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Melasma Treatment Specialist

Dermatology Arts

Medical, Surgical and Cosmetic Dermatology serving the areas of South Pasadena, Arcadia, San Marino, La Canada - Flintridge, and Los Angeles, CA

At least 5 million Americans have melasma today. If you have a mask of brown spots on your cheeks, the dedicated team at Dermatology Arts can help in their South Pasadena and Arcadia, California, offices. Melasma can be very embarrassing, but fortunately, it’s very treatable. Book your appointment through online scheduling or call the office in your area today.

Melasma Treatment Q & A

What is melasma?

Melasma is a skin condition in which brown or grayish blotches appear on your face. In most cases, it appears on the cheeks, nose, forehead, chin, and just above the top lip. This can create a mask-like appearance. 

Melasma primarily affects women but can also occur in men. Melasma causes are unclear, but the most common triggers are hormone fluctuations (including pregnancy, hormone replacement, and birth control pills) and sun exposure. 

Harsh skin care products can also worsen melasma. It's quite common during pregnancy; up to 50% of pregnant women develop melasma. 

Who needs melasma treatment?

While melasma isn't dangerous, it's quite distressing for many people. If you think those blotches on our face are melasma and they bother you, Dermatology Arts is here to help. 

The team understands each patient's individual needs. They can tailor your treatment to help you safely combat melasma, whether during pregnancy or at other times in your life.

What does melasma treatment involve?

There are many different treatments for melasma. Dermatology Arts offers the best in evidence-based melasma solutions, customized for your particular situation. 

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, topical treatments including hydroquinone, tretinoin, and corticosteroids are generally the frontline approaches for melasma. Topical acids, such as azelaic acid or kojic acid, are other melasma treatment options. 

If topical treatments don't curb your melasma, you may need an in-office procedure such as light-based treatments, chemical peels, or microdermabrasion. 

What should I do after my melasma treatment?

The Dermatology Arts team gives you personalized tips to help you prevent melasma recurrence. Some common tips include:

  • Reducing your sun exposure
  • Avoiding indoor tanning
  • Wearing sunscreen or sunblock
  • Wearing clothes with built-in UV protection when outside
  • Wearing wide-brimmed hats when outside
  • Avoiding harsh skin care products

The team understands that you might not be able to control everything, but managing your sun exposure properly can greatly reduce your risk of future melasma problems. 

At Dermatology Arts, the team understands how upsetting melasma can be. They're here to help you permanently eliminate the patchy brown spots, so call the office in your area or book an appointment with the online scheduling link now.