Although melasma is physically harmless, it can have a significant emotional impact on those who experience it. Characterized by brown or blue-grey patches, it often appears on the cheeks, nose, chin, and forehead.
What is Melasma?
Melasma primarily affects sun-exposed skin, most commonly on the face, but can also occur on the neck and forearms. While it doesn’t pose a physical risk, melasma can deeply affect a person’s emotional well-being. This condition is often referred to as “the mask of pregnancy,” as 15 to 50% of pregnant women develop it. Additionally, up to 33% of women may experience melasma during their reproductive years. Although more common in women, men also account for 10% of cases.
Melasma typically worsens during the summer when sun exposure is at its peak. Those with darker skin tones or who tan easily are more susceptible, while fair-skinned individuals are less likely to develop the condition.
How Does Melasma Occur?
Melasma is not cancerous or pre-cancerous. The condition arises from the overproduction of melanin by melanocytes, cells in the epidermis that respond to light, heat, UV radiation, and hormonal changes. This overproduction often affects both sides of the face and is usually not raised.
Types of Melasma
Melasma is classified into three types, depending on the depth of the pigment in the skin. This can be determined by a skin biopsy or commonly with a “Woods Light,” an ultraviolet lamp:
- Epidermal: Dark brown with a well-defined border, easily seen under Woods Light.
- Dermal: Light brown to blue with poorly defined borders, appearing no different under Woods Light.
- Mixed: The most common type, presenting as a combination of brown and blue colors with a mixed appearance under Woods Light.
What Causes Melasma?
The main causes of melasma include exposure to the sun, heat, or ultraviolet radiation, as well as hormonal factors. Secondary causes may involve birth control pills, synthetic estrogens, tanning beds, certain skin care products, genetics, exposure to LED screens, thyroid disease, and specific medications.
Treatment Options
Melasma is notoriously difficult to treat. It may resolve on its own, relapse, or remain active for years. Regardless of treatment, sun avoidance and the use of sunscreen with at least SPF 30-50 are essential. Additionally, all hormonal triggers should be discontinued.
Topicals for Melasma Treatment
Several topical treatments can help manage melasma by inhibiting melanin production:
- Azelaic Acid
- Hydrocortisone
- Hydroquinone
- Methimazole
- Cysteamine
- Tretinoin
- Kojic Acid
- Tranexamic Acid
These topicals work by either blocking melanin production or lightening the skin.
Procedures for Melasma Treatment
If topical treatments prove insufficient, procedures such as laser ablation, chemical peels, or dermabrasion may be considered. However, these methods can have serious side effects. Recent studies have shown that Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) is an effective treatment for melasma without the associated risks.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
PRP is a concentrated component of whole blood, processed to remove red and white blood cells while retaining growth factors crucial for tissue repair. PRP has a variety of applications, and its benefits are well-documented in medical literature.
A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology compared microneedling with PRP to microneedling with tranexamic acid (TXA) for treating melasma. The study found that microneedling with PRP offered superior results over TXA, making it one of the best treatment options for melasma.
Juventix Regenerative Medical’s Platelet-Rich Plasma Kits have been scientifically proven to provide consistent and reproducible results. Unlike other kits, Juventix PRP Kits are FDA-approved, ensuring you offer your patients the best available treatment.
Melasma can be frustrating for both patients and practitioners due to its chronic nature and potential for relapse. Treatments can be costly and may have side effects, but PRP offers a safe and effective option without the risk of allergic reactions or side effects. PRP not only provides a solution for acute cases but also serves as an excellent choice for chronic maintenance therapy.
Choose Juventix for Your PRP Needs
Remember, not all PRP kits are the same. Choose Juventix for consistent, high-quality results.
Regenerative Regards,
Dr. Robert McGrath