Melasma Treatment Options
At AboutSkin Dermatology and Aesthetics, Dr. Cohen and his team offer several advanced treatment options to help you manage melasma effectively. Based on the severity of your condition, a personalized treatment plan will be created to target the pigmented areas and promote a more even complexion. Here’s a look at some of the available treatments:
Topical Skincare Products
For milder cases of melasma or as a complementary treatment to other procedures, topical skincare products can be very effective. Dr. Cohen may recommend a personalized skincare regimen that includes ingredients such as:
- Hydroquinone: This skin-lightening agent works by inhibiting the production of melanin.
- Vitamin C: Known for its brightening abilities, vitamin C can help reduce dark spots and even out your skin tone.
- Retinol: This form of vitamin A promotes cell turnover, helping to shed pigmented cells and encourage new skin growth.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are highly popular treatments for melasma. The process involves applying a chemical solution to the skin that removes the outer layers and promotes new skin growth. By exfoliating the skin, chemical peels help to reduce the appearance of pigmentation and create a smoother, more even skin tone.
Microdermabrasion With Dermal-Infusions
Microdermabrasion is a gentle exfoliation technique that uses a bristle or diamond tip to remove the outer layer of dead skin cells. This treatment encourages cell turnover, allowing new skin to form and gradually diminishing the appearance of dark patches.
Our dermal-infusion microdermabrasion combines the exfoliating effects of microdermabrasion with the application of specialized serums to target specific skin concerns to enhance their absorption and effectiveness. The most effective products for microdermabrasion with dermal infusion in melasma cases typically contain brightening agents like vitamin C, arbutin and kojic acid, along with soothing and anti-inflammatory ingredients to avoid irritation. Using serums with a combination of antioxidants and skin lighteners is ideal for melasma to reduce pigmentation and help protect the skin from further damage.
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) Therapy
IPL therapy uses light energy to target the pigment in melasma patches. Unlike lasers, which focus on a single wavelength of light, IPL uses multiple wavelengths to penetrate the skin and reduce pigmentation. This light-based treatment can be highly effective in lightening dark spots and improving the overall appearance of your skin.
Laser Treatments
Laser treatments offer a more targeted approach to treating melasma. Fractional laser treatments and pigment-specific lasers, such as the Q-switched laser, can break down excess melanin in the skin. The laser energy is absorbed by the pigmented areas, reducing discoloration and promoting a more uniform complexion.
The Palomar 1540 laser is another powerful laser option for treating melasma. This laser creates tiny channels in the skin, promoting new collagen production and enhancing the effectiveness of other treatments. For some patients, this laser treatment is paired with a physician-grade chemical peel at the same visit for optimal results.
Laser-Assisted Delivery of Tranexamic Acid
For more severe cases, a cutting-edge approach involves the laser-assisted delivery of tranexamic acid. A thulium fractional laser creates microscopic channels in the skin, allowing the tranexamic acid to penetrate deep into the epidermis. This treatment targets the melasma pigment more effectively, reducing discoloration with precision.
