9323 Pinecroft Dr Suite 202 The Woodlands, TX 77380
Even Skin Tone Starts Here
Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by dark, discolored patches, usually on the face. It often develops due to hormonal changes, sun exposure, or genetics, and can affect both men and women, though it is more common in women. At Rêve Dermatology and Aesthetics, we offer advanced treatment options designed to lighten dark spots and even out your skin tone. Whether you're looking to reduce melasma's appearance or prevent future flare-ups, our team is here to help you achieve a clearer, more radiant complexion.
What Causes Melasma?
The main cause of melasma is an overproduction of melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color), which leads to dark spots on the skin. Hormonal changes are one of the biggest contributors, especially in women who are pregnant or taking birth control pills. Sun exposure also plays a significant role in worsening melasma, as UV rays can trigger the production of melanin. Genetics can also contribute, as melasma tends to run in families. While melasma is not a serious health condition, it can be persistent and sometimes challenging to treat.
Common Symptoms of Melasma
The most noticeable symptom of melasma is the appearance of dark, irregularly shaped patches on the skin, which are typically brown or grayish-brown. These patches are most often found on the face, particularly on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and chin. The condition tends to be more noticeable in people with darker skin tones. The patches may be more pronounced with sun exposure, especially if sun protection is not consistently used.
How is Melasma Diagnosed?
Diagnosing melasma typically involves a physical examination of the skin. During your consultation at Rêve Dermatology and Aesthetics, we’ll carefully examine the affected areas to confirm whether melasma is the cause of the discoloration. If needed, we may also inquire about your medical history, such as hormonal treatments or pregnancy, and any recent sun exposure. In rare cases, a skin biopsy or additional tests may be performed to rule out other skin conditions.
Treatment for Melasma
There are several effective treatments for melasma, and the choice of treatment depends on the severity and location of the dark patches. Here are some of the most common treatment options we offer:
- Topical Treatments: Prescription creams, gels, and lotions that help to lighten dark spots and even out the skin tone. These may include ingredients like hydroquinone, retinoids, or kojic acid, which target melanin production and promote skin lightening.
- Dermapen® Microneedling: This procedure uses tiny needles to create micro-injuries in the skin, stimulating collagen production and allowing better absorption of topical treatments. It can help reduce the appearance of dark spots and improve skin texture.
- Microdermabrasion: A gentle exfoliation technique that removes the outer layer of dead skin cells, helping to lighten dark spots and promote a smoother, brighter complexion.
- Chemical Peels: We use mild chemical exfoliants to peel away the top layers of skin, which helps remove the discolored skin cells and encourage the growth of fresh, healthy skin.
- Fractional Lasers: Fractional laser treatments target melanin directly, breaking up dark pigmentation and stimulating collagen production for smoother, more even skin.
- Intense Pulsed Light (IPL): Unlike lasers, IPL uses BroadBand Light™ to target pigment in the skin, which means the treatment is gentler with a quicker recovery time. IPL is effective for reducing dark spots and improving skin texture, with minimal downtime.
If melasma is affecting your skin and confidence, we’re here to help. At Rêve Dermatology and Aesthetics, we provide expert care and advanced treatments designed to lighten dark spots and give you a more even skin tone. Let us help you regain a bright, clear complexion and restore your confidence!