Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. -Laser therapy, which uses intense pulsed light to break up the pigment in the skin. The plant-derived ingredient isa natural alternative to retinol (itspeeds up cell turnover for more even-toned skin)thats perfect for skin thats on the sensitive side or anyone who is trying to green-ify their beauty routine. Dr. Dray is a practicing dermatologist and YouTube content creator with over 700k subscribers to her channel, where she discusses skincare, health and wellness, and her life. Hyperpigmentation is a broad term referring to any darkening of the skin, of which melasma is one form, explains New York City board-certified dermatologist Dr. Kenneth Howe. The rays that cause pigmentation and melasma even come through our home windows.Baton Rouge, LA dermatologist Ann C. Zedlitz, MD, At NewBeauty, we get the most trusted information from the beauty authority delivered right to your inbox, Find a NewBeauty "Top Beauty Doctor" Near you, Get trusted information from the beauty authority delivered right to your inbox. Her research at the Wellman Center for Photomedicine at MGH is focused on the development of novel therapies for skin disorders. Strict sun protection is the mainstay of any melasma treatment regimen. Treatment options include topical creams and lasers. The key point in management of melasma is to use sun protection all the time, and to avoid other triggers such as hormonal medications when possible. Mineral Sheer Screen is a zinc oxide sunscreen that delivers broad-spectrum SPF 30 and helps filter blue light. New York dermatologistJulie Russak, MD, SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 50($36). Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown or gray patches on the face. The gentle ingredient is known to fade discoloration from dark spots, scarring, and melasmaand it also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, says Dr. Marchbein. One theory is that when estrogen levels are low, the body produces more melanin, which can lead to hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin). If youre concerned about the appearance of your skin, talk to your doctor about treatment options. Sun protection is the only way to prevent it from worsening and recurring, once you do have it under control, says Dr. Howe. It usually occurs in women, but it can affect men and women of any age. Munavalli, Doris Day MD Vitamin E-Ssential Sunscreen($48), For my patients with melasma, I recommend using a mineral, physical sunscreen like these four of my favorites rather than one that is absorbed into the skin. Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. There are a number of treatments available for melasma, but finding the right one can take time. Classic aviators are perhaps the biggest offenders here. Melasma is caused not only by ultraviolet light but also by infrared radiation and visible light, explains Dr. Howe. Retinoids. Experts arent entirely sure. This Dark-Spot Corrector with Glycolic Acid, This Dark-Spot Corrector With Niacinamide, 15 Dark-Spot Correctors for Removing Hyperpigmentation, Sunspots, Melasma, and More, TikTok Loves These Wacky Water-Catching Bracelets, Your Privacy Choices: Opt Out of Sale/Targeted Ads. It does have some pigment to it, though its not necessarily tinted; the added color simply works to ensure theres no chalky residue left behind. NewBeauty uses cookies for various reasons, including to analyze In addition, frequent relapses are common. The fastest way to fade stubborn dark spots and patches from UV exposure (without making a trip to a derm office)? However, there are a few things to keep in mind. I know this all to well: In my mid-20s I lived in South Florida and my melasma was the worst its ever beenit literally looked like I had dirt on my faceand I couldnt go anywhere without a thick layer of foundation and concealer. skinbetter science sunbetter Advanced Mineral Protection Tone Smart SPF 75($75), In reality, any sunscreen that someone uses will be one of the most important steps someone can take for their melasma, but my go-to is a physical sunscreen. 5 SKIN LIGHTENING TREATMENTS TO FADE MELASMA WITHOUT HYDROQUINONE. Peso Tiempo Calidad Subido; 51.25 MB: 21:52: 320 kbps: Mixed Makeup: Peso Tiempo Calidad Subido; 36.68 MB: 15:39: 320 kbps: Dr Dray: . There are treatments available that can help lighten the affected areas of skin and prevent new patches from forming. Treatment for melasma includes topical creams, laser therapy, and chemical peels. If you suffer frommelasma, its so important that you are using sunscreens that containphysicalblocking agents, which reflect the sun. The higher the dose of visible light our skin receives, the more the skin darkens, adds Dr. Geraghty. This is a mineral power containing both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that can be applied throughout the day as needed on top of sunscreen and makeup. Its hydrating and helps to cover flaws if you are dealing with pigment. Retinoids. I've just gotten into YouTube videos and have been loving the dermatologists skin care tips! Segal, ISDIN Eryfotona Actinica is an SPF 50+ targeted for actinic damage, but I also recommend it for my melasma patients because it contains repair enzymes that help repair damage caused by the sun. We know that melasma is exacerbated by the sun, so this product helps protect and repair at the same time. Dr. .css-tjvzc4{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;text-decoration-thickness:0.0625rem;text-decoration-color:inherit;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:inherit;-webkit-transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;border-bottom:thin solid #6F6F6F;}.css-tjvzc4:hover{color:#595959;text-decoration-color:border-link-body-hover;}Dark spots and hyperpigmentation can happen for a bunch of different reasons, including UV exposure, inflammation (from skin traumas like acne or severe rashes), heat, and hormones, says dermatologist Shari Marchbein, MD. Waxing. And finally, a small percentage of women may find that their melasma actually gets worse after menopause. If youre one of the millions of Americans suffering from melasma, you know how frustrating this condition can be. There are several treatments available for melasma, including topical creams and laser therapy. As we age, we lose melanocytes and as a result, our skin becomes lighter. Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown or gray patches on the face. There are three main types of melasma: chloasma, epidermal melasma, and dermal melasma. Laser therapy uses intense pulsed light to break up the melanin that causes the discoloration. It also works equally well on face and body. There is no cure for melasma, but there are treatments that can help lighten the dark patches. The hormone-melasma connection is similarly complex, but as board-certified Medford, Oregon, dermatologist Dr. Laurel Geraghty summarizes, our melanocytes have their own estrogen receptors and are prompted to produce more pigment if there are a lot of hormones circulating in the body. Visible light can stimulate enzymes involved in the melanin production process, says Dr. Mitalee Christman, a board-certified dermatologist in Boston. It may be the ultimate beauty irony: even the gold-standard stuff derms rely on to fade melasma can spark pigment synthesis and darken persistent patches. Curbing nearsightedness in children: Can outdoor time help? The weight and rubbing of metal rims on skin can also take its toll. Birth control pills may also trigger the condition. Layer it over moisturizer in the morning or use it to reapply sun protection throughout the day. Another treatment option for melasma is azelaic acid. This SPF product features vitamin C, one of the best ingredients for improving the appearance of hyperpigmentation, including melasma. It is oil-free, fragrance-free and noncomedogenic, which is great for any skin type, even those with sensitive and acne-prone skin. Dr. Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown or gray patches on the face. The good news is that melasma usually fades after pregnancy and doesnt pose any health risks. Since theres no forever cure for melasma, the best you can do is keep excess pigment in checkwhich means knowing your triggers, or the things that cause the condition to flare. Sign up now and get a FREE copy of theBest Diets for Cognitive Fitness. I recommend only physical sunscreens for my melasma patients. And per the anti-aging point, it also boasts the brands proprietary TriHex technology, which helps to clear out damaged collagen and elastin and promote the production of healthy, new versions of the proteins. Sun protection is arguably the single most important part of melasma care. If youre looking for a more natural approach to treating your melasma, consider using aloe vera gel or lemon juice diluted with water applied to the affected area twice daily. She quickly realized people were interested in skincare information, and as a dermatologist, saw . Eczema. Some people may start to see signs of the condition in their twenties, while others may not notice any discoloration until they are much older. How to use DIFFERIN DARK SPOT CORRECTING SERUM| Dr Dray. Skin lighteners other than hydroquinone can be used in combination with retinoids to maintain the results, and hydroquinone therapy may be used intermittently if needed. "There's a fuzzy line between [the two]," she adds. Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown or gray patches on the face. Its most common in women and often occurs during pregnancy or when taking certain types of birth control pills. Chemical peels use substances like glycolic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids, and salicylic acid to remove the superficial layer of the skin that contains excess pigment in melasma patients. There is no definitive answer to how early melasma can develop. Sun exposure can make melasma worse and it is often seen in people who spend a lot of time outdoors without adequate sun protection. It wont get rid of it, but it will keep it from getting worseand, oftentimes, from even occurring in the first place. The statements made about specific products throughout this video are not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. There is no cure for melasma, but there are treatments that can help lighten the dark patches. These include medications such as hydroquinone, azelaic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide, cysteamine, rucinol, and tranexamic acid. For the most part she still is, but nowadays she has more sponsored content (hydrogel eye patches) which seem to contradict her previous stance. Another hero skincare ingredient when it comes to minimizing dark spots? One common change is the development of melasma, also called the mask of pregnancy when it occurs in pregnant women. Though there is still some mystery around melasma, we do know that exposure to UV plays a large role in its formation. The most commonly used treatments for melasma are skin lightening medications that are applied topically. So, youve got a smattering of discoloration and dark spots on your face. Thats why we appreciate this more inclusive pick, which relies on zinc oxide for protective purposes and comes in an extensive range of 14 shades. A super-potent form ofvitamin CcalledL-ascorbic acid(try it in this dark-spot corrector from BeautyStat)helps address dark spots in two ways: It inhibits pigment production to prevent new dark spots from formingand it fadespigment to lighten your existing darkspots, says Dr. Marchbein. I recommend mineral-based sunscreens that are tinted to block ultraviolet light and visible light, and newer formulations have been developed for all skin types and complexions. I love Revision Intellishade Original because it is SPF 45, blends in to most skin types, and can replace your makeupit leaves the skin glowy and even. Houston dermatologist Jennifer Segal, MD, Avne High Protection Tinted Compact SPF 50 ($38), I like this one because it is hypoallergenic, has the physical blocks neededtitanium dioxide and zinc oxideand it covers your skin beautifully! Melasma is more common in women than men, and often occurs during pregnancy or when taking certain hormone medications. Melasma is a skin disorder that causes brown or gray patches on the face, typically on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin. Though it can affect anyone, melasma is most common in women and typically occurs during pregnancy or menopause. Information on this Youtube channel should not be considered as a substitute for advice from a healthcare professional. Links contain commissionable affiliate links, meaning I earn a commission if you make a purchase from a link. Just look for a dark-spot-correcting serum with any combination of skin-brightening ingredients, like retinol, AHAs, hydroquinone, vitamin C, and kojic acid, says Dr. Marchbein. This also has antioxidants to further protect skin from environmental free radicals. Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown or gray patches on the face. The answer is yes, menopause can trigger melasma. Daily Dose Vitamin C+ SPF 40 Serum($46). Plus, get a FREE copy of the Best Diets for Cognitive Fitness. If you have any family members with melasma, you may be more likely to develop it yourself. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. What we feel as heat is actually the infrared (IR) energy given off by the sun, fires, radiators, even our own skin. Melasma is a skin condition that results in patches of dark skin on the face. MDSolarSciences Mineral Tinted Creme SPF 30, SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50, The Ultimate Guide to Understanding and Treating Melasma, The Best At-Home Skin Devices Doctors Recommend Using After an In-Office Treatment, The Best New Clinically Proven Skin-Care Launches of 2023, Can Masseter Botox Lead to Jowling? Finally lets not forget that protective eyewear, hats and UPF clothing are fantastic and should be a priority for anyone wanting more sun protection, but are especially important for those suffering from melasma. Bloomfield Hills, MI dermatologistLinda C. Honet, MD, SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 30($60), Another great option for those who have experienced melasma already is the SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense Sunscreen SPF 30. Related: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding and Treating Melasma. Genetically speaking, melasma predominantly affects people of color, whose melanocytes, or pigment-producing cells, are more active, says board-certified New York City dermatologist Dr. Michele Green. Melasma is a condition that causes brown or gray patches on the skin, typically on the face. It will for sure end up sitting idly unused on the bathroom countertop! These medications work by reducing pigment production and inflammation, and by reducing excess blood vessels in the skin that contribute to melasma. Melanin is what gives our skin its color. If you want to maintain your natural complexion, be sure to wear sunscreen and avoid excessive sun exposure. A few to try: MDSolarSciences Mineral Tinted Creme SPF 30, $32; Alastin HydraTint Pro Mineral SPF 36, $55; SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense SPF 50, $34. The good news is that melasma usually improves with time and treatment. Masks. Oral medications, including tranexamic acid, are usually considered in more severe melasma cases. There may be times when you think youve won the battle, only to have your foe come roaring right back. Mineral Sheerscreen SPF 30($38). Dr. Mariwalla says this is another great choice for daily use, an entirely mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, for broad-spectrum SPF 50 protection. Another study found that a combination of oral nutrients, including niacinamide, zinc, folic acid, selenium, and vitamins C and E improved the severity of melasma in women taking oral contraceptives (2). It treats, hides and prevents melasma simultaneously. Fresno, CA dermatologist Kathleen Behr, MD, La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 ($37), I like physical sunscreens because withmelasma,you need to use a sunscreen daily to help treat and preventit. An elegant, effective sunscreen will improve compliance and everyday use, which are essential to any skin-care regimen. While we do connect people with vetted, board-certified doctors, we dont provide medical consultations, diagnosis, or advice. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. Those who suffer frommelasmaare particularly prone to flaring from blue light. Pittsburgh dermatologist Lindsey Zubritsky, MD, Revision Skincare Intellishade Original ($80). As we age, our skin goes through a lot of changes. I am lately leaning more and more toward physical sunscreens for myself as I get older and because I also suffer from melasma. Dr. Dray was an avid YouTube watcher before starting her channel. Melasma is very difficult to treat, often requiring many time-consuming and costly treatments. Dont freak. If you are concerned about melasma, talk to your doctor or dermatologist about your treatment options. Azelaic acid helps to reduce inflammation and pigmentation in the skin. Oil- and fragrance-free, its a good option not only for those dealing with hyperpigmentation but also anyone with acne. TL;DR: its great for all skin types. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Mineral Tinted Sunscreen for Face SPF 50 ($34) Dr. Mariwalla loves using this titanium dioxide-based formula every morning, and recommends it for anyone dealing with melasma or hyperpigmentation. 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