The skin naturally darkens, or tans, in response to sun exposure or other factors, due to the pigment, called melanin. Unwanted pigmentation however, like sun damage, age spots and hyperpigmentation, can age your skin.

   In women with melasma, a pigmentation disorder, also known as “pregnancy mask” the imbalance of melanin in certain areas of the face cause the dark patchy, blotches of pigmentation to form.  It is often seen on the cheeks, upper lip, forehead and chin; it is usually symmetrical on both sides of the face and is most common with patients of Hispanic and Asian decent. Rarely seen in men, melasma is estimated to affect 6-7 million women and is an entirely different beast.

    Although the exact cause is still unknown, melasma is thought to be caused by one for four main factors: hormones (pregnancy, birth control or hormone replacement therapy), inflammation from sun exposure, certain epileptic medications, or simply genetics. It is the result of melanocytes, or pigment-producing cells, creating excess melanin in either the dermal or epidermal layers of the skin. It only occurs on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun and can be exacerbavted by normal day-to-day sun exposure, like getting the mail, walking the dog, or driving to work.

   Melansma can be an acute or chronic condition. It can frustrating, but is treatable.  The first step is always PROTECTION by applying an  SPF 30 or greater – every day.  Antioxidants will also reduce inflammation and neutralize free-radicals that cause havoc in your skin. By reducing the inflammation in your skin, you will also lower the change of the pigmentation it triggers, so protecting your skin with a boost of daily antioxidants with anti-inflammatory benefits is vital.  Your skin specialist may also recommend wearing a wide-brimmed hat when you are outside, especially in the hot Texas summers.

   Healthy skin will always be beautiful skin. We recommend  always starting with recommended pharmaceutical-grade skincare products when treating any skin condition, including melasma.  For treating pigmentation concerns, look for skin brightening ingredients like norwegian kelp, arbutin & mushroom extract, plus exfoliation agents like glycolic, salicylic and lactic acids found in iS Clinical White Lightening Serum and While Lightening Complex. Your  topical products will condition your skin to be healthier and boost the results of any future treatments you decide to do, such as chemical peels, HydraFacialMD, dermabrasion, light or laser treatments.

   Need more information? Call us at 817-862-9900 or email our team at info@preservemedspa.com to schedule your Complimentary Consultation today!

Credits to: www.galdermausa.com/Our-Products/Skin-Conditions/Melasma.aspx and www.isclinical.com