Melasma

Melasma is a skin condition more common in women with a darker skin tone. It appears as blotchy, symmetrical brown patches on the face.

Various factors may trigger melasma:

• Sunlight which includes visible light
• Hormonal factors such as pregnancy and oral contraceptives containing oestrogen
• Certain fragrances and botanicals in skincare products, which in conjunction with sunlight can produce pigmentation

Melasma usually presents itself as symmetrical, darkened patches on your face, particularly in sun-exposed areas.

Treatment tips that can help with melasma

Prescription

• Topical hydroquinone
• Topical retinoid cream
• Topical corticosteroid cream
• Consider stopping oestrogen-containing oral contraceptives

Non-Prescription

• Sun avoidance – seek shade
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat
• High-factor, broad-spectrum sunscreen that also blocks Visible Light
• Life-long, year-round sun protection
• Superficial chemical peels (avoid deep peels or any aggressive treatments)
• Medical micro-needling (Dermapen4)
• Non-ablative fractional laser

Skincare ingredients that can help with melasma

• • Lactic Acid
  • Niacinamide
  • Kojic Acid
  • Ellagic Acid
  • Arbutin
  • Phytic Acid
  • Licorice Extract
  • Retinol
  • Resorcinol
  • Peptides
  • Tranexamic Acid

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Skincare products that can help with melasma

A concern-indicated cleanser can help brighten superficial melasma while preparing the skin for treatments that follow. Dr Webster recommends:

• NeoStrata® Ultra Brightening Cleanser
• Lamelle Luminesce Brightening Cleanse

Targeted treatments containing specialised active ingredients can help regulate and reduce existing and developing forms of melasma. Dr Webster recommends:

• mesoestetic melan tran3x concentrate
• SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF
• Hyaestic Pigment Control Lotion 7% Arbutin

A well-functioning skin barrier is an imperative component for any skin treatment program. Creams containing specialised ingredients can help reduce the appearance of Melasma. Dr Webster recommends:

• Dermaceutic Mela Cream
• Huxley Glow Awakening Cream

Melasma-prone skin is more susceptible to UV-induced pigmentation. Regular use of a high-factor broad-spectrum sunscreen is one of the most proven (and easily accessible methods) of minimising the darkening of melasma patches. Dr Webster recommends:

• Colorescience Face Shield Flex (Pick your shade)
• PCA Skin Sheer Tint Broad Spectrum 45
• La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMUNE 400 Tinted Fluid SPF 50+
• Heliocare 360 Pigment Solution Fluid SPF 50