OTC Creams Do Not Treat Melasma
Melasma is a skin condition characterized by patchy, grayish-brown discolouration on facial areas that are most exposed to the sun such as the forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Although not a life-threatening condition, melasma can be very emotionally and socially frustrating to the affected individual, especially as it affects more women than men. Unfortunately, many women think that over-the-counter creams can treat melasma when these simply do not. Seeing a qualified doctor to first confirm the diagnosis and type of melasma is very important in selecting the appropriate treatment. Women should understand the importance of not concluding on the appropriate treatment for the condition without first consulting a doctor.
In most Asian women, the condition results partly from exposure to the sun, use of certain contraceptive pills and pregnancy. Thus, preventing excessive sun exposure is the first step in treating unwanted pigmentation and sun damage. Women are advised to always use an umbrella or a hat or to stay indoors when the heat of the sun is at its peak. Also, daily application of good quality sunscreens with SPF 30 or more will protect against the harmful UV rays.
Other causes of melasma may be genetic or due to hormone imbalance, particularly during pregnancy. This is why it is also known as the “mask of pregnancy.” In some cases, melasma improves after the pregnancy, though this is rare.
Doctors may prescribe scientifically proven medical-grade agents that can lighten and even suppress the melanocytes responsible for melasma. These include Vitamin C serums, Epiquin Micro lightening cream (4% hydroquinone with its unique skin penetrating technology), and Triluma cream. The Cosmelan Painless Depigmentation Peel is also very popular in treating melasma.
Another way is to consider treatment with the Medlite C6 Q-switched Nd-yag laser that gently but effectively reduces melasma load after five to ten sessions. The laser energy selectively destroys unwanted melanin pigments, leading to lightening of melasma over time. Objective photography attests to this in patients, time and time again.
Without these scientifically-proven interventions, women resort to buying expensive make-up foundation and the daily application of thick make-up to conceal their imperfection. Not only is this going to mean bigger costs in the long run, it also is time-consuming and requires a lot of effort. Seeing a doctor will allow you to obtain the medically sound and longer lasting treatment solutions to keep melasma in check.