Say Goodbye to Melasma and Dark Spots With Cosmetic Dermatology Treatments

Uneven skin tone can sneak up on you. Broadly called hyperpigmentation, dark spots or areas of the skin may appear for a variety of reasons. And in some cases, these darker areas might be a condition called melasma. Fortunately, you can address melasma and dark spots with a visit to a cosmetic dermatology clinic.

What Is Melasma?

Melasma is a skin condition that causes gray-brown patches on the face. These patches typically appear on the forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, and above the upper lip. While melasma is most common on the face, it may also show up on sun-exposed areas like the arms. This skin concern is much more common in women than in men, especially women with darker skin.

Melasma likely develops when the melanocytes in the skin produce excess pigment. Hormones are a common melasma trigger, so pregnant women often experience these skin patches. It can also appear if you’re taking or stopping a birth control method or undergoing hormone replacement therapy. Melasma can develop following excess sun exposure as well. The dark patches on your skin may appear more severe in the summer.

What Are Other Types of Dark Spots?

Dark spots on the skin don’t always indicate melasma. You might develop spots due to sun damage, either in the form of large sun spots or widespread freckles. Conditions like eczema, acne, and psoriasis can also leave skin discoloration behind. In some cases, dark spots can appear as a reaction to skin or hair care products.

If you’re noticing any type of hyperpigmentation on the skin, it’s important to see a dermatologist. They can pinpoint the cause of the dark spots and provide an accurate diagnosis.

How Can You Treat Pigmentation Issues?

Melasma and dark spots can be frustrating, but you don’t have to live with hyperpigmentation forever. A cosmetic dermatologist can provide treatments to fade or eliminate these spots. Some of the most effective treatments for melasma and dark spots include:

• Topical Creams: Dermatologists often prescribe topical medication to reduce the appearance of melasma and dark spots. These creams, lotions, and gels work by gently lightening the skin in these target areas. Some of the most common prescriptions for this issue include hydroquinone, tretinoin, corticosteroids, and certain acids. Keep in mind that you should always seek a prescription for a lightening cream, rather than purchasing one yourself. Over-the-counter lightening creams can be harmful to the skin.
• Chemical Peels: During a chemical peel, a dermatologist will apply an acid to the skin to remove the outer layer. This procedure can eliminate dark spots on the surface and reveal smoother skin underneath. Dermatologists may recommend this treatment for melasma or sun damaged skin.
• Microdermabrasion: This treatment physically removes the outer layer of skin and encourages the skin to regenerate. Much like chemical peels, microdermabrasion reveals smooth and even skin.
• Light or laser therapy: Depending on the cause of your dark spots, your dermatologist will either recommend light or laser treatment. These technologies can treat sun damaged skin, conditions like psoriasis, age spots, melasma, and other types of dark spots. Keep in mind that you might require multiple rounds of treatment to see results.

If you’re experiencing melasma or dark spots, and are interested in the above treatments, contact the team at Pacific Dermatology Specialists. As a cosmetic dermatology provider, we have a variety of treatments and technologies available to remove freckles and sun spots. Our offices are located in Downey, CA and a number of the surrounding communities. Visit us online to view the services and providers at each location.