Pigmentation

Melasma is a chronic skin hyperpigmentation that many ladies are unaware of below the age of 40. It comes as a surprise when faint brownish or greyish-brown patches start to appear on both sides of the cheeks and forehead without any symptoms such as itchiness or pain. It is a complex skin condition that frustrates many people. Science doesn’t have the exact answer yet but darker skin individuals are more likely to have it. Female hormone sensitivity (pregnancy, birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy) and thyroid hormone imbalance are known to trigger it. Genetic and sun exposure can affect the behavior of melanocytes (pigment- producing cells) in the skin that causes melasma.

For the lucky ones, melasma may disappear after pregnancy or cessation of birth control pills. For those who have been having it for years, it is important to know that there are effective treatment and maintenance strategy available. Please do not let melasma takes your confidence away. Lifestyle optimization with effective sunscreen application is a must. SPF50 sunscreen that is sheer and non-commedogenic (not too greasy) with the right amount is a good start. Please remember to reapply after heavy sweating and use sunscreen formulated for sports during activities like outdoor swimming, hiking or cycling. We get asked often about the necessity to apply sunscreen at home. Glass from the window doesn’t block UVA hence the answer is yes if there is a lot of sunlight in the house.

Heat from cooking over a stove is a risk factor so having an insulating mask is advisable. A UV cap or wide brim hat is always helpful especially on a beach holiday. For those on birth control pills, non-hormonal copper IUD is a good alternative. Some cosmetics and perfumes may trigger a phototoxic reaction after being exposed to sunlight which in turn exacerbates melasma.

Skincare with ingredients such as tretinoin, hydroquinone, mild steroids, vitamin C, kojic acid, azelaic acid and tranexamic acid are proven to help lighten melasma but it’s best to be guided by professionals. In-office therapies such as dermabrasion, chemical peeling and various laser therapies give Dr Kent’s Team good armamentarium in tackling resistant melasma. We do get asked very often about the best or the most advanced skincare or lasers for melasma. This consumer behavior is only natural as information is readily available at the fingertip however, consumers are often bemused or frustrated in trying to identify “THE BEST” solutions out there. With great empathy, our honest answer is, there is no best solutions. It doesn’t matter if it’s a PICO or NANO laser, an ablative or non-ablative laser, treating melasma requires both the professionals and patients to be patient and sensitive in sensing the risk factors. Fine tuning treatment parameters and leaving no stone unturned is the name of the game. Just like treating high blood pressure, there’s no best solution. Otherwise, everyone will be taking the same medication and there is no need for doctor visit.

For years, we have been relying on reliable, peer-reviewed scientific updates and knowing each of our patients in-and-out to solve their problems. Being patient is our forte and we have all the time to listen to your stories. So, book your session now and tell us your stories.