Melasma

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Causes: Genetic Predisposition, Pregnancy, Birth Control Pills, Hormone Pills, Progesterone, Hormone Replacement Therapy.

Condition overview:
Melasma is light to dark brown, irregular, patchy pigmentation of the face. It is slow to develop and most commonly affects women with darker skin types. There are different types of melasma:

• Superficial (epidermal)
• Deeper Type (dermal)
• Combination of Both Types 

At Pima Dermatology, a special light is used to check the face in an attempt to ascertain the depth and degree of the melasma.  This helps us to choose the right treatment for our patient.

Treatments:

• Bleaching Agents – With active ingredients in the primary bleaching agents that include: Hydroquinone, Kojic Acid, and Azelaic Acid (Azelex, or Finevin)
• Retinoids– Retin-A, Renova, Differin, Tazorac
• Glycolic Acids in the form of cleansers, lotions, and creams
  
• Chemical and Freshening Peels
• Microdermabrasion
• Laser Treatments