David J. Goldberg, MD
Cosmetic and Medical DermatologyWhat causes melasma and how can I prevent it?
common.months_ago
Melasma is a female skin condition characterized by excess pigmentation on areas like the upper lip, cheeks, and forehead. It is linked to estrogen, exacerbated by sun exposure, and more common in darker skin tones. This condition can be challenging to treat, and certain methods, such as intense pulsed light, may worsen it. Effective treatment involves a multi-faceted approach. Pigment-specific lasers, such as picosecond or nanosecond lasers, are used to reduce pigmentation. Additionally, inflammation suppression is crucial, often achieved with a red low-level light device. Topical lightening agents, particularly those containing cysteamine like Suspara, are also applied. Combining these modalities consistently over time can lead to significant improvements in melasma.
Melasma: A condition that causes patches of darker skin (hyperpigmentation), commonly on the face.
Estrogen: A hormone that can influence melasma, contributing to its occurrence in women.
Sun exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun that can trigger or worsen melasma.
Sunscreens: Topical products that protect skin from UV light; important to prevent melasma from worsening.
Intense pulse lights: A broad-spectrum light treatment that, in melasma, can sometimes make pigmentation worse.
Pigment-specific laser: A laser designed to target and break down excess pigment in the skin.
Picosecond lasers: Lasers that deliver energy in trillionths of a second to target pigment with minimal heat.
Nanosecond lasers: Lasers that deliver energy in billionths of a second to break up pigment.
Inflammation: Skin irritation or immune activity that can worsen melasma if not controlled.
Red low-level light device: A non-heat light therapy used to reduce inflammation and support treatment.
Topical lightening agents: At-home creams or gels that help fade dark spots; used alongside in-office treatments.
Cysteamine: A skin-lightening ingredient found in some topical products used for melasma.
Suspara: A brand name mentioned for a cysteamine-containing skin lightening product.
Centei: A brand mentioned as having a cysteamine product option.