Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown or grayish patches on the face, particularly on the cheeks, forehead, chin, and nose. It affects women more frequently than men, especially those with darker skin tones. Melasma is usually caused by hormonal changes, such as pregnancy, birth control pills, or hormone replacement therapy. However, sun exposure, genetics, and certain medications can also trigger melasma.
If you are experiencing melasma, don’t worry, you are not alone. Dr. Bernard Raskin at Advanced Dermatology can help you manage and treat this condition. With a combination of treatments, he can help to reduce the appearance of melasma and restore your skin’s natural beauty.
The first step in treating melasma is to protect your skin from the sun. Sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 should be applied every day, and you should also wear a hat and sunglasses when outside. If you are taking hormone therapy, you may want to talk to your doctor about adjusting your medication to help prevent melasma.
Topical medications can also be used to treat melasma. Some of the most common topical medications include:
Hydroquinone – this bleaching agent helps to lighten the skin and reduce the appearance of melasma.
Retinoids – these vitamin A derivatives help to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of melasma.
Corticosteroids – these anti-inflammatory agents help to reduce inflammation and redness associated with melasma.
In addition to these topical treatments, chemical peels and microdermabrasion can also be used to exfoliate the skin and reduce the appearance of melasma. Laser treatments may also be effective in treating melasma, although they are typically reserved for more severe cases.
If you are suffering from melasma, don’t hesitate to seek help from a Bakersfield dermatologist like Dr. Raskin. He can help to determine the underlying cause of your melasma and create a personalized treatment plan that works for you. With proper treatment and care, you can restore your skin’s natural beauty and feel confident in your appearance.
Schedule an appointment today.