Melasma can occur in the 2nd or 3rd trimester of pregnancy, in women who are not pregnant but on birth control pills or hormone replacement, in women without a history of hormones, and less frequently, in men.

Treatments for melasma

Melasma is due to excessive melanin production by the cells called melanocytes.  Treatments aim at calming down inflammation, decreasing formation of the brown pigment, melanin, and protecting the skin from UVA rays, as well as visible light and blue light in some cases. There are various topical, oral and and in-office treatments used to improve melasma.  As melasma is a chronic condition, treatments must be used year round and sunprotection is crucial.   Cosmetic services used to treat melasma include chemical peels, Diamond Glow Microdermabrasions, and light fractionated laser treatments.

Chicago Skin Science is in our office and sells a variety of products used to correct discoloration, such as sunscreens containing zinc oxide, creams with tranexamic acid, and antioxidants ( we should link here to Alastin A-luminate, Revision Vit C, etc).

All treatments for melasma take several months to achieve an effect as the skin cycling process takes 28 days. If you are not seeing improvement after 4 months, please speak with your provider about additional treatments to improve your skin..

Schedule an appointment with one of our Board Certified Dermatologists or dermatology Physician Assistants to receive your customized treatment plan.