Ways to treat melasma

Melasma is a condition of increased pigmentation on the cheeks, especially the cheekbones. Dark patches appear on the cheekbones due to an increase in melanin pigment. Melasma is more common in women than in men, usually after age 30, during pregnancy and postpartum, on locations such as the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead.

There are many causes of melasma such as sun exposure, genetics, hormonal changes, or other causes such as improper use of cosmetics, poor quality, psychological stress, birth regimen. Unscientific activities… can also cause melasma.

Depending on the level and cause of melasma, there are different treatment methods such as topical medications, skin peels, lasers,… according to master, doctor Ta Quoc Hung, Department of Aesthetics, University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital. Ho Chi Minh City.

Among them, the most classic method is to apply medicine containing active ingredients that inhibit melanin formation, helping to inhibit the formation of new dark spots and brighten the skin.

Skin peels with glycolic acid, alpha hydroxy acid and salicylic acid help remove the top layer of dark skin containing excess pigment, promoting the regeneration of new, more even, brighter skin. However, these methods only apply to people with shallow melasma, on the outer surface. In the case of deep internal melasma, doctors must use lasers.

Laser radiation destroys melanin, helping to fade melasma without affecting the surrounding normal skin. The laser also stimulates the growth of collagen and elastin under the skin to rejuvenate the skin, fade dark spots, even out skin tone, and brighten skin.

Currently, picosecond laser is the preferred method of treating melasma thanks to its selective pigment destruction mechanism. This method delivers extremely short pulses of laser energy to target melanin, the pigment that causes dark areas in melasma. These short pulses break melanin particles into small pieces more effectively than traditional lasers, making it easier for the body to remove the pigment. Dr. Hung said this method is a trend and is chosen for use in many hospitals around the world.

Mr. Hoang Quang Phong, Vice President of the VCCI Federation of Commerce and Industry, said that this method and many updated dermatological treatment regimens and the latest cosmetic trends will be reported by doctors and experts. Presentation at the Beauty Summit 2024 Exhibition in Hanoi, taking place from December 5-6. This is also an opportunity for doctors and nurses to exchange expertise, and is also a space for beauty establishments to strengthen connections. Within the framework of the exhibition, the Central Dermatology Hospital also organized a scientific conference on the topic of development trends in dermatological treatment regimens and cosmetic technology. In particular, predicting trends in the development of treatment regimens and cosmetic technology; improvements in scar treatment; Applying technology in the treatment of pigmentation disorders…