Understanding Pigmentation: Melasma

Melasma presents as large patches of pigmentation generally appearing on the forehead, cheek, upper lip and chin. These patches are generally symmetrical. This type of pigmentation is caused by fluctuation in hormone levels and may be triggered by pregnancy, the contraceptive pill and other hormonal therapies.

Paige Starkey, RN at The Clinic, takes us through Melasma, what it looks like and how to treat it.

Why Is Melasma So Difficult To Treat?

Melasma is notoriously difficult to treat. This is because it can be aggravated by UV exposure, inflammation, and heat. This form of pigmentation also involves the deeper layers of the skin, which are at a higher risk of rebound pigmentation, if not treated correctly.

Rest assured, the medically trained team at The Clinic is very experienced in treating Melasma and will undergo a through consultation before providing a customised treatment plan that's right for you.

The Best Skin Treatments for Melasma

The PCA Perfecting Peel

The only peel to contain 20% Mandelic Acid, the PCA Skin Perfecting Peel is a gentle yet effective Level 2 Face Peel to resurface the skin, resulting in a smoother texture and more even skin tone. Mandelic Acid is an AHA that has both properties of AHA’s and BHA’s. Clinical studies have shown it is effective in treating acne, hyper-pigmentation including melasma.

Skinpen

SkinPen is a medical micro-needling device. Micro-needling is a form of collagen induction therapy, using tiny needles to stimulate the body’s natural wound healing response. In this response, new tissue and skin cells are formed, producing significant improvements to the tone and texture of the skin.

Deep Sea Rejuvenation Peel

The Deep Sea Peel by Cosmedix is a unique, acid-free Level 3 Face Peel which attains dramatic rejuvenating results through the physical penetration of marine-based ingredients deep within the epidermis. This initiates a complex array of biological responses resulting in cellular renewal and regeneration.

Preventing Melasma

Before using these treatments to treat Melasma, it is essential to firstly introduce a pigment inhibitor product into your routine. Pigment inhibitors reduce and regulates the production of Melanin, by inhibiting Tyrosinase, which is an enzyme responsible for Melanin production.

Due to Melasma being a result of hormonal fluctuations, prevention is not always achievable. However, managing exacerbation of this type of pigmentation is paramount. As with every type of pigmentation, our number one form of defense is always incorporating an SPF into your daily routine.

For more information and to start your skin care journey, contact The Clinic today.