What is Melasma?
Melasma is a common skin condition in which light to dark brown or greyish pigmentation develops, mainly on the face. It can occur in anyone – male or female, of any origin. However, it is more common in women with darker skin-types. Melasma usually becomes more noticeable in the summer and improves during the winter months. It is not an infection, it is not contagious and it is not due to an allergy. Also, it is not cancerous and will not change into skin cancer.
What causes Melasma?
The exact cause is not known, but several factors contribute. These include pregnancy, hormonal drugs such as the contraceptive pill or HRT, and very occasionally medical conditions affecting hormone levels.
Some cosmetics, especially those containing perfume, are thought to bring on melasma in some people.
There is research to suggest that it can be triggered by stress. Sunshine and the use of sun-beds usually worsen any tendency to melasma. Visible light may also be a trigger.
What does melasma look like?
Melasma is simply darker-than-normal skin affecting the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, nose and chin, usually in a symmetrical fashion. It may be limited to the cheeks and nose or just occur over the jaw.
Melasma is usually diagnosed by a doctor on the appearance but in certain instances a skin biopsy may be recommended.
Is Melasma hereditary?
Yes Melasma can run in families
Can Melasma be cured?
No, at present there is no cure for melasma, but there are several treatment options which may temporarily improve the appearance.
Superficial pigmentation is easier to treat than deep pigmentation.
If melasma occurs during pregnancy, it may resolve on its own within a few months after delivery and treatment may not be necessary.
Why is sun protection so important?
Skin affected by melasma darkens more than the surrounding skin with exposure to sunlight, so sun avoidance and sun protection are important. Broad-spectrum fragrance-free sunscreens, with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50 and a high ultraviolet A (UVA) star rating, should be applied daily throughout the year, and broad-brimmed hats are recommended. In particular, avoidance and protection measures should be employed during the period of most intense sunshine (between 11.00 am and 3.00 pm). Sunbeds should not be used.
Can Melasma be treated?
While there is no permanent cure, about 60-70% of patients with melasma may find one or more treatments helps to temporarily improve the appearance of melasma. There is no guarantee with any one treatment, and often the condition may relapse and require repeat or combination treatment.
Which treatments do you offer?
Following a consultation with a dermatologist, one or more of the following treatments may be offered to you.
Before embarking on treatment, it is important to appreciate that no treatment for melasma is guaranteed to produce improvement, and the condition inevitably recurs so multiple treatments in rotation over time are often required. Occasionally treatment can even flare melasma.
Treatments for melasma offered at Midland Skin include:
- Medical grade/prescription-only skin lightening treatments such as Obagi Nuderm (Price range from £475-£650) and Cyspera Intensive System (Price range from £270).
- Oral medical treatment on prescription – price range from £30-£40
- Laser toning – A pigment laser treatment is given every 2 to 3 weeks. 8 sessions are £2400
- Sciton Halo laser treatment (price £1850 for 2 or 3 treatments depending on area)
How do I start treatment for melasma?
If you would like to discuss melasma treatment with a specialist, then please enquire with the office for a dermatology consultation. Treatments are only offered after a consultation with a Dermatologist.
