Melasma Treatment with Fraxel® Laser

Melasma

Melasma commonly occurs when estrogen stimulates pigmentation hormones and thus excess pigmentation is produced by the skin. In this way Melasma will cause dark brown or grey, irregular sized patches/spots on the face. Irregularly shaped spots are indeed very characteristic of Melasma.

Who Gets Melasma?

Melasma occurs more frequently in darker skinned women, but can also occur in lighter-skinned people of both sexes. Melasma is also more commonly seen among women who are pregnant or use hormone replacement therapy. Some people may be genetically predisposed to Melasma. Thyroid problems have also been known to increase susceptibility to Melasma. Another factor that may contribute to Melasma may be allergic reactions to certain drugs. In rare cases stress can also produce Melasma. Melasma is more common in women, though men can also be afflicted with Melasma.

Where does Melasma Occur?

Melasma appears gradually, forming dark patches on the skin over time. Melasma patches most often appear on the cheeks, forehead and nose. In certain cases Melasma disappears several months after hormone therapy or pregnancy are finished.

Melasma Diagnosis

Dr Gidon has specific equipment that allows her to shine a special light on the skin which will illuminate Melasma spots. The equipment, known as a Wood Lamp, enables Dr Gidon to see areas of the skin that exhibit excess melanin causing Melasma. It should be noted that Melasma does not pose any health risks. Melasma is not associated with any internal diseases or organ disorders. In most cases Dr Gidon is able to diagnose Melasma very quickly because of common characteristics of Melasma. On occasion, Dr Gidon may order a skin biopsy in order to distinguish Melasma from other possible conditions.

Melasma Treatment with Fraxel Laser

Although Melasme is not a life threatening condition, many people who have Melasma often like to remove the spots because of aesthetic reasons. There are various treatment regiments suggested for treatment of Melasma. Fraxel laser is the most effective treatment of Melasma recommended by Dr Gidon particularly for patients who have persistent cases of Melasma. Fraxel laser treats Melasma gradually over several treatments. It should also be noted that sun exposure can exacerbated Melasma, so patients with Melasma should avoid excess sun exposure and always use sunscreen. Similarly, patients with Melasma should avoid any type of ultraviolet light such as tanning beds and other strong sources of light.