Skin Conditions – Pigmentation/ Melasma

Melasma is a hyperpigmentary disorder of the skin characterized by blotchy dark patches on the face and forehead. It is triggered by both sun exposure and hormonal changes due to pregnancy, oral contraceptive use or perimenopause.

Melasma commonly affects women of darker skin types and tends to run in families, only 10% of cases are men. The treatment involves use of hydroquinone, retinoids, and other topical agents. Adjuvant therapy with IPL, Lasers, BBL, chemical peels and vitamin c iontopheresis may hasten the process. Under a dermatologist’s care, many people with melasma have a good outcome. Melasma can be stubborn, though. It may take a few months of treatment to see improvement. It is important to follow your dermatologist’s advice.