What are the clinical features of Melasma?

Melasma presents as macules (freckle-like spots) and larger flat brown patches. These are found on both sides of the face and have an irregular border. There are several distinct patterns.
 Centrofacial pattern: forehead, cheeks, nose and upper lips
 Malar pattern: cheeks and nose
 Lateral cheek pattern
 Mandibular pattern: jawline 
 Reddened or inflamed forms of melasma (also called erythrosis pigmentosa faciei)
 Poikiloderma of Civatte: reddened, photoaging changes seen on the sides of the neck, mostly affecting patients older than 50 years
 Brachial type of melasma affecting shoulders and upper arms (also called acquired brachial cutaneous dyschromatosis).
Melasma is sometimes separated into epidermal (skin surface), dermal (deeper) and mixed types.

What causes Melasma?

The pigmentation is due to overproduction of melanin by the pigment cells, melanocytes, which is taken up by the keratinocytes (epidermal melanosis) and/or deposited in the dermis (dermal melanosis). There is a geneticpredisposition 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
 Pregnancy
 Hormone treatments
 Certain medications, scented or deodorant soaps, toiletries and cosmetics
 Hypothyroidism

Benefits of Skin resurfacing?

Crepey, loose, damaged or scarred skin can be a problem of the past with Duquessa’s laser skin resurfacing treatment. Whether you have Melasma (pigmentation from hormonal changes) freckles, acne scars or even stretch marks, laser skin resurfacing can drastically improve the look and texture of your skin without risky surgery.

*Fractional treatment is for plumping up fine lines, stimulation of collagen and elastin and increased cell turnover to aid with exfoliation. Minimum down time is 48 hours, mild sunburn feeling may occur post treatment. 

Duquessa Skin Sanctuary is available for confidential treatments via consultation on 03 9388 9500 or email info@duquessa.com.au