Best Dermatologist for Melasma Treatments in San Francisco

What is Melasma?

Melasma is a condition that results in development of brown spots, dark spots, or areas of hyperpigmentation which are areas of the skin that have more pigment that ones natural skin tone. This condition usually affects the face, with common areas of involvement being the cheeks, forehead, nose, upper lip, chin, and sometimes, the neck. Although melasma is more common in women, some men may also suffer from this condition. Melasma affects all skin types and colors, however, persons with darker skin tones may notice more significant deepening in skin color due to this condition. Pregnant women are also commonly affected by this condition, due to fluctuations in their hormone levels.

What are the Causes?

Although the exact reasons why people develop melasma are largely unknown, factors that trigger the development of this condition include: hormonal changes in the body, for example during pregnancy or menopause, certain medications such as birth control pills, sun damage from extensive exposure to both heat and UV radiation from sunlight over many years, ones genetics or family history, and skin conditions such as acne and rosacea that result in chronic redness and inflammation in the skin.

How Do You Get Rid of It?

Melasma can be a challenging skin concern to cure due to its tendency to recur after treatment, but with proper education and skincare practices, it is treatable and manageable.

• Prescription medications: certain prescription oral and topical medications are effective in treating melasma, especially when used in combination. Because of the potential side effects of these medications, treatment by a dermatologist who can assess your condition to determine if you are a good candidate for this treatment plan is recommended for best results and to minimize side effects. These medications are not universally available over the counter, and would need to be prescribed by a physician.

• Topical cosmeceuticals: active ingredients such as vitamin C, contained in some cosmetic creams and lotions may be used to treat melasma. These treatments usually work best in combination with other treatment options.

• Chemical Peels: chemical peels work to remove the topmost layer of the skin, which can improve the appearance of conditions such as melasma, age spots, sun spots, and freckles. Persons treated with chemical peels may also notice improvement in texture of the skin, such as reduction in the size of the skin pores. Because of the risk of hyperpigmentation and other side effects such as development of scars with chemical peels, it is strongly advised that you consult with a dermatologist before this treatment procedure.

• Microneedling: is a minimally invasive procedure that consists of delivering fine needles into the skin in order to stimulate production of collagen. This treatment option can be combined with other treatment techniques, such as use of topical medications for best results.

• Lasers and Energy Device treatments: certain laser treatments, such as fractional lasers and intense pulsed light (IPL), may be used to treat melasma. These treatments work by targeting melanin, which is the pigment made by our skin cells (these pigment-producing cells are called melanocytes).

Do I Need Prepare for Treatments?

Preparing for melasma treatment is important to ensure the best experience, and to minimize potential risks, while maximizing results.

The best way to prepare for your treatment is by scheduling a consultation appointment with your dermatologist to discuss the most appropriate treatment for you. In the weeks leading up to your treatment, it is advised that you avoid sun as much as possible, as melasma is worsened by sun exposure. Plan to wear daily broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and practice sun protection by wearing protecting clothing and a broad-brimmed hat, to protect your skin, even on cloudy days.