Understanding melasma

This is a common skin pigmentation irregularity, which also means skin discoloration that happens mainly on the face. This skin issue can be experienced by people irrespective of their gender or race. However, it is very common in people who have a dark skin tone and are mainly between the ages of 20 and 40 years. 

Melasma pigmentation involves patches on the skin which looks very irregular. This issue mainly affects the areas that are completely exposed to harmful UV rays or the sun. However, this skin condition is not contagious, and neither is it connected to any kind of allergies, but it can severely affect how one looks and even hamper their overall confidence and appearance. 

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Know about melasma vs. hyperpigmentation.

The skin cells of a person make a substance which is known as melanin, and it offers color. If you have dark skin, then there is a possibility that you can easily tan and have more melanin. However, if the skin cells are unhealthy, then too much melanin can be produced. Thus, certain skin areas can appear to be darker than others. This entire condition or process is hyperpigmentation.

However, dark patches that appear on your face and neck can be considered to be melasma. The hyperpigmentation on the skin can occur due to reasons like: 

  • Sun exposure 
  • Rashes 
  • Hormonal changes 
  • Blue light
  • Genetics
  • Lack of vitamin D, etc. 

What causes melasma?

There are mainly three causes of melasma: 

Hormonal disturbances

Hormonal changes and melasma can be experienced by a pregnant woman. According to dermatologists, these dark patches are considered chloasma. Also, people who are on hormone replacement therapy or are taking hormone-based medications can even experience melasma. However, this skin condition can be caused by high cortisol levels when you are highly stressed.

Sun exposure

Prolonged or direct exposure to the UV rays can create more melanin production. This can further cause melasma.

Heredity

There are some people who are bound to experience melasma because of their dark skin tone, or it is the same condition that their relatives have.

What are the types of melasma?

Melasma can occur in one or more ways. The type of it mainly depends on the color, border shape, and how it responds to the treatment. Here are points defining the melasma types: 

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  • Epidermal melasma 

This is a type where melasma mainly affects the skin’s top layer, which is called the epidermis. You can witness these patches on your face and they are generally of dark brown color. Also, the shape of the patches is considered to be uniform. 

  • Dermal melasma 

This melasma type is known to attract the deep skin layers known as dermis. They appear to be bluish-gray and sometimes grayish brown with blurry borders. This melasma gets to the deep layers of the skin, resulting in dermatologists offering treatments like microneedling, etc. 

  • Mixed melasma 

This is a very common melasma type and is an amalgamation of epidermal as well as dermal melasma. The patches are a combination of brown, bluish grey, etc., colors. To get over this melasma type, a dermatologist is going to involve treatments like topical creams, chemical peels, and much more. 

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How is melasma diagnosis?

A general doctor can suggest that you see a dermatologist for the proper diagnosis of melasma. Later, with the involvement of black light, the doctor will be able to examine the skin and get to know the skin color. To understand whether you have melasma or not, a biopsy can be conducted. In this process, a tiny piece of your skin is removed so that it can be properly examined. The procedure is completely safe and is carried out to diagnose various other skin conditions. 

In case there are melasma predictions, then biopsy can be conducted and will provide the apt resuls. Also, there can be involvement of the Melasma Area Severity Index to understand the severity of the condition and how to carry out the treatment further. The dermatologist will conduct a proper examination of your skin and will ask you various questions related to the situation. This will allow you to understand everything and get the best treatment, which can help in managing this skin condition. 

What are the different melasma procedures?

In case topical treatments are not worth the shot, then certain melasma procedures can be performed, such as: 

  • Light therapy 

This is an intense light therapy. The exposure to a lot of sun or light from various tools can lead to melasma, but certain lights can also be beneficial in reducing or erasing skin discoloration. 

  • Chemical peel 

A dermatologist can even suggest a chemical peel, which can be beneficial in removing damaged skin. Further, it offers new, smooth, and properly toned skin. 

  • Microneedling 

This is a process where tiny tears are made in the skin. As your skin starts healing, the process offers an even skin tone.

  • Platelet-rich plasma 

Another procedure is platelet-rich plasma, where a small amount of blood is taken from your body. Later, it is put in a specific machine to process it and is then injected back into your skin for an even skin tone. This therapy can be opted for with other issues like hair loss, injuries related to sports, etc. 

How to prevent melasma?

There are various ways and tricks to prevent melasma in the long run, such as: 

  • Wear sun protection or sunblock 

Wearing sunscreen every day, which is SPF 30 or above, is highly essential to protect your skin. Also, it is imperative to wear sun protective clothing when you are planning to go outside the house. 

  • Manage your hormones

For females, it is essential to get in touch with a doctor who can provide oral contraceptives or any other hormone therapy. Getting in touch with the right doctor before conception is essential. Or contacting an endocrinologist can be the right decision when you have hormonal issues. 

  • Opt for a healthy lifestyle. 

Try to have nutritious meals every day. Also, try to keep your body hydrated, and it is imperative to remain stress-free. 

  • Opt for skincare targeting pigmentation. 

This involves skin-lightening products that have vitamin C, kojic acid, and other ingredients. 

Puri Skin Clinic: The right place for your melasma treatment

It is highly essential to treat melasma at the right time. It mainly depends on the skin’s condition and its severity. The treatment can involve anti-melasma peels, topical creams, lasers, and various other things. Choosing Puri Skin Clinic to treat your melasma can be helpful in many ways. We have skilled and professional dermatologists who offer tailored treatments depending on an individual’s skin so that the best outcomes can be experienced. Also, we provide complete details about the treatment involving the melasma treatment cost in Ludhiana, Punjab. With our help, you can achieve healthy, clear, smooth, and glowing skin.

Remarkable Results That Speak Volumes

Why Choose PRP Treatment at Puri Skin Clinic?

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Expert Dermatologist

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Advanced Techniques

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Personalized Care

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Minimally Invasive