What Are the Best Ways To Treat Melasma?

What can you do to improve melasma? Dallas dermatologist Dr. Ellen Turner knows that treating this condition can often be challenging, since the factors that trigger it—such as sun exposure and hormones—are difficult to modify. But first, what is it?

Melasma is a common skin condition that typically manifests as dark patches or spots with irregular borders. Brown or blue-gray patches or freckle-like spots that are darker than the natural skin tone may form on the skin. Although melasma doesn’t cause physical harm and there aren’t any health risks associated with it, people who have this condition may have a poorer quality of life or experience psychological problems because of their uneven skin tone.

Dr. Turner says, “People who have melasma might feel self-conscious about the way they look—which shouldn’t be discounted. Melasma is caused by an overproduction of cells that give your skin its color. It’s sometimes referred to as the ‘mask of pregnancy’ since hormonal changes during pregnancy can trigger it. Some other common triggers include sun exposure, hormonal birth control pills, and products that irritate the skin such as scented soaps, products with fragrances, and retinoids.”

Want to treat melasma once and for all? Happily, there are various treatment methods available to reduce the discolorations if they bother you. Continue reading for some of the most effective strategies to manage and treat this condition. 

Sun Protection

One of the most effective ways to manage melasma is through diligent sun protection. Sun protection is an essential part of treating the condition. In fact, even if you’re using other topical or oral treatments, even a few minutes of unprotected sun exposure could undo your hard work. Ultraviolet (UV) rays stimulate melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, leading to increased pigmentation. To shield the skin, it's essential to use a broad-spectrum, mineral sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, even if you’re spending most of your time indoors. Look for a product that provides protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Additionally, wearing wide-brimmed hats and seeking shade when possible during peak sunlight hours can offer added defense against sun-induced melasma flare-ups.

Topical Treatments

Various topical treatments can be incorporated into a skincare routine to address melasma. Ingredients such as tranexamic acid, hydroquinone, kojic acid, alpha arbutin, and niacinamide are known for their skin-lightening properties. These compounds work by inhibiting the production of melanin and promoting a more even skin tone. However, it's crucial to use these products under the guidance of a dermatologist, as some ingredients may cause irritation or have side effects. Retinoids, which are derivatives of vitamin A, can also be beneficial in promoting cell turnover and reducing pigmentation. Products that stimulate skin cell turnover can be beneficial for melasma as the new cells gradually replace the pigmented cells. Include products containing vitamin C in your routine as this antioxidant lightens the dark areas, rejuvenates the skin, and has a brightening effect. 

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels, performed by dermatologists or licensed skincare professionals, involve the application of a chemical solution to exfoliate the outer layer of the skin. These skin resurfacing procedures act as exfoliates to remove damaged or discolored skin from the surface so that new, healthy skin can be revealed. This process can help reduce pigmentation and improve the overall texture of the skin. Glycolic acid, lactic acid, and salicylic acid are commonly used in chemical peels for melasma. 

Microneedling

Microneedling is a minimally invasive procedure that involves the use of a device with tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin by superficially puncturing it. This process stimulates collagen production and can help improve the appearance of melasma. Plus, when the skin heals, new and healthy skin is brought to the surface. You can also combine microneedling with a skin cell turnover-boosting serum, as the procedure helps the serum to be absorbed better by the skin. 

Laser and Light-based Devices

Various devices can be used for pigmentation but only under the guidance and supervision of a skilled dermatologist. Depending on the background skin type of the individual, lasers and light-based devices can actually worsen melasma so it is critical to only receive these treatments from a board-certified dermatologist, or who works under their supervision. The picosecond laser is an excellent example of a laser that has long-been used to treat pigmentation such as tattoos, but is now being successfully used for the treatment of melasma.

Would you like to learn more about the most effective ways to get rid of melasma? Contact Dallas’ Dermatology Office of Dr. Ellen Turner for more advice on improving this pigmentation disorder. Call (214) 373-7546 or submit a contact form to request a consultation.