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Melasma: What is It, How Do I Treat it Effectively and Safely?
Have you developed dark patches on your face and aren’t sure why? Are you disappointed with over-the-counter treatments that are not cutting it and you’re desperate to get rid of them? This type of advanced pigment (hyperpigmentation) is known as a skin condition called Melasma (chloasma), or most recently known as the “mask of pregnancy”. You aren’t alone. Melasma is present in 15% to 50% of pregnant patients. The prevalence varies depending on the population but up to 33% will be diagnosed with melasma at some point.
Many of our clients at Beautique Medical Spa voiced their concerns with the same skin issue which means if you have advanced pigment, you are not alone. Unfortunately, it’s a very common problem that affects mostly women because of changes in hormones, exposure to sunlight (UV), and skincare products that can irritate the skin. It’s also most commonly found in the Latino demographic and we had so many clients suffering from this condition and worse treating it with products, peels, and laser/light treatments that were making this condition worse, Dr. Sanchez invested in the Stellar M-22 platform that has an option to treat this condition using a Q-Switched ND:YAG. Q-switched lasers produce extremely short bursts of high-intensity energy. The energy from the laser is absorbed by the melanin in spots or hair follicles, causing it to break down while surrounding skin is left unharmed.
But, what are these dark spots on the skin, what causes them, and what can you do to fix and avoid melasma? Dr. Manuel J. Sanchez and his team of skincare experts have developed their own proprietary protocols covering the pyramid of treatments in order to find melasma treatments that work. Through Q-switch Laser Technology, LED Light Therapy, and Microdermabrasion, the skin professionals at Beautique Medical Spa can be your ultimate guides to erasing advanced pigment on your face and body.
What is Melasma?
Melasma is characterized as a hyperpigmentation disorder of the skin in which brown or gray-brown patches of melasma appear most often on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin. It occurs because of the overproduction of the cells that make the color of your skin. A common condition that can be treated and resolved over time.
What Causes Melasma?
Melasma is predominantly caused by sun exposure and a change in hormones. Other possible causes may include anti-seizure medications, birth control, hypothyroidism, tanning beds, and cosmetics.
Who is Most Prevalent to Melasma?
Melasma is particularly common in women due to hormone imbalance. Pregnant women are more likely to get melasma than anyone else.
Now Let’s Dig Into the Best Melasma Treatments and Why Beautique Medical Spa Is the Valley’s Choice to Reverse Advanced Pigment
YES, there are solutions on how to treat the unwanted hyperpigmentation of melasma. Following our pyramid proprietary protocols:
Addons that also target discoloration of the skin
** Microdermabrasion & Microneedling
Sun Protection (SPF)
While sun protection may not treat melasma, it most certainly will help prevent discoloration of the skin. This is the most basic and essential part of any treatment regimen for beautifully radiant skin as long-term maintenance.
Topical Products
The dark spots on the skin mean you are in need of skin lightening creams also known as pigment inhibiting products. Topical creams contain certain ingredients such as hydroquinone, kojic acid, ascorbic acid, retinoid, and azelaic acid.
However, sometimes these products cannot solely reverse melasma effects, or may not be well tolerated by certain types of skin which is why we offer products such as Lyterra 2.0 and Cyspera. Two products that are safe for all skin types, can be used with lasers and can be used long term without any harmful effects. Although products can be used alone for results when coupled with other treatments like chemical peels and lasers the results are usually much more effective.
Chemical Peels
A chemical peel is used to improve and smooth the texture of the skin. It is intended to remove the outermost layer of the skin, removing dead cells and uneven tones. A very effective treatment in reducing the appearance of pigment in the skin from melasma, sun damage, and acne to name a few. We use the VI Peel Precision to treat advanced pigment as part of our protocols when it is the best option for the client. Learn more about the many benefits and options we offer.
Laser & Light Treatment
McAllen’s Beautique Medical Spa prides itself in providing the very best in laser technology. Some clients wish to speed up the process of their unwanted skin discoloration and our lasers can get them there.
-Q-switch Laser
All of these non-invasive treatments utilize rejuvenating wavelengths of light or produce high-intensity laser beams with very short pulse durations to initiate cellular repair while you relax.
However, it is always best to first schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our skincare experts to determine which laser and light would work best with treating your melasma. Please click here or give us a call/text at (956) 664- 1234.
Microdermabrasion
This minimally abrasive instrument gently sands your skin and is used to treat light scarring, discoloration, sun damage, and stretch marks. By treating the texture of the skin with this type of exfoliation, we find that lasers and products penetrate much deeper and more effectively which helps provide better results. Learn more on the many benefits of microdermabrasion.
Microneedling
This minimally abrasive instrument inserts tiny needles into the skin for rejuvenation and collagen production. It helps reduce the appearance of acne scars, stretch marks, fine lines, melasma, and improves the effectiveness of topical products. This treatment pairs great with topical products used to treat your skin discoloration for maximum results. Learn more on the many benefits of microneedling.
SKIN – VEST – MENT
While we know that treating melasma can be quite difficult, with our pyramid of proprietary protocols we have helped many Rio Grande Valley residents improve their melasma, and over time following our skin experts’ customized regime leads to healthier skin.
Here are first-hand results of results we know you want to see!
If you or someone you know has been looking for a solution to advanced pigment please call us at 956-664-1234 to schedule a consultation or drop your questions below, because beautiful skin starts with a conversation.
