Melasma is more prevalent in women and often linked to hormonal changes like pregnancy or birth control use. It forms when pigment-producing cells in the skin (melanocytes) produce too much pigment.
The patches due to melasma typically appear on the cheeks, forehead, bridge of the nose, and above the upper lip. Now, melasma isn’t dangerous or even painful. However, you may want to seek treatment to control melasma as the condition can be distressing due to its appearance.
We created this article to address the frequently asked question; is there a permanent cure for melasma? So, at the end of this page, you should know what works for melasma and what to expect when you begin melasma treatment. Keep reading!
What is the Permanent Cure for Melasma?
Having melasma can be quite frustrating considering how persistent it can be. So, it is natural if you’ve struggled with melasma and now wonder; what is the permanent cure for melasma?
At the time of writing this guide, there isn’t a definitive permanent cure for melasma. The good news is that most cases of melasma actually fade away with time. This is mostly common where there is good protection from UV light that may trigger or worsen melasma.
If you’ve tried UV protection and still haven’t seen encouraging results, we strongly advise that you see a board-certified cosmetic doctor or dermatologist for an assessment and treatment planning. To know for sure what treatment plan is most likely to work for you, a good provider will begin by figuring out what could be causing your melasma.
For example, they will need to determine if it is due to a birth control treatment you’re using, sunlight, genetics, excessive screen time, or the soap you’re using. From here, you may be advised to limit exposure to triggers. If you have melasma, you should avoid the following;
- Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) rays stimulate the production of melanin which further darkens the patches. Opt for physical sunscreens with iron oxides, as they provide broader-spectrum protection and reapply every two hours. This is particularly important when outdoors. Also, wear wide-brimmed hats and seek shade to further protect your skin.
- Tanning Beds and LED Screens: Artificial UV radiation from tanning beds can also stimulate melanocytes. Again, this can worsen your melasma. Avoiding tanning beds, hot baths, saunas, and prolonged exposure to heat sources altogether is essential for managing the condition. Also, blue light from LED screens may contribute to melasma development or exacerbation. So, you will want to as well limit screen time, and use blue light-blocking glasses or screen filters to reduce exposure.
- Irritating Soaps and Cosmetics: Harsh soaps can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause irritation which can worsen your melasma. So if you have melasma, stick to gentle, non-irritating cleansers to cleanse your skin. Some makeup and skincare products also contain ingredients that can aggravate melasma. So look for non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic products to minimize the risk of irritation.
- Hormonal Birth Control and Certain Medications: Certain types of hormonal birth control, especially those containing estrogen and progesterone, can trigger or worsen melasma in susceptible individuals. If you suspect that your birth control is causing melasma, it may help to discuss alternative birth control options with your provider. Importantly, some medications, such as certain antibiotics and antimalarial drugs, can increase sensitivity to UV radiation which too can worsen melasma. If you’re taking any medications and have melasma, consult your healthcare provider for advice.
Other than avoiding triggers, you may also be recommended topical medications to help with melasma. These may include;
- Azelaic Acid: This medication is available in creams, lotions, or gels and is applied twice daily. Azelaic acid is safe for pregnant women and works by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin production to lighten the skin and improve the appearance of melasma.
- Cysteamine: In a small study, cysteamine cream was found to be more effective than a placebo in treating melasma. Cysteamine works by inhibiting melanin production and reducing pigmentation in the skin. It can be applied topically and is generally well-tolerated.
- Hydrocortisone: Hydrocortisone is a topical corticosteroid that helps to fade melasma pigmentation and reduce the risk of dermatitis caused by other agents. It works by reducing inflammation in the skin and can be used in combination with other topical medications for melasma.
- Hydroquinone: Hydroquinone is a common ingredient in many skin-lightening creams and lotions. It works by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is involved in melanin production. Hydroquinone is typically applied directly to the melasma patches at night for two to four months to reduce pigmentation.
- Methimazole: Methimazole is an antithyroid medication that is effective for melasma that does not respond to hydroquinone. It can be applied topically as a cream or taken orally as a tablet. Methimazole works by inhibiting the production of thyroid hormones, which can help to reduce the production of melanin in the skin.
- Soybean Extract: Soybean extract is thought to reduce the transfer of pigment from melanocytes to skin cells. It is often used in combination with other topical medications for melasma to enhance their effectiveness.
- Topical Alpha Hydroxy acid: Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are often used in skin care products to exfoliate the skin and remove dead skin cells. In the case of melasma, AHAs can help to remove surface pigmentation and lighten the skin.
- Tranexamic Acid: Tranexamic acid is available as a cream, injection, or oral medication and helps to reduce melanin production in the skin. It is often used in combination with other topical medications for melasma to enhance their effectiveness.
- Tretinoin: Tretinoin is a topical retinoid that is effective in treating melasma. It works by increasing cell turnover in the skin, which helps to lighten pigmentation and improve the overall tone and texture of the skin. However, tretinoin can cause skin irritation and should be avoided during pregnancy.
The Bottom Line
There isn’t a permanent cure for melasma. However, there are several things you can do to stop melasma or prevent it from getting worse. Also, there are medications you can find helpful for melasma. Consult a knowledgeable skin doctor to help you choose the best treatment. If you’re in Singapore, call or visit the Bay Aesthetics Clinic to schedule your appointments. Details below;
Bay Aesthetics Clinic – Pigmentation | Acne Scars | Skin Tightening | Anti-Ageing Treatment Singapore
B2-12 Marina Bay Link Mall,
Marina Blvd, 8A,
Singapore 018984
+6584287811
http://www.bayclinic.sg/