melasma treatments are available. At Nouveau Medspa, we can provide you with effective laser treatment options to help minimize the signs of this condition. There are other treatment options for this condition, the following article discusses plasma and chemical peel options.
MELASMA TREATMENTS IN GIG HARBOR, WA
If you find your skin is starting to have slight discoloration, or you have questions regarding dark marks that are starting to appear, our team at Nouveau Medspa can help provide you with the information you are looking for. Each treatment at our center is delivered with the greatest care and attention to minimize discomfort and maximize results. To get started, schedule online or give us a call at (253) 358-3667.
*Individual results may vary and are not guaranteed