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What is Melasma?
Melasma is a skin condition that causes dark patches or spots on the face in areas like the cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin. However, it can also occur on the body in areas like the arms, neck, and back – these being areas most likely to be exposed to sunlight. It occurs most commonly in women with darker skin tones, although women of any skin tone can get it. Very few men get melasma, although it is possible. Melasma is not painful, cancerous, or contagious, although it can be damaging to your self-confidence.
What Causes Melasma?
Melanocytes are the cells in your skin that produce melanin, or the pigment that gives your skin its color. With melasma, the melanocytes produce more melanin than usual in certain areas because of UV exposure from the sun.
Melasma is also called the “mask of pregnancy” because it occurs more commonly in pregnant women. This is typically attributed to hormone levels and is temporary – it usually fades after pregnancy. Melasma can also be genetic or caused by certain types of medications (including birth control). Some other causes can include skincare products, tanning, or underlying medical conditions.
What are My Treatment Options for Melasma?
Melasma can be easily treated with the help of a skincare professional. The team at Grace and Grey will determine your goals and underlying causes before creating a personalized treatment package for your goals.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels use active ingredients to deeply exfoliate the skin. Certain types of chemical peels are well suited for melasma because they can remove pigmented cells and reveal healthy new skin underneath. It can also stimulate the production of collagen which can help even out skin tone and improve hydration.
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)
IPL is a light energy treatment that can target melanin with specific wavelengths. When the light energy is absorbed into the melanin, it generates heat and damages the cells. The pigment is then removed from the body, leaving behind clear skin.
Professional Skincare Products
A variety of professional-grade skincare products can be effective for melasma by combatting pigmentation. Our team can help you develop an at-home skincare regimen to help support your treatment results and help further even out your skin tone.
How Can I Maintain My Results from Melasma Treatment?
The best way to maintain your results is by wearing SPF 30+ sunscreen daily. This can help prevent photodamage – you should also avoid tanning. It can also be helpful to understand any underlying triggers so you can avoid them. Our team can help you manage melasma if it’s a long-term condition with regular treatments. You’ll receive a detailed schedule from our team so you understand when to return.
ABOUT US
At Grace and Grey Spa, we combine state-of-the-art medical procedures with scientifically proven skincare products and treatments so all of our patients look & feel their very best.
