Pigmentation and melasma are both common skin conditions that can make an individual appear older than they are. However, there are numerous treatments for these conditions, many of which also have anti-aging benefits.
What Are Pigmentation and Melasma?
Pigmentation refers to skin coloring. It is common for individuals to have skin pigmentation problems, such as uneven skin tone, sunspots, and hyperpigmentation scars.
Melasma is a specific type of hyperpigmentation that is linked to hormonal imbalances. It manifests as flat brown or gray-brown patches of skin on the face.
What Are the Risk Factors?
Here are some factors that increase the chances of skin pigmentation problems in an individual:
Sun Overexposure - chronic overexposure can lead to the appearance of sunspots and other hyperpigmentation problems in later years
Skin Tone - individuals with light skin are more likely to get sunspots while those with darker complexion are more susceptible to hyperpigmentation scars
Inflammatory Skin Condition - acne, psoriasis, eczema may all leave hyperpigmentation scars
Meanwhile, melasma has its own set of risk factors:
Gender - 90% of individuals with melasma are women. Pregnant women and individuals taking oral contraceptives are especially at risk because of hormonal changes
Age - melasma often occurs in individuals over the age of 40
Descent - individuals with Asian or Latin lineage are more susceptible to melasma
Skin Tone - melasma is seen more frequently in people with olive or dark complexions
Family History - individuals whose relatives have had melasma are more likely to get it themselves
What Types of Treatment Are There?
Elos™ Skin Rejuvenation - state-of-the-art anti-aging treatment which uses bipolar radio frequency and focused light energy to break down melanin (pigment) and stimulate collagen production
Cosmelan - a world-class chemical peel formulated to reduce hyperpigmentation and skin discoloration
Glycolic Peel - another type of chemical peel that also helps lessen the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and sun damage
Microdermabrasion - exfoliation technique that uses fine abrasive material to scrape away dead cells from the topmost layer of skin, together with any melanin
Laser Treatment - low-intensity focused light that breaks down melanin located in the deeper layers of skin
Want to find out the best pigmentation and melasma treatment for you? Schedule a consultation with our board-certified dermatologists today.