Melasma
The colour of your skin, hair and eyes is determined by a pigment called melanin. This pigment is produced by pigment-cells called melanocytes. Healthy melanocytes will evenly distribute pigment throughout the skin, giving a smooth and even complexion. Unhealthy, inflamed or damaged melanocytes can either over-produce clumps of pigment leading to hyperpigmentation (dark spots), or stop producing pigment altogether leading to hypopigmentation (white spots).
Melasma (also known as ‘pregnancy mask’ or Chloasma) is a symmetrical hypermelanosis (pigmentation) of the face that effects up to 30% of women. It is influenced by genetics, sun exposure and female hormones; and is a condition that can be complex to understand and successfully treat. The latest research suggests several treatment options that can safely and effectively eradicate pigmentation and prevent recurrence of melasma.
Treatment Options
Topical bleaching agents are considered to be the ‘gold standard’ treatment for melasma. As sun exposure is a major factor in the development of melasma, sun avoidance and strict use of high-factor SPF is recommended. At Drs Tatiana + Rishi Advanced Aesthetics, we offer a range of evidence-based topical preparations that effectively treat Melasma. For example, we offer a bespoke prescription cream, consisting of a triad of corticosteroid, retinoic acid and hydroquinone that is a highly effective option for eradicating pigmentation. Tranexamic acid (topical and oral) has also been shown to effectively reduce hyperpigmentation in melasma. Other effective treatment modalities include chemical peels that exfoliate the skin. During your consultation, we will assess and advise you on the optimal topical skincare regime to address your pigmentation and to maintain skin health.
Fruit and other natural acids can be used to blend pigmentation, improve skin texture, and promote regeneration. The treatment involves a non-toxic chemical (usually from fruit acids) applied to the skin to naturally exfoliate and remove pigmentation. Peels range from mild and refreshing to more intense and resurfacing. We offer a full range of Dr Tatiana’s own blend of chemical peels. Dr Tatiana has combined natural acids with anti-inflammatory ingredients to achieve optimal results, reduce risk of melasma recurrence and minimise down-time.
Unlike traditional lasers, which use nanosecond pulses, picosecond lasers deliver laser energy in extremely short picosecond pulses. This ultra-short pulse duration allows precise targeting of pigment particles with a photo-acoustic effect, working to shatter pigment particles with minimal heat and damage to the surrounding skin. This reduced heat generation helps minimise the risk of thermal damage to the surrounding skin and lowers the chance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), a potential side effect of laser treatments in individuals with melasma
Polynucleotides are the building blocks of DNA and RNA. As polynucleotides are broken down in our body, they promote DNA synthesis, increase cell regeneration and cellular repair as well as increase blood flow and nutrient supply. This is beneficial for melasma as it can promote the turnover of skin cells, gradually replacing the hyperpigmented cells with new, normally pigmented cells. Polynucleotides also protect the skin from oxidative stress, which can trigger or worsen melasma.
There is increasing evidence suggesting that the over-growth of blood vessels is involved in the development and frequent recurrences of melasma. A number of recent studies have focused on the effectiveness of vascular lasers in the treatment of melasma and found that such lasers are safe and effective in lightening pigmentation and reducing the recurrence of melasma. At Drs Tatiana + Rishi Advanced Aesthetics we use gold-standard vascular lasers alongside other treatments to effectively treat and prevent the recurrence of melasma.Â
Cosmelan and Dermamelan peels are industry-leading treatments for all types of pigmentation, including melasma. The peels work to deeply resurface, blend and remove unwanted pigment whilst also improving skin texture, luminosity and health. The treatment programme includes skin preparation, two targeted peels and a 12-month supply of skin products – to ensure that we help you maintain the outstanding results of your treatment.
