One of the most common skin conditions that we treat at Ava MD is a form of hyperpigmentation called melasma that most often occurs in dense, symmetrical patches of gray or brown on the face, arms, or body. While the majority of people that suffer from melasma are women, it is not entirely uncommon in men. If you are ready to get clear, even skin, let the skilled cosmetic dermatologists at Ava MD treat this stubborn, distracting condition for you.
Dr. Ava Shamban and Dr. Soheil Simzar have years of experience delivering the latest, cutting-edge treatments available for a wide variety of skin conditions, such as melasma. To learn more about our treatment options and which ones are right for you, please call our Beverly Hills office at 310-843-9915 (Beverly Hills) or 310-828-2282 (Santa Monica). You may also contact us online!
What Causes Melasma?
Melasma is essentially patchy discoloration of the skin when the color-making cells of skin tissue (melanocytes) simply produce too much color. While the exact causes are not certain, common triggers or factors associated with melasma include:
Hormones – Pregnant women often get melasma or chloasma (mask of pregnancy) as a result of increased estrogen, progesterone, and other malonocyte-stimulating hormones. Melasma can also be triggered by hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills.
Ultraviolet Light – Sun exposure can trigger the pigment producing cells in the skin, causing a recurrence of melasma even if it has been successfully treated. It is strongly suggested that those prone to melasma (and even those who aren’t) take care to protect their skin from the sun year round.
Genetics – Certain people have a genetic predisposition for melasma, such as men or women with medium to dark skin.
Effective Melasma Treatments
There are a number of treatment options that can be used to effectively reduce the appearance of melasma in a wide range of skin types and tones. At Ava MD, our expert cosmetic dermatologists offer the following:
<Microneedlingis a safe, non-invasive skin resurfacing treatment that not only helps refine skin texture, it can also reduce the appearance of unwanted pigmentation, such as melasma. The procedure take no more than 30 minutes and stimulates collagen production and tissue regeneration in the treated area, resulting in fresh, vibrant skin.
Clear & Brilliant is a fractional laser treatment that triggers cell reproduction in the skin in order to improve texture and lighten pigmentation.
Microdermabrasion can remove dead skin cells and pigmentation from the surface layers of the skin in order to promote collagen production and less pigmented tissue production.
Cosmelan Peel can help treat melasma on almost all skin tones. It works by inhibiting tyrosinase, which is an enzyme in the melanin formation process. Cosmelan peels will leave the skin red and peeling for a few days, but are highly effective and can achieve results after just one peel, with a second follow-up for any remaining pigmentation.
Call Us for a Comprehensive Consultation Today!
For additional information on the therapies and treatment options for melasma, please contact Ava MD today! Our skilled dermatologists can help you reach your cosmetic goals using the healthiest and most advanced techniques available. To schedule your consultation, just call 310-843-9915 (Beverly Hills) or 310-828-2282 (Santa Monica) today!