Melasma in Flemington & Hillsborough, NJ

Who Gets Melasma?

Melasma is a condition that is more prevalent in certain populations. Melasma is more common in women and in people that tan well or have natural brown skin compared with those who have fair skin.

25% of females are affected while only 5% of males are affected with Melasma (percentages vary based on population studied). Melasma typically begins to affect individuals between the age of 20 and 40 years, but can also begin in childhood or not until the forties of fifties.

What Causes Melasma?

The cause of melasma is complex. The pigmentation is due to overproduction of melanin by the pigment cells, melanocytes, which are taken up by the keratinocytes (epidermal melanosis) and/or deposited in the dermis (dermal melanosis, melanophages). There is a genetic predisposition to melasma, with at least one-third of patients reporting other family members to be affected. In most people, melasma is a chronic disorder.

Known triggers for melasma include:

• Sun exposure and sun damage—this is the most important avoidable risk factor
• Pregnancy—in affected women, the pigment often fades a few months after delivery
• Hormone treatments—oral contraceptive pills hormone replacement,
• Certain medications
• Hypothyroidism

Melasma commonly arises in healthy, non-pregnant adults. Lifelong sun exposure causes deposition of pigment within the dermis and this often persists long-term. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UVR) deepens the pigmentation because it activates the melanocytes to produce more melanin.

What is the Treatment of Melasma?

Melasma can be very slow to respond to treatment, especially if it has been present for a long time. At Advanced Medical Spa & Laser Center we invite you for a complimentary consultation with our highly skilled skin care specialist for personalized treatment plan.