Melasma Treatments

Melasma is a challenge to successfully treat and requires great discipline with regards to continuous sun protection. Sunscreen is recommended every morning, skin bleaches containing hydroquinone is recommended twice daily or at bedtime, and vitamin A derivatives should be used nightly as tolerated for those with melasma.

Within a couple of months, this regimen will provide visible results, with optimal results occurring typically within six months.

A few treatment options for melasma include:

Sunscreen

As practical sun avoidance is most important in the treatment of melasma, a good sunscreen is the most important step in the prevention and treatment of melasma. Anti-Chloasma Facial Suncreen SPF 25 by Belli Cosmetics, a skin care line devoted to pre-natal safety, was developed especially for the prevention of melasma. Blue Lizard Sunscreen is a popular option, and for maximum UVA/UVB protection, try ProCyte Z-Silc Sunblock SPF 30.

Bleaching creams with hydroquinone (HQ)

Using a cream like Glytone Fading Lotion with 2% HQ will decrease the production of melanin in the skin, reducing the appearance of melasma.

Vitamin A derivatives

Tretinoin, the acid derivative of vitamin A, is used to combat the hyperpigmentation that occurs with Melasma by increasing the rate at which new skin cells appear and shedding the dead, pigmented cells. These may be available by prescription as they are more potent and potentially more irritating to the skin. Milder versions are available as over-the-counter products.

Chemical peel with either glycolic or tri-chloro-acetic (TCA) acid

A chemical peel would be recommended on a case-by-case basis to speed the improvement of melasma.

Azelaic acid cream

Azelaic acid creams in products like Intense Lightening Complex Skin Lightener Gel Pigment/Age Control by Exuviance stop or slow down the skin’s pigment production.

Kojic Acid

Kojic acid, which comes from plant and fungal material, is an alternative to those who may be sensitive or allergic to hydroquinone. It still may be used in conjunction with HQ or other treatments. Bioglycolic Lightening Gel by Jan Marini Skin Research is one example.

Microdermabrasion

Microdermabrasion may be helpful when used in conjunction with effective topical products.

Results greatly vary, regardless of the methods used to treat melasma. This is partly due to the differences in where the melasma-related pigment is located in the skin. Deeper pigmentation does not respond as well to surface treatment, unlike surface pigmentation, which is easily removed by this treatment. The deeper pigmentation will fade away as time passes, as long as there is consistent and complete sun protection.

Remember — just one day of unprotected sun exposure in someone prone to melasma can undo months of treatment. Protect your skin and enjoy being outside — safely.