Understanding melasma and treatment options
When men and women find that their skin begins to change in color, often with patches of brown or gray, they may be concerned as to what condition they are dealing with. The dermatologists at the Skin and Laser Surgery Center of New England are pleased to offer the diagnosis and treatment of conditions such as this, often known as a pigmentation disorder called “melasma.”
Understanding melasma
Melasma is the discoloration of the skin that is believed to be related to hormonal changes in the body. In fact, many pregnant women develop melasma during their pregnancy, which is how the condition became known as “the mask of pregnancy.” Others develop it in their adult years with no real trigger. Melasma is easy to diagnose, but can be difficult to treat without the help of a trained and experienced dermatologist. The team at the Skin and Laser Surgery Center of New England is pleased to offer a variety of treatment options for patients with melasma to consider.
Treatment of melasma
Melasma is a condition that may not always require treatment. However, its development can be embarrassing for some patients, especially when the darkening of the skin is severe enough to be easily noticed. While some woman may change their cosmetics to help conceal patches of melasma on the face, other patients may require treatment that can light the patches and assist in evening out the skin tone. Some of the treatment options that may be recommended by our New England team of professionals include:
- Hydroquinone
- Corticosteroids
- Tretinoin
- Kojic acid
- Azelaic acid
- Microdermabrasion
- Chemical peels
- Laser therapies
- Light treatments
- Dermabrasion
For patients who develop melasma during pregnancy, it will often fade away after the baby is born and the body’s hormones rebalance.
Discuss treatment options for melasma with our team
New Hampshire and Massachusetts area patients who struggle with the development and progression of melasma are welcome to schedule a visit at the Skin and Laser Surgery Center of New England to learn about their treatment options. We invite patients to call one of our three convenient locations and work with us today to find a resolution to their melasma concerns.