Melasma is a prevalent pigmentation disorder that can be challenging to address. While a permanent cure remains elusive, we do have effective strategies to control and significantly improve its appearance.

Sun Protection: The Cornerstone of Melasma Management 

Many underestimate the crucial role of sun protection in managing melasma.

This condition is triggered by various forms of light, including:

• UVA rays: Penetrate deeply, causing premature ageing and contributing to melasma.
• UVB rays: Cause sunburn and exacerbate melasma.
• Visible light (including blue light): Can worsen the condition.

   

Shielding Your Skin Effectively:

• Use a broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen daily: Apply it generously to your face and neck 15 minutes before sun exposure.
• Enhance protection with mineral makeup or tinted BB cream containing iron oxide: This offers additional protection against blue light.
• Apply a generous amount: Use a two-finger length of sunscreen over the face and neck to ensure adequate coverage.
• Reapply frequently: Every two hours, or more often if sweating or swimming.
• Maximize sun protection outdoors:

  → Wear a wide-brimmed hat/cap
  → Use an umbrella
  → Explore options such as sun masks and UV face patches
  → Consult your doctor about taking oral sun protection supplements

Adopting these sun protection strategies can significantly improve melasma management and prevent future flare-ups.

Addressing Melasma: Targeting Pigment Production

Following sun protection, managing melanogenesis (pigment production) is key. Here are some commonly used topical treatments, often combined for enhanced results:

• Hydroquinone, Tranexamic Acid & Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C): These ingredients work synergistically to inhibit melanin production and lighten existing pigmentation.
• Azelaic Acid: Offers anti-inflammatory and lightening benefits.
• Cysteamine: This is a more recent non-hydroquinone alternative with clinically proven benefits for melasma.
• Arbutin: A plant-based ingredient with mild lightening effects.
   

Additional Considerations:

• Plant-based UV Protection Skin Supplements: For additional protection of the skin from ageing processes and environmental stressors, such as pollution and harmful rays.
• Oral Tranexamic Acid: Prescribed under doctor’s guidance only.
   

In-Clinic Options: Addressing Existing Pigmentation

Lasers break down existing pigment clusters and allow the body to clear the shattered fragments naturally.

IYAC offers:

• pico laser: This pico laser uses high energy light pulses to target melanin and stimulate collagen production in the skin. Typically requiring 3 to 6 sessions spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart.
• Laser Circuit: Combines multiple wavelengths of light and laser energy, including the Copper Bromide 511nm/578nm FDA-approved laser for treating melasma. This treatment addresses concurrent redness and sensitivity in a single session. Monthly treatments are recommended.
   

Strengthening the Skin Barrier: A Crucial Step

Melasma often co-exists with a compromised skin barrier, influenced by factors like sensitivity, hormones and ageing. A healthy well-hydrated skin barrier is vital for melasma remission.

• Skin Barrier Repair Program (e.g., Glass Skin Program, Polynucleotides or PN):

 Utilises marine-derived DNA fragments (PN, PDRN) to initiate bio-revitalisation (healing, repair and regeneration) for healthier skin.

• Thulium 1927nm Laser: Customised intensity levels to stimulate cells at the skin barrier level, improving skin tone, texture and overall barrier function.

Melasma management requires a multi-pronged approach. While laser treatments can lighten existing pigmentation, consistent sun protection, targeted topical treatments, and oral medications or supplements must work in tandem for successful melasma remission.

Lifestyle Changes for Managing Melasma

Addressing melasma effectively also requires a shift in lifestyle as these factors have been implicated in melasma. They include:

• Hormonal Fluctuations: Melasma is hormonally driven and is more common in women, particularly during pregnancy, menopause and hormonal therapy (birth control, hormone replacement etc.).
• Sleep: Poor sleep disrupts hormones and aggravates inflammation, both of which can worsen melasma.  Sleeping within the 10pm to 2am time frame is a good strategy for many adults to get sufficient quality sleep of 7-8 hours and to align with their natural circadian rhythm.
• Stress: Chronic stress can exacerbate melasma by potentially increasing inflammation and disrupting hormonal balance. Techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help manage stress, potentially benefiting both sleep and melasma.
• Skin Care Routine: Harsh products or abrasive scrubs will irritate the skin and worsen melasma. Look for clean skincare formulated without parabens, propylene glycol, petrolatum, sodium lauryl sulfate, synthetic fragrances, colouring agents or mineral oil.

Disappointed with over-the-counter lightening creams?

The doctors at IYAC can help. We understand the complexities of skin lightening and can offer tailored advice on what works best for you.

Still unsure?

We at IYAC are here to guide you. Schedule a consultation and let us help you achieve your desired results. Say goodbye to dullness and hello to a radiant you!

Call us at 6738 9989 to learn more.

 
References:

1. Espósito ACC, Cassiano DP, da Silva CN, Lima PB, Dias JAF, Hassun K, Bagatin E, Miot LDB, Miot HA. Update on Melasma-Part I: Pathogenesis. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2022 Sep;12(9):1967-1988. doi: 10.1007/s13555-022-00779-x. Epub 2022 Jul 29. PMID: 35904706; PMCID: PMC9464278.
2. Ogbechie-Godec OA, Elbuluk N. Melasma: an Up-to-Date Comprehensive Review. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2017 Sep;7(3):305-318. doi: 10.1007/s13555-017-0194-1. Epub 2017 Jul 19. PMID: 28726212; PMCID: PMC5574745.
3. Sampaio Xerfan EM, Andersen ML, Tomimori J, Tufik S, da Silva Facina A. Melasma and the Possible Interaction with Sleep Quality. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2020 Nov;13(11):12. Epub 2020 Nov 1. PMID: 33282095; PMCID: PMC7716734.
4. Gao, Tian-Wen1; Gu, Hua2; He, Li2,∗; Lei, Tie-Chi3; Li, Ming4; Li, Tie-Nan5; Li, Chun-Ying1; Lin, Tong6; Mu, Kuan-Hou7; Tu, Cai-Xia8; Wen, Hai9; Wu, Ji-Yuan10; Xu, Ai-E11,∗; Zhang, Jun-Ling12; Zhen, Zhi-Zhong13. Consensus on the Diagnosis and Treatment of Melasma in China (2021 Version)#. International Journal of Dermatology and Venereology 4(3):p 133-139, September 2021. | DOI: 10.1097/JD9.0000000000000164