Melasma
Melasma is a common skin condition that causes dark patches, typically on the face. Although melasma isn’t harmful, it can be persistent and frustrating to manage. At Cascade Eye & Skin Centers, we help patients with treatments that reduce discoloration and promote a clearer, more even skin tone.
What is Melasma?
Melasma appears as brown or grayish patches on the skin, most commonly on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and jawline. It occurs due to an overproduction of melanin (the pigment that gives your skin its color). Unlike age spots or typical hyperpigmentation, melasma is more complex and can be difficult to treat without targeted care.
Common Triggers of Melasma
- Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, birth control, and hormone therapy can stimulate melanin production, leading to melasma. This is why it’s sometimes referred to as the “pregnancy mask.”
- Sun Exposure: UV rays activate melanocytes (pigment-producing cells), darkening existing melasma and triggering new patches.
- Heat and Inflammation: Exposure to high temperatures, even without direct sun, can worsen melasma. Activities like hot yoga or excessive exfoliation can contribute.
- Genetics: If melasma runs in your family, you may be more prone to developing it.
Treatments for Melasma
Prescription-strength Topicals
- Hydroquinone: A skin-lightening agent that helps reduce melanin production and fade dark patches. Often prescribed for short-term use.
- Tretinoin (Retinoid): Helps increase cell turnover to gradually lighten pigmentation over time.
- Azelaic Acid: A gentler alternative to hydroquinone that reduces pigmentation while also calming inflammation.
- Cysteamine Cream: A newer topical treatment that helps reduce the appearance of dark spots with fewer side effects than hydroquinone.
In-Office Procedures
- Chemical Peels: Medium-depth peels with ingredients like glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid (TCA) can help exfoliate and lighten dark patches.
- Laser Therapy: Some lasers can be used cautiously to break up pigment, but not all lasers are safe for melasma. Our dermatology providers will determine the best option based on your skin type.
- Microneedling with Tranexamic Acid: A promising treatment that helps deliver pigment-reducing ingredients deeper into the skin.
Lifestyle Management for Melasma
1. Limit Heat & Sun Exposure
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors for added protection.
- Seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours (10 AM – 4 PM).
- Be mindful of heat exposure. Limit time in saunas, hot showers, and outdoor activities that cause prolonged heat exposure.
- Protect against blue light exposure. Blue light from screens and indoor lighting can contribute to skin damage and hyperpigmentation. Click here to shop Colorescience sunscreens, which all include built-in blue light protection.
2. Choose Gentle Skincare & Makeup
- Avoid harsh scrubs and strong chemical peels that can inflame the skin.
- Opt for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic skincare products.
- Use mineral-based makeup with SPF for added sun protection.
3. Address Hormonal Factors
- If your melasma started after birth control use, talk to your doctor about alternative options.
- Pregnant women experiencing melasma should consult a dermatologist for pregnancy-safe treatments.
4. Be Patient and Stay Consistent
- Treating melasma takes time, so consistency is key (it may take weeks to months to see results).
- Follow a simple yet effective regimen: daily sunscreen, brightening treatments, and gentle exfoliation.
Get Started
with Cascade
Contact Cascade Eye & Skin Centers, P.C., today to learn more about eye and skin care from the experts.
Get Started
with Cascade
Contact Cascade Eye & Skin Centers, P.C., today to learn more about eye and skin care from the experts.
If you are an existing patient looking to refill a prescription, pay a bill, access medical records, view lab results, or communicate with staff, please visit our patient portal for these services. You can also check out our patient portal overview page for additional information.
Get Started
with Cascade
Contact Cascade Eye & Skin Centers, P.C. today to learn more about eye and skin care from the experts.
Please note, we do not offer online scheduling for the eye specialties listed below, only for routine eye exams. Please use the following numbers to schedule specialty eye appointments or to place an order:
If you are an existing patient looking to refill a prescription, pay a bill, access medical records, view lab results, or communicate with staff,
please visit our patient portal for these services. You can also check out our patient portal overview page for additional information.