Melasma causes and new treatments

What is Melasma?

Melasma or Chloasma is a tan or dark discolouration of the facial skin. It can affect anyone but is particularly common in women, especially pregnant women and those taking oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy medications. It is generally a result of hormonal changes, the ageing process and sun exposure. It is commonly seen in Asian skin types. These dark patches appear symmetrically on the cheeks and around the eyes.

How it’s caused?

Our skin contains a black pigment called melanin and when produced in excess in some individuals, either by exposure to the sun or as a result of other factors, it forms a concentrated deposit which results in darker patches on the skin.

Treatment

Before melasma treatment

Melasma after Spectra Peel treatment

Laser toning is a unique treatment for melasma as it uses laser energy to reduce visible pigmentation. At the same time, it has additional benefits in terms of improved skin tone and texture with minimal risk of adverse effects and virtually no downtime.

In the past conventional laser toning has been used with reasonable success but only for Fitzpatrick skin types I through to III, unfortunately, it is inappropriate for skin type IV or higher (most Asian and darker skin individuals). The new True Skin Lutronic spectra laser uses the Q-switch mode with their ultra-short pulse and reliable top-hat beam profile which enables safe and efficacious treatment of dermal and epidermal Melasma in patients of all skin types.

Treatments will require about 10 sessions and subsequent sessions are recommended for maintenance and prevention of recurrence. Another benefit is that it is virtually pain-free and there is no downtime after the treatment.

Using the right skincare and avoiding excessive sun exposure and applying good sunscreen will help the effectiveness of the treatment. Please call for a complimentary skin consultation 0415 620 008