18 Jan Melasma: The Pregnancy Mask
You know that brown patches on the skin are common and often caused by sun damage, but what about when those patches are gray? RefinedMD treats a wide range of skin issues, including the lesser known melasma. Melasma can also be brownish in color and differs from other types of sun damage because it appears in “sheets” with irregular edges. It’s especially prevalent in pregnant women, and when this occurs it’s called chloasma or “the mask of pregnancy.”
Men can develop melasma, too. It’s relatively common, harmless, and can be triggered by sunlight. For pregnant women, melasma often goes away naturally after giving birth. Otherwise, it can be treated with prescription creams or laser skin resurfacing. Melasma is a kind of hyperpigmentation and is a pigmentary disorder. The cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and bridge of the nose are especially common areas for melasma to occur.
More on Melasma
Although anyone can develop melasma, it’s most common in people with more melanin, and 90 percent of cases are women. Latinx, Asians, Blacks, and Middle Eastern women experience particularly high rates. If you have brown skin and live in an area with a lot of sunlight, your chances of developing melasma increase.
Nobody knows exactly what causes it, but there is a genetic link. A change in hormones, such as menopause or pregnancy, can also kickstart a melasma outbreak. While avoiding sunlight is key, bear in mind that light exposure can also worsen melasma. UV lights from light bulbs can cause the cells that produce pigment to increase production. Even a little time in the sun, like driving in a car, can be troublesome for those prone to melasma.
A dermatologist can quickly diagnose melasma and it’s rare that a biopsy is recommended. When it comes to treatment, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Different people react differently to treatments, and often a hybrid approach of in-office and at-home treatments work best.
Complement Melasma Treatments with Skin Care Products
It is unlikely that anyone will enjoy optimal results from any single treatment, whether it is laser skin rejuvenation or a chemical peel. A wide variety of both treatment and complementary skin care products are available to maximize results in our clinic. Younger-looking, glowing, clear skin requires a regimen. Skin care products can make skin treatment results even better while prolonging these treatment’s effects.
Skin is the body’s largest organ. Although a myriad of treatment options can help with nearly any complaint, from wrinkles and sun damage to discoloration like melasma and lax toning, most of the time the skin requires more than addressing a single issue. Other times, a treatment can leave skin more sensitive and vulnerable post-treatment and in need of some extra protection.
A Holistic Approach
When patients schedule a consultation, a holistic skin goal is created. Why opt for laser skin rejuvenation only to leave the skin at a higher risk of burning and sun damage with a sub-par sunscreen? Epionce is the premium choice for facial sun protection, providing advanced safeguarding after treatment without the risk of clogged pores or acne breakouts.
Only top of the line skin care products are recommended and available in-office. This includes the full line of Revision Skincare. These products have long been considered one of the most effective in the dermatology world with options ranging from gentle cleansers to toners and exfoliators. With so many skin care products on the market, it can be overwhelming. However, dermatologists have undertaken research and testing so clients do not have to.
Elastin features an impressive array of anti-aging products that are founded in science. You have already taken the first step in your journey towards better skin by scheduling a treatment. No matter the goals, from increased volume to addressing deeper lines and wrinkles, take the results to the next level with proper skin care. Our skin is always changing, and skin care needs to follow suit. Many clients do not realize that they are settling for “good enough” options. Call RefinedMD today or use the contact form to begin designing an ultimate skin treatment plan with the right devices and products.