Melasma

Melasma

Are you tired of trying to cover up dense patches of hyperpigmentation on your face, arms, or body? Do these blotches of brown or gray on your forehead, cheeks, jawline or upper lip make you feel overly self-conscious? You may have a skin condition known as melasma, which is common among women but can also affect men as well. Fortunately, there are numerous melasma treatment options available in Hawaii to help reduce hyperpigmentation to achieve a clear, even skin tone.

Dr. Kory Kitagawa has extensive training and experience treating melasma and other hyperpigmentation problems using the most advanced treatments available. To learn more about which melasma treatment is right for you, please call Kitagawa Dermatology in Honolulu, Hawaii at (808) 533-4434 or contact us online.

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What is Melasma?

Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown or grayish brown patches on the face as a result of dysfunctional melanocytes. Melanocytes are responsible for creating color in skin tissue, and when they do not function correctly, may produce too much color, resulting in discolored splotches on the skin. In most cases, melasma is a difficult skin condition to treat with a high rate of recurrence. Therefore, regular in-office melasma treatment sessions from a skilled Honolulu dermatologist may be necessary to maintain the desired results.

There is no known cause of melasma, but certain triggers have been identified, including:

  • Hormones – Melasma often affects pregnant women who develop the discoloration on their faces. Also known as chloasma or mask of pregnancy, it is believed that melasma can be triggered by a sudden increase in estrogen, progesterone, and other melanocyte-stimulating hormones. Some women may develop melasma as a result of taking birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.
  • Genetics – Some people are simply genetically predisposed to develop melasma, such as men or women who have a medium to a dark colored skin.
  • Ultraviolet Light – Sun exposure is one of the most common ways to trigger pigmentation production in the skin. Whether a person is prone to develop melasma or not, it is strongly suggested that everyone wear sunscreen and avoid direct sunlight all year round.

Learn more about pigmentation removal at WebMD.com.

Types of Hyperpigmentation Treatments

At Kitagawa Dermatology in Honolulu, Hawaii, there are several highly effective melasma treatment options available to help reduce the appearance of melasma in any skin type or color. These include:

  • PicoWay Resolve – This fractional laser uses picosecond pulses to treat skin lesions on a broad range or skin types for the effective and efficient removal of melisma. This gentle laser treatment improves pigmentation with no downtime and fast, noticeable results.
  • Chemical Peels – Kitagawa Dermatology offers a wide range of chemical peels that safely and effectively treat unwanted pigmentation. Peels often leave the skin red and peeling during the first few days after application, but can achieve amazing results after just one session. Follow-up peels for melasma treatment may be scheduled for any remaining hyperpigmentation.
  • Combination Treatments – For thorough, long-lasting results, we recommend combining a series of the most effective dermatologic melasma treatments over a period of months in addition to a daily skincare regimen rich in antioxidants, SPF, and lightening agents, such as hydroquinone or non-hydroquinone-based products.

Additional Tips for Preventing Hyperpigmentation

One of the most difficult aspects of treating melasma is preventing sunlight from stimulating the production of melanin (brown pigmentation). In addition to dermatologic measures, such as laser treatments and chemical peels, it is strongly suggested that patients take the following precautions every day to maintain the best possible results.

  • Always wear SPF 30 or higher on areas that are exposed to natural light
  • Wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors
  • Discuss switching contraception or decreasing estrogen dosage with your doctor
  • Only rely on gentle skincare products that do not irritate your skin

While melasma may not be entirely preventable, taking extra care to protect the skin and consult with a professional skin care specialist in Hawaii can ensure the best possible chance at keeping unwanted spots, patches, and general hyperpigmentation away.

Set Up a Melasma Treatment Consultation Today!

To learn more about our medical services and our melasma treatment options and therapies that are available at Kitagawa Dermatology in Hawaii, please do not wait to contact us! Our skilled team can help you achieve the best possible outcome to ensure that your skin his healthy and strong but also suits your cosmetic goals. Call (808) 533-4434 or contact us online for pigmentation removal!

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