Melasma is a dermatological condition where irregular brown or brownish-grey patches appear on the face, particularly in areas most exposed to the sun—such as the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and chin. In some cases, these abnormal patches can also occur in other sun-exposed areas but with less probability.
Melasma: Cause of Insecurity and Distress
Melasma, while benign, can be a cause of severe emotional distress and insecurity, especially for women. The outlook of Melasma varies from person to person. The patches usually start as tiny but can gradually expand and become more extensive due to sun exposure. Without prompt and proper treatment, it can become a persistent condition where patches may last long and become permanent.
Fortunately, there are plenty of treatment options available today for Melasma. A qualified dermatologist specializing in Melasma treatment can evaluate your condition, stop the spread, lighten the patches, and significantly improve the overall condition of your skin.
So how is Melasma treated, and what can patients expect after treatment? With input from a consultant dermatologist and cosmetologist in Karimnagar, Dr. B Jyothi, we answer these commonly asked questions in this blog hereafter briefly going through the symptoms and causes of Melasma.
Symptoms/Indications and Causes of Melasma:
Patches of discoloration, usually darker than the skin color, that appear on visible areas of the face, such as the cheeks, forehead, chin, and bridge of the nose, primarily indicate Melasma. They may initially appear tiny but gradually become more extensive, ultimately causing self-consciousness and insecurity in the patient.
There is no single cause of Melasma. More than 90% of Melasma cases occur in women, and the reasons usually involve hormonal imbalance, sun exposure, stress, thyroid disease, and even genetic disposition can trigger Melasma in women.
Treatment for Melasma: How Does It Work?
A dermatologist uses a specialized apparatus called a dermatoscope to identify the condition and assess the extent of pigmentation within the layers of the skin.
“Because each case of Melasma varies, there is no one-size-fits-all treatment. The approach depends on specific patient factors, Melasma triggers, the depth of pigmentation, and skin tone”, says Dr B Jyothi, dermatologist and cosmetologist at Lalitha Chest and Skin Hospital in Karimnagar.
A dermatologist specializing in Melasma treatment considers these factors to create a customized plan for transformation. A typical plan includes:
Medications: Prescribing a comprehensive skin health plan with medications targeting discoloured patches.
Sunscreen: Recommend a strong sunscreen with zinc/titanium/iron oxide to prevent UV rays that trigger the spread.
Topical Creams/Ointments: Suggesting specialized medicated creams (e.g., hydroquinone, tretinoin, corticosteroids) to decrease pigmentation and even skin tone.
A complete skincare routine, including the right sunscreen, Melasma medication, and moisturizers, can control Melasma and decrease overall pigmentation. However, stubborn cases may require advanced treatment options.
Dr. B Jyothi has successfully treated numerous Melasma cases with medications at Lalitha Chest and Skin Hospital in Karimnagar. In cases where medications prove ineffective, advanced treatments such as chemical peeling, micro-needling, and Melasma laser treatments are incorporated into the plans to lighten and eliminate discoloured patches. These procedures can significantly transform the skin when combined with Melasma medication and a comprehensive skincare plan.
As these are advanced procedures, only certified dermatologists are authorized to perform them. If you’re in Karimnagar seeking Melasma treatment, Dr. B Jyothi at Lalitha Chest and Skin Hospital is a qualified and experienced dermatologist with a proven track record in Melasma treatment. Feel free to contact her here for further assistance.
