What Is Melasma and What Causes It?
Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by dark, patchy discoloration—most often on the face—caused by excess melanin production. It’s frequently triggered by sun exposure, hormonal changes (such as pregnancy or birth control use), and genetic factors, and while it’s especially common during pregnancy, it can affect anyone, including men and non-pregnant women.
Who Is Most At Risk For Melasma?
Melasma most commonly affects women, especially during pregnancy, but it can also occur in men. People with medium to darker skin tones and a family history or melasma are at higher risk.
How Can I Treat My Melasma?
Light-based treatments, such as IPL, can be highly effective for reducing the appearance of melasma. It’s essential to choose a treatment provider experienced with this condition—whether a dermatologist, plastic surgeon, or medical aesthetician. Incorrect treatment can sometimes worsen melasma. For the best results, we recommend combining IPL with diligent sun protection and topical therapies.
Light-based treatments like lasers and IPL (intense pulsed light) while very effective for treating melasma, can worsen melasma if not performed correctly and carefully. It is crucial to work with an experienced and qualified technician who understands melasma to ensure safe and effective results. While these treatments target pigmentation, overly aggressive treatment can cause inflammation and stimulate excess melanin production, potentially exacerbating the condition. Gentle is the key.
Is SPF and Sun Protection Helpful for Melasma?
Sunlight is a major trigger for melasma. UV exposure can worsen pigmentation and counteract treatment benefits.
Top Sun-Safe Practices
-
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) daily and reapply regularly.
-
Wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.
-
Avoid direct sunlight, especially after treatments.
Consistent sun protection is critical to prevent melasma from worsening and to maintain treatment results.
What Are Effective Topicals for Treating Melasma?
Topical treatments play a key role in melasma management. At Glow Luxe, we recommend ingredients backed by science for their ability to lighten dark spots and even skin tone:
-
Azelaic Acid: Inhibits melanin production and is gentle on sensitive skin.
-
Kojic Acid: Reduces pigmentation, often used in combination with other agents.
-
Tranexamic Acid: Blocks melanin production; effective in topical formulations.
Consistency is key. Visible improvement may take weeks or months, so stick to your regimen for the best results.
Is There A Cure For Melasma?
Melasma has no definitive cure, it's a chronic skin condition that requires consistent management to keep it under control. The good news is we can help.
-
Set Realistic Goals: Complete elimination may not be possible, but significant improvement is achievable.
-
Consult Professionals: Get a personalized treatment plan tailored to your skin type and severity of melasma. Ensure the treatment provider is experienced treating this condition. Remember, this isn't a condition that responds well to an aggressive approach.
-
Adopt Sun Protection as a Habit: Even after improvement, daily UV protection is crucial.
At Glow Luxe, we understand that pigmentation concerns, including melasma, require specialized care for safe and lasting results. Would you like to find out more? We offer complimentary consultations. Call 250.590.5459 today!