Melasma

Although melasma is not a dangerous condition, many individuals who experience it are unhappy with its appearance, and seek to remove it.

More About Melasma

Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that develops in the skin (mostly in women) and often flares up due to hormonal fluctuations and UV exposure. The condition is characterized by brown or gray patches that appear above the lips, on the cheeks, nose, forehead, chin, and neck.

What Causes Melasma?

Because melasma often occurs during pregnancy, it’s often referred to as the “mask of pregnancy”. The condition tends to develop mostly in those with darker skin tones, such as Middle Eastern and Indian.

Although pregnancy is a main cause of melasma, it can also stem from medications that cause hormone changes, such as birth control pills and hormone replacement tablets. It can also be caused by liver problems, sunlight, and certain cosmetic products.

I recently visited Dr. Lamoureux’s office for a recent skin issue. The atmosphere is very inviting, and in a very short time, the assistant had completed my medical history and Dr. Lamoureux arrived in less than a minute or two. She spent all the time reviewing my situation and answering several questions I had. She is a pleasant person to work with, no pressure, and makes you know she cares. If you are needing a good dermatologist, give the office a call. They took me in as a new patient right away with no prior appointment. I believe you will be pleased!

Treatment for Melasma

We will perform an in-office evaluation to determine if you have melasma, and if our treatments can help. We provide the following procedures for melasma treatment.

Chemical Peels

Because of the mild acid that’s included in chemical peels, they are a very effective treatment for melasma. Chemical peels remove the outermost level of damaged skin, which results in brand-new epidermis that does not have the discolored patches from melasma.

Prescription Therapies

Sometimes all that is needed to treat melasma is a prescription medicine or a combination. Dr. Alissa Lamoureux is a board-certified dermatologist with a deep knowledge of skin conditions. After a thorough medical evaluation, she will be able to determine which prescription will work best for you.

The PiQo4 Laser

The PiQo4™ laser system is excellent for treating deep pigmentation (like melasma). The wavelength and picosecond laser pulses are effective and safe even on darker skin types, and the entire face can be treated in as little as 15 minutes.

Why Choose Skin Dermatology?

What makes Skin Dermatology different than other dermatologic practices is our team’s dedication to providing boutique-style care to every patient. We are committed to caring for every component of your skin—and doing it exceptionally well. Our smart and capable staff are passionate about what they do. We believe in expert-level, boutique-style service that is customized and personal for every patient. Founded and led by double-board certified Dr. Alissa Lamoureux, Skin Dermatology offers medical, surgical and cosmetic dermatology, as well as a full array of aesthetic services. For the same price as a med spa, patients get an unbelievable space, a 5-star experience, a free consultation, and a board-certified dermatologist who can treat over 3,000 skin conditions. To schedule a consultation, contact us today.

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