Melasma

Melasma is a discoloration in the face, which typically affects women. You may have also heard it called the "pregnancy mask."

It usually stems from hormonal changes in a woman's body, exposure to the sun, or a combination of the two. The use of oral contraceptives has also been known to cause melasma.

It usually presents itself in brown or grey patches and can show up on your cheeks, nose, forehead, chin, or upper lip. It can also occur away from the face on your forearms and neck.

While everyone is susceptible to it, darker skinned people seem to struggle with melasma more than light or fair skinned people.

What Causes Melasma?

Melasma can happen as a side effect of things like:

  • Pregnancy
  • Oral Contraceptives
  • Endocrine Dysfunction
  • Genetic Factors
  • Medications
  • Nutritional Deficiency
  • Hepatic Dysfunction

Exposure to sun also is a major factor. Pregnant women are advised to cover up with sun screen or protective clothing to shield their faces.

Not Just "The Pregnancy Mask"

Melasma is most common in pregnant women; however it certainly shows up elsewhere. Some people see it show up when they are having an allergic reaction to a skin care product. In the same vein, it can also show up after facial waxing.

It's important to pinpoint the exact cause of the melasma to treat it correctly. It's a good idea to speak with your doctor before seeking treatment of any sort.

Treating Melasma

Prevention is the best cure. If possible, protect your skin while pregnant. Be sure to use sunscreen or cover up whenever you're in the sun.

Failing that, there are over-the-counter products available that claim to reverse the effects of melasma or the pregnancy mask. These can be somewhat effective, in some cases. However, your best bet is to see a professional who can show you a few options.

Melasma Treatment Options

The Pixel

Laser resurfacing with the Pixel can help your melasma, or acne scars, fine lines, skin texture, pigmentation, and shallow scars. It's ideal for the pregnancy mask or melasma. People have seen amazing results from The Pixel, even though the condition is resistant to most forms of treatment.

Photorejuvenation

We utilize an IPL to help you, which stands for Intense Pulsed Light. The IPL's intense light is absorbed by blood vessels and pigmented areas. These dark structures instantaneously heat up and are damaged by this intense light. The body then repairs this minor damage, and in doing so the blood vessels and pigment spots are absorbed by the body and disappear.

Peels

Peels work in part by producing a controlled chemical burn to the skin. The injured skin "peels" off and is replaced by healthier skin.

There are three categories of peels: superficial, medium, and deep. The vast majority of peels that we do are in the superficial category, which barely cause any "peeling".

Our knowledgeable and experienced staff can help you with your melasma today. You can contact us by calling 905.853.3200 or you can click here to book an appointment.

Request a Consult

*Name
*Phone
*Email
Service you're interested in
If other, please specify
Message
Terms of Use