Melasma sounds like an intimidating skin condition, but what exactly is it? Can it damage your skin? Most importantly, what is the best melasma skin complexion treatment in Bethesda?
Keep reading to learn everything you need to know, how to get rid of your melasma with procedures such as microneedling and ways that may help prevent it!
First Things First, What Is Melasma? What Causes It?
Melasma is a condition characterized by dark, discolored patches on your skin, typically appearing on your face.
It’s called chloasma or the “mask of pregnancy” when it occurs in pregnant women. These patches are usually brown, tan, or blue-gray depending on your skin tone.
The exact cause of melasma is not fully understood, however there are some factors that contribute to its development, such as:
- Genetics: A family history of melasma increases the likelihood of developing it.
- Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during pregnancy, oral contraceptive use, or hormone replacement therapy, can trigger these dark spots.
- Medications and Cosmetics: Certain medications, cosmetics, and skincare products can increase your sensitivity to sunlight and contribute to the development of melasma.
- Skin Type: People with darker skin tones are more prone to this skin condition due to their higher baseline activity of melanocytes (the pigment-producing cells in skin).
- Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun stimulate melanocytes to produce excess melanin, leading to the formation of discolored patches.
Is Melasma Harmful to My Health?
Melasma is not harmful to your health and is primarily a cosmetic concern. It doesn’t cause any serious discomfort nor does it lead to serious health problems.
If you notice discomfort or other unpleasant side effects in addition to dark patches, it’s crucial that you see a medical professional to determine its true cause.
The appearance of melasma can affect your self-esteem and confidence though. Managing and treating your skin condition is important to improve your self image and overall quality of life.
What Is the Best Melasma Skin Complexion Treatment in Bethesda?
Fortunately, there is more than one way you can address your melasma for clear skin. The top three treatments recommended are:
- Chemical Peels: This involves the application of a chemical solution to your skin, which exfoliates the top layers and promotes the growth of new, healthy skin cells. This can help to improve dark patches and improve your skin tone as a whole.
Chemical peels vary in strength, with superficial peels being the most mild and deep peels providing more dramatic results.
Multiple sessions may be required to achieve optimal results, depending on the depth and intensity of your treatment.
- Microneedling: A minimally invasive procedure, fine needles are used to create micro-injuries on your skin, hence its name. These controlled injuries stimulate both collagen production and your body’s natural healing response, promoting skin rejuvenation from the inside out.
It can be combined with topical treatments for enhanced results, and it may take multiple sessions if you have particularly severe melasma.
- Morpheus8: This is a minimally invasive device that combines the benefits of microneedling, as explained above, and radiofrequency (RF) energy.
This treatment targets the deeper layers of your skin with radiofrequency waves to heat up tissues, induce collagen and elastin production, and remodel your skin. In turn, this improves both your skin tone and texture.
Is It Painful to Treat Melasma?
The level of discomfort experienced with the best melasma skin complexion treatment in Bethesda depends on which method you pursue.
You shouldn’t experience any significant pain during any of these procedures as long as a skilled practitioner who has experience with melasma treats you.
Numbing creams can be applied prior to services like Morpheus8 and microneedling, minimizing discomfort and ensuring a pain-free experience. Chemical peels may cause a slight stinging sensation but nothing unbearable.
How Long Does It Take to See Improvement? Are Results Permanent?
This, again, depends on what type of treatment you use and the severity of your condition. Some patients may notice a gradual lightening of dark patches within a week or two, while others may require three four months of consistent treatment to achieve significant improvement.
While melasma can often be effectively managed and treatments can deliver long-lasting improvement, the results are not always permanent.
This condition has a tendency to recur, especially with continued sun exposure or hormonal changes.
How Do I Care for My Skin to Prevent Melasma?
Protecting your skin from the sun is key in preventing melasma. Wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days and during cold months.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors and wear protective clothing, such as sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats.
Practice self-care.
Avoid using harsh products that could irritate your skin. Opt for gentle cleansers and moisturizers recommended by a professional, and maintain a consistent routine. Consider topical products with vitamin C and retinoids if safe for you.
If you are taking hormonal medications, such as birth control, discuss alternative options with your healthcare provider if you notice melasma developing or worsening.
Take the Next Step Towards Glowing, Healthy Skin and Visit Moksha Aesthetics Today!
Our experts at Moksha Aesthetics are skilled in a variety of non-surgical, safe, and effective treatments, helping you to combat your skin woes and win.
From medical grade chemical peels to Morpheus8, we make it easier than ever to rejuvenate your skin!
Call us now at 240-907-5009 to book your consultation at our Potomac office!