Melasma Treatment in Pune

Melasma is a condition in which brown patches appear on parts of the skin exposed to the sun. This is common in darker-skin women, as well as women of reproductive age. (When it occurs in pregnant women, it is also called the “mask of pregnancy” or chloasma.) It also affects men. Melasma appears as freckle-like spots forming large, flat, brown patches.

Clear Skin offers specialized treatment options for all skin problems. With affordable pricing, the latest technological advances, and promising results, we offer the best laser treatment for melasma.

Table of Contents

Causes of Melasma

Melasma in Men: Causes and Treatments

Types of Melasma

Melasma Treatment Methods

Do’s & Don'ts for Preventing Melasma

Melasma Laser Treatment Cost in Pune

Why choose ClearSkin for Melasma Treatment in Pune?

Causes of Melasma

The pigmentation is a result of the overproduction of melanin. People who tan easily or have naturally brown skin are prone to melasma because they have more active melanocytes compared to people with lighter skin.

Melasma depends on your genetic predisposition. A few of the other triggering factors are:

Sun exposure:

Uncontrolled exposure to the sun is the leading trigger as UV light from the sun stimulates the melanocytes, increasing melanin production.

Hormonal changes:

Internal hormonal changes, as seen in pregnancy, stress, thyroid disorders as well as exogenous hormone treatments in the form of oral contraceptives, intrauterine devices, hormone replacement therapy, are all implicated in the triggering of melasma.

Medications:

Certain medications like anti-seizure drugs, anti malignant drugs could also act as triggers.

Skincare products:

Scented soaps, toiletries, cosmetics, and skin care products that irritate the skin. This may increase melanin production and accelerate melasma symptoms.

Melasma in Men: Causes and Treatments   

Melasma is a pigmentation disorder that occurs commonly in women. However, melasma in men is also common now. It is characterised by the appearance of dark patches on the skin, mostly on the face or areas exposed to the sun . Although harmless, melasma can lead to lowered self-confidence due to brown hyperpigmentation on the nose, forehead or the entire face. Here is an insight into the causes and treatments for melasma in men.

Causes of Melasma in Males

• Overexposure to the sun can lead to the appearance of dark spots or patches on the skin due to the generation of excess melanin. This hyperpigmentation is called melasma.
• Hormonal imbalance is another leading cause of melasma in men. Thyroid disorders can also cause melasma .
• Stress can lead to hyperpigmentation, leading to the appearance of dark patches on the skin. This is melasma.
• Some men are genetically more susceptible to hyperpigmentation. So, genetic susceptibility or family history is also a reason behind melasma.
• A less common but important cause of melasma in men is cosmetics. Certain cosmetics with harsh chemicals may lead to the appearance of dark patches on the face.
• Certain photosensitizing medicines can lead to melasma in men.

Treatment for Melasma in Males 

• Skin lightening creams and other topical medicines work well to reduce hyperpigmentation caused by melasma.
• Chemical peels are an effective way to treat melasma in males.
• Laser therapy is among the best melasma treatments for men.
• Microneedling is another effective treatment procedure for melasma in males.
• Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion, wherein, some layers of the skin are removed, are among the best melasma treatments.
• Application of aloe vera gel on the affected skin region, keeping the skin well-hydrated and clean, and following a balanced diet are important in preventing the recurrence of melasma. Most importantly, use sunscreen on a daily basis.

Most often, a combination of melasma treatment methods helps give relief from this skin condition. It is advisable to consult a dermatologist, about which melasma treatment(s) would suit you best.

Types of Melasma

Epidermal melasma:

In this condition, excess melanin layers are present in the keratinocytes cells of the epidermis. In fact, this type of melasma has patches with well-defined borders and responds well to treatment.

Dermal melasma:

In this condition, the excess melanin may be deposited in the inner or deeper layer of skin called the dermis. Moreover, this type of melasma has unclear borders and does not respond well to treatment.

Mixed:

In this condition, pigmentation occurs in the epidermis as well as the dermis.

Patterns of Melasma

Melasma occurs on both sides of the face, indistinct patterns such as -
Centrofacial pattern: This occurs on the forehead, cheeks, nose, and upper lip. This is the most common pattern.
Malar pattern: This occurs on the cheeks and nose.
Mandibular pattern: This occurs on the jawline.

Melasma Treatment Methods

While there is no cure for melasma, many successful treatment options have emerged in current times. Whatever be the most suitable treatment for your skin, it is essential to keep your face and affected areas protected from the sun during and after the treatment. This means when you’re hitting outdoors, or even when inside, you should always wear sunscreen. And this habit must be maintained even after the treatment so as to ensure the problems do not re-occur. Sunscreen will protect your skin against UV rays, a common trigger for melasma that makes hyperpigmentation darker.

Other recommendations include avoiding the use of over-the-counter creams, face washes, and creams that may be an irritant for your skin as this may worsen melasma.

Here are some common melasma treatment methods that dermatologists recommend:

Hydroquinone:

Hydroquinones help in reducing pigmentation due to melasma. They act by inhibiting an enzyme called tyrosinase that is essential for the production of melanin. It is considered a standard treatment for melasma.

Hydroquinone is a lightening or depigmenting topical agent which is available in cream, lotion, gel, or liquid forms. However, it can cause the darkening of skin with overuse at high concentrations for a prolonged period. So should be taken only after a prescription from a dermatologist.

Who should try this?

If used in combination with other agents, its efficiency can further be enhanced. After proper assessment of the skin and diagnosis of the condition, the patient can be started on hydroquinone to treat melasma.

Retinoids :

Retinoids resolve melasma by increasing skin cell turnover and allow fresh cells to form quickly. Tretinoin is the commonly used derivative and is even available in combination with hydroquinone or azelaic acid. It may lead to mild side effects like peeling, dry skin, and irritation.

Who should try this?

This melasma treatment in Pune is great for patients who have melasma on their face, and want to lighten the pigmentation.

Other topical medications:

A range of creams is available for skin lightening. These creams don’t bleach the skin but instead, act on the pigment-producing cells that reduce the darkening of the skin. The most common compounds in these creams are kojic acid, glycolic acid, Azelaic acid, Arbutin, Vitamin C, and Niacinamide. Tranexamic acid, a procoagulant agent, is another popular medication that is widely used in the treatment of melasma. Its topical (and oral) formulations have shown good results. Remember, the effect of these topical agents is not permanent and requires at least three months to show results. Always wear sunscreen over these creams before stepping out.

Who should try this?

Topical medication is required in all patients with melasma. However, its strength, duration, and choice of topical and oral agents vary, depending on the type and depth of melasma in patients. Those with deeper pigmentation usually require a combination of other treatments in addition to oral and topical medications.

Chemical peels:

Chemicals – which are derived from natural sources like fruits, almonds, and sour milk – are used to exfoliate the superficial layers of the skin. They also help reduce the pigment in the upper layers of the epidermis. The degree of pigmentation decides the concentration of the acid and the number of sessions required. Chemical peeling may cause a few side effects such as irritation, redness, and peeling in a few individuals. (Such side-effects can be minimized or avoided if the procedure is done by a trained and experienced professional.) In the case of deeper peels, you will also need to make an allowance for recovery time after the procedure. The dermatologist will choose the type and strength of the chemical peel best suited to the individual's skin type. Only dermatologists must administer Chemical peels.

Who should try this?

Chemical peels are suitable for candidates who want to improve their epidermal hyperpigmentation. Various peels like glycolic acid, Trichloroacetic acid peel, Retinoic acid peel, or combination peels are used in treating melasma.

It’s worth noting that chemical peels should ideally be used in combination with other treatment options for the faster and better clearance of melasma.

Microdermabrasion:

This non-invasive, non-chemical method of exfoliation uses vacuum suction and abrasive material. Microdermabrasion is usually used in combination with other methods of treatment for better results.

Who should try this?

This treatment is suitable for candidates who are looking to reduce the appearance of fine lines, tanning, and hyperpigmentation that occurs due to melasma, which itself is a result of hormonal changes, sun exposure, and several other factors.

Laser therapy:

Different types of potent lasers have been used for the treatment of melasma. These include the Q-switched NdYAG laser. Though they are one of the most effective forms of treatment for melasma with good results, the results have not been consistent. Treatment for melasma with lasers requires skilled and qualified doctors who may decide to couple the treatment with other procedures and creams for maximum effect. The cost of laser treatment for melasma depends on several factors. It is advisable to consult your specialist and understand the best treatment plan for you, which will then decide the cost of the treatment.

Who should try this?

Q switch NdYAG 1064 nm laser for melasma is best suited for people with a dusky complexion, but it’s not recommended as monotherapy. The treatment has to be combined with other procedures like peels and oral medicines for the best results.

Sun protection: Sun protection is one of the most important aspects of the treatment of melasma. Always wear sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 35. The sunscreen should be broad-spectrum, meaning it should offer protection against UV-A and UV-B radiation from the sun. Apply sunscreen at least fifteen minutes before you leave your house and re-apply every two to three hours. Sunscreens can be applied over any topical medication or creams.

One way to speed up your melasma recovery process is to have sufficient sun protection during the process. You have to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen, whenever you step out – even on cloudy days. The sunscreen must contain UVA and UVB blocking agents like zinc or titanium dioxide. Patients who want to reduce the appearance of their melasma should take on various methods of sun protection; this includes avoiding sun exposure, as much as possible; especially, during the peak hours of the day. Wear a hat, cover your arms and chest with sun-protective clothes, and seek shade whenever possible.

Do’s & Don'ts for Preventing Melasma

DO: Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen
DO: Use physical sun protection like scarves, jackets, and hats.
DO: Follow a regular skincare routine.

DON’T: Leave the house without sun protection
DON’T: Spend too much time in the heat, saunas, or steam rooms.
DON’T: Take any medication without consulting your doctor

DON’T: Continuing medication for longer period than prescribed by the doctor

Melasma laser treatment cost in Pune:

The average melasma laser treatment cost is between Rs 5,000 to 15,000. However, the cost depends on the severity of your melasma condition, your skin type, and the treatment you choose.

Why choose ClearSkin for Melasma Treatment in Pune?

Clear Skin provides specialized melasma treatment options with the help of a team of qualified dermatologists and the latest technology. Combined treatment plans ensure permanent solutions for your skin problems with advice and follow-up care to maintain your complexion. Clearskin guarantees a lower cost of treatment for melasma with the best available solutions.

Our in-house team of highly experienced dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons use top-of-the-line FDA-approved equipment and holistic treatment modalities to help treat even the most complex skin conditions.