Melasma Treatment NYC

Melasma is a skin disease which causes brown skin discoloration on the face. It is commonly referred to as the "mask of pregnancy" due to its prevalence among pregnant women.

The affected areas of the face typically include: above the upper lip, cheeks, forehead, chin and nose. It is usually seen in a symmetrical distribution.

There are three distinct variants of melasma; epidermal melasma, dermal melasma, and mixed melasma. Epidermal melasma exhibits a positive response to treatment, while dermal melasma does not because the pigment is deeper in the skin. On the other hand, mixed melasma, which combines superficial and deep elements, displays a moderate responsiveness to treatment.

The easiest method to find out if you have melasma is to see a dermatologist, like Dr. Debra Jaliman in New York City, for a consultation. With years of expertise, Dr. Jaliman is a highly recognized board-certified dermatologist who has treated patients worldwide with the most cutting-edge non-invasive melasma treatments. Upon physical examination, a skilled physician can usually identify your melasma by examining the distribution and features of the darker skin. Besides identifying the hyperpigmentation, Dr. Jaliman may suggest a customized set of in-office treatments and skincare products tailored to your specific skin conditions and overall aesthetic objectives.

Yes, melasma can run in families. If your family members have it, you may be more likely to develop it.

Even while sun exposure and hormones are the main causes of melasma, various epidemiological research has revealed that hereditary factors also play a role in the development of melasma. Almost half of female melasma patients indicate that they have a family member with a skin ailment. Melasma is a genetic skin condition that many individuals battle with. It has been documented to run in families. Patients with darker-hued Fitzpatrick skin types are more prone to melasma than those with lighter skin types, and women are far more likely than males to acquire melasma. No single causative element causes melasma; several factors contribute to its appearance, including genetics.

Melasma is just skin discoloration at the affected site. It is flat and not raised. There is no itching, burning, stinging, or pain associated with it.

Melasma can be diagnosed by a board-certified dermatologist through a simple visual examination, without the need for any specialized tests.

Melasma can sometimes resemble other skin conditions, which is why it’s important not to self-diagnose dark patches on the face or body. While melasma is a harmless pigmentation disorder, it can be difficult to distinguish from more serious concerns like skin cancer or melanoma—especially if you’re unsure what to look for.

Any new or changing brown or dark-colored spots, especially those with irregular borders, varying colors, or that itch or bleed, should always be evaluated by a board-certified dermatologist. If you notice a spot that looks unusual or concerning, it’s essential to schedule a professional evaluation. Dr. Jaliman can carefully examine the area to rule out skin cancer and recommend the most appropriate treatment for hyperpigmentation if melasma is confirmed.

Preventative treatment is one of the finest melasma treatments because it may be a challenging skin issue. The mainstay of preventive treatment is usually reducing sun exposure and stopping the use of any medications and skincare products that might aggravate the condition of melasma. These preventive methods may help stop the onset of sun spots, age spots, and other hyperpigmentation-related conditions, including melasma. Dr. Jaliman advises using daily broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of 50 or higher. Shielding the skin against the sun's damaging UV rays is the most excellent approach to avoid the development of undesirable pigmentation, signs of early aging, and skin cancer.

The best treatment for undesired melasma or hyperpigmentation on the skin is frequently a special mix of topical skincare products and in-office procedures. To properly and successfully treat your melasma, Dr. Jaliman takes the time to create a personalized treatment plan that includes non-invasive procedures and specialist skincare routines to lessen the appearance of the melasma and stop any future hyperpigmentation. When you engage with Dr. Jaliman, she will thoroughly review your medical history, analyze your current skin condition, and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific requirements and goals.

A variety of therapy approaches can address the appearance of melasma. Dr. Jaliman loves using Cosmelan peel treatments, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, topical skin lightening solutions, and microneedling using depigmentation serums to treat dark spots on the skin caused by melasma. Ultimately, your skin tone, skin type, and the sort of melasma you have will determine your best course of action. Melasma falls into three distinct categories: mixed, epidermal, and dermal.

The depth of the pigment was once measured using black light and a diagnostic procedure known as the Wood's lamp examination technique. Dr. Jaliman can diagnose melasma solely by clinical evaluation; no such lamp is needed to identify what form of melasma a patient suffers. The pigment in epidermal melasma cases is found in the epidermis, the skin's outermost layer. The dermis, or middle layer of the skin, is where the extra pigment is found in cases of dermal melasma. The pigment is present in both dermal and epidermal melasma in mixed melasma, the most prevalent type. Dr. Jaliman takes the necessary time to get to know you, your particular skin difficulties, your family history, and your cosmetic objectives to create a treatment plan that will best meet your needs and provide you with long-lasting, beautiful, clear skin.

Topical skin products, such as creams, serums, and pads can effectively treat melasma. These products contain prescription-strength ingredients like azelaic acid, Niacinamide, retinol, hydroquinone, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, vitamin C, citric acid, retinoids, and tranexamic acid. The product formulations are creams, serums, and pads. A personalized skincare routine is developed for each individual patient based on their skin type. Pregnant women can use some of these products but not all. Shipping is available for these products, and we take orders from anywhere across the continental United States. Additionally, there is also special makeup that can match the patient's skin color to conceal the melasma while it is being treated.

Ingredients such as azeleic acid, vitamin C and kojic acid are safe and effective. Dr.Jaliman has developed products containing these ingredients.

Tri-Luma cream is a safe and effective prescription medication that Dr. Jaliman and many dermatologists use it in their practice, to treat melasma. It contains an anti-inflammatory, 4% hydroquinone, and a retinoid. It is used every night to treat melasma and is FDA-approved to reduce the appearance of dark spots associated with melasma. Improvement in the appearance of the skin may take 4–8 weeks. Occasionally, a person may get irritation from the ingredient hydroquinone and develop some inflammation in their skin (dermatitis). This is more likely with a sensitive-skinned individual or a person with eczema or other skin conditions. It can easily be treated with an OTC hydrocortisone cream.

Dr. Jaliman may recommend the topical retinoid cream tretinoin (Tretinoin or Retin-A) as a treatment for hyperpigmentation. Since topical steroid creams may thin the skin, corticosteroids should only be used for a short period of time. Tretinoin, which is derived from vitamin A, helps accelerate the turnover of skin cells. This process helps to shed dark, discolored, and dead skin cells, while also promoting the growth of new, healthy skin cells. Make sure to use a mild cleanser with this treatment.

Yes, hydroquinone is considered one of the most effective topical treatments for melasma. It works by lightening the skin through the inhibition of melanin production. Dr. Jaliman often prescribes a custom triple-action cream that combines hydroquinone with other ingredients like tretinoin to enhance results. For best outcomes, it should be used under the guidance of a dermatologist and always paired with daily sun protection to prevent further pigmentation.

If topical prescription treatments are ineffective, there are other options available for treating melasma. Dermatologists can perform a combination of procedures such as microdermabrasion, or a light chemical peel using glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acid. These treatments can cause very light shedding of dead skin cells in the upper layers of the skin. They can improve the texture and overall appearance of the skin with little to no downtime. This is a nice addition to the other treatments which have more sophisticated technology. You will notice changes in your skin after a few sessions.

Microdermabrasion employs a handpiece with a diamond tip, and effectively exfoliates the skin, which makes it an effective method to improve melasma. This non-invasive and gentle procedure eliminates small bumps and imperfections and aids in achieving a smoother complexion. Within a span of 15-20 minutes, it successfully eliminates many of the dead skin cells, many with a darker tone on the skin's surface. The benefits are that it evens skin color and improves the texture of the skin. It requires a series of treatments.

The Revlite laser, a highly effective laser, can be utilized for the treatment of melasma. This laser is safe for individuals with darker skin tones. Multiple sessions, typically six or more, may be required to achieve optimal results. Each patient is unique and requires a different number of treatment sessions. The number of treatments depends on how dark the discoloration is, how deep the pigment is, and the natural color of the skin.

IPL devices have been utilized by certain medical practitioners in other clinics and other doctors for the treatment of melasma. This approach poses a potential risk to the patient and has yielded unsatisfactory outcomes. The application of IPL heats the skin and may exacerbate the condition of melasma. Extensive articles and studies have demonstrated that it can induce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, leading to darker and aggravated pigmentation following treatment.

A Fraxel laser can also be utilized for the treatment of melasma and other sunspots, but it requires a few days of recovery time. During this period, individuals may experience some redness, peeling, inflammation, and swelling. These side effects typically subside within a few days to a week. It does require some aftercare with the application of a thick moisturizer and some ice to minimize swelling. Additionally, multiple treatment sessions scheduled one month apart may be required if this laser is chosen. The added benefits of this laser are its ability to remove sun damage as well as smooth fine lines and wrinkles. So, overall, it is an exceptional laser for facial rejuvenation as it improves pigment, minimizes pores, and stimulates collagen production.

Another laser, known as the Clear & Brilliant Permea, is akin to a mini Fraxel. This laser only necessitates four hours of recovery time. Multiple treatment sessions with this laser can be performed three weeks apart. It helps to even out skin color, improving texture and providing a radiant complexion. It has minimal downtime, making it suitable for individuals with busy lifestyles.

Melasma cannot be cured, but it can be safely and effectively treated, and most people are very content with their outcome. It requires ongoing maintenance as individuals who have had melasma are always at risk of developing it again. It is crucial for them to consistently take strict precautions when exposed to the sun, as even skin color will enhance their beauty.

One kind of treatment for skin resurfacing is a chemical peel. Using a chemical solution, Dr. Jaliman removes the dead, discolored skin cells from the skin's outer layers delicately and efficiently. This chemical exfoliation treatment encourages the turnover of skin cells, clearing clogged pores and correcting discolored skin to show a radiant, healthy complexion. Every patient is unique, and Dr. Jaliman can customize a chemical peel treatment to meet their needs and objectives. It is possible to improve skin texture, minimize the appearance of acne scars or breakouts, and reduce sun damage, wrinkles and fine lines, and melasma, depending on the type and severity of chemical peel employed.

Dr. Jaliman frequently suggests a TCA peel to her patients with sun damage and pigment abnormalities like melasma or hyperpigmentation. TCA peels, or trichloroacetic acid peels, come in various intensities and combinations at her Upper East Side office. In addition to tretinoin and hydroquinone creams, Dr. Jaliman regularly uses chemical peel treatments as part of her patients' melasma therapy regimens. This combo method improves the effects of a chemical peel treatment by exfoliating the skin.

With careful manipulation of the extent and level of treatment, Chemical Peels can be tailored to address certain skin care requirements. Dr. Debra Jaliman, a board-certified dermatologist, has years of experience using chemical peels to give some of the world's most discriminating men and women smooth, clear, and attractive skin. During your appointment, you can talk to Dr. Jaliman about your unique cosmetic goals and skin concerns. Dr. Jaliman will tailor your protocol to your skin type, skin tone, and level of hyperpigmentation while creating your treatment plan.

Treatment results can vary, but it typically takes several weeks to months for noticeable improvement, depending on the type of treatment used.

In some cases, melasma may fade naturally, especially if it is caused by hormonal changes like pregnancy. However, it often requires treatment to resolve fully.

Melasma is a chronic skin condition, but whether it is permanent depends on the cause and how it’s managed. In some cases, melasma can fade on its own—for example, when it’s triggered by pregnancy or birth control pills, it may improve after giving birth or stopping the medication. However, pregnancy-related melasma often becomes long-term and requires treatment to reduce pigmentation.

Melasma typically persists without proper care and sun protection. Most patients find that the dark patches don’t go away on their own and need customized topical treatments, laser therapy, or chemical peels.

It’s also important to choose the right laser treatments. For best results, work with a dermatologist experienced in treating melasma safely.

Yes. To prevent melasma from worsening, it’s important to avoid excessive sun exposure, tanning beds, and products that irritate the skin—such as harsh exfoliants or fragranced skincare. People with melasma should also steer clear of harsh chemicals, which can further darken facial pigmentation. Waxing with hot wax should be avoided, as it may irritate the skin and trigger pigment changes. Scented soaps and skincare products can worsen melasma due to their fragrance, which may cause irritation and lead to further darkening of the skin. A dermatologist can help identify specific triggers and design a routine tailored to your skin type and lifestyle.

Melasma is hormone and sun-related, usually appearing as symmetrical patches. Other pigmentation, like sunspots or acne marks, is caused by damage or inflammation and is often easier to treat.

Research and choose a board-certified dermatologist experienced in treating melasma. Read reviews and testimonials, ask for recommendations, and schedule a consultation to discuss your needs and concerns. If you need a specialist for your melasma treatment, you can trust our state-of-the-art office at Debra Jaliman MD.

Fraxel Dual is a fractional laser that can effectively treat melasma by targeting pigmented areas while minimizing damage to the surrounding skin. Consult a dermatologist to determine if this is a suitable treatment for you.

Yes, both microdermabrasion and chemical peels can help improve the appearance of melasma by exfoliating the skin and promoting skin renewal. However, they should be used carefully and under the guidance of a dermatologist, as aggressive treatments may worsen melasma in some cases.

Yes, both laser resurfacing and microneedling can be effective treatments for melasma. Laser resurfacing helps by targeting pigment and stimulating collagen production, while microneedling improves skin texture and can reduce pigmentation. However, these treatments should be done under the guidance of a dermatologist to ensure they are appropriate for your skin type and melasma severity.

Potential side effects include redness, irritation, and temporary darkening; however, these are usually temporary and can be managed by your dermatologist.

Many treatments are not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks. It's crucial to consult with a doctor for guidance on safe options during pregnancy. Always wear a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30-50 to prevent further pigmentation.

The cost of melasma treatment in New York City varies widely, depending on factors such as the type of procedure and the number of sessions required. Sometimes it can be treated with custom formulated products. It is best to consult with Dr.Debra Jaliman, a melasma specialist.

You can schedule a visit to confirm your diagnosis and discuss treatment options. While insurance may cover the consultation, depending on your plan, most treatments for melasma, like lasers, peels, and prescription products, are considered cosmetic and are not covered. We offer various treatment options to fit different budgets, and we’ll discuss all costs in detail during your visit.