Are you tired of dealing with dark patches? You need to try the top dermatologist recommended melasma treatments. Melasma is a common skin issue but that doesn’t mean that you must accept it. This can be a frustrating condition to deal with, especially when it occurs on the face. These dark, brown patches of skin impact many people, women. Fortunately, there are several effective, safe treatments for melasma.
What is Melasma?
Melasma is a common condition that causes grayish-brown or brown patches on the face. It’s more common in darker skin tones. While it can go away on its own, this isn’t always the case. It can last years, or even for a lifetime. Below are some of the top dermatologist recommended melasma treatments.
Sun Protection
An essential part of treating melasma is protecting your skin from sun exposure. Even if your melasma treatments are effective, a few minutes of sun exposure can undo all of that. For the best results, we recommend a layered approach to sun protection. This includes:
- Mineral based sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Titanium and zinc oxide in mineral based sunscreens block harmful UV rays.
- Wear protective hats and clothing when possible.
- Stay out of the sun, especially during peak exposure hours.
Hydroquinone
This is a chemical bleaching agent. It has been in use for decades but is gaining popularity lately for treating melasma and hyperpigmentation. Hydroquinone blocks an enzyme called tyrosinase. This stops your skin from producing pigment which decreases hyperpigmentation and melasma. It is only available with a prescription, so speak to your dermatologist about this treatment.
Tretinoin + Corticosteroid
This combination treatment involves taking tretinoin and a mild topical corticosteroid. Tretinoin is a retinoid medication derived from vitamin A. Corticosteroids reduce inflammation and improve cell turnover.
Tretinoin promotes the loss of pigment by increasing the turnover of skin cells and turning off melanin production. This short-term combination of treatments can be highly effective.
Triple Combination Cream
Sometimes, several different bleaching agents are used together in a single prescription cream. Typically, this includes hydroquinone, kojic acid, and tranexamic acid. Combining them maximizes the effects while also using a lower concentration of hydroquinone, which reduces the risk of skin irritation.
Cosmetic Treatments for Melasma
Chemical Peels. These skin resurfacing treatments reduce pigmentation, sun damage, wrinkles, fine lines, and acne scars.
Microneedling. This is a minimally invasive option for treating melasma. It promotes collagen production and helps reveal new, healthy skin.
Platelet-Rich Plasma. PRP is a natural rejuvenation agent sourced from your own blood. It can effectively reduce melasma and pigmentation issues. It is even more effective when combined with microneedling treatment.
Top Dermatologist Recommended Treatments for Melasma
If you are struggling with dark patches on your face, stop hiding them under makeup and get rid of them instead. To learn more about the treatment options for melasma, please contact your local dermatologist.