Understanding Melasma: Causes and Treatment Options

What is Melasma?

Melasma, also known as chloasma, is a chronic skin condition characterised by symmetrical, blotchy, brownish facial pigmentation. It commonly affects women, particularly those of Southeast Asian descent and individuals living in tropical climates like Singapore. While it often appears during pregnancy—hence the nickname “mask of pregnancy”—melasma can also affect non-pregnant women and, less commonly, men.

The condition typically begins as faint discoloration that gradually darkens over time. Patches may vary in size and distribution, and while some may fade post-pregnancy, others persist and require medical intervention.

---

What Causes Melasma?

The underlying causes of melasma are complex and involve both internal and external factors. Common contributors include:

• Hormonal fluctuations, such as those during pregnancy, hormone therapy, or the use of oral contraceptives.
• Sun exposure, which stimulates melanocyte activity, leading to increased melanin production.
• Genetics, with a family history of melasma increasing susceptibility.
• Skincare products that irritate or damage the skin, potentially triggering pigment overproduction.
• Stress, which may influence hormonal balance and skin responses.

---

Who Is at Risk?

You may be more prone to melasma if you:

• Are pregnant or undergoing hormone therapy
• Take birth control pills
• Have darker skin tones
• Frequently expose your skin to sunlight
• Use cosmetic products that cause irritation

---

Treatment Options for Melasma

There are several non-invasive treatments available to help lighten melasma and even out skin tone. A consultation with a medical doctor is necessary to determine the most suitable approach based on the depth and type of pigmentation.

---

1.  Yellow Laser Laser-Based Pigment Reduction

This approach involves the use of light-based energy to break down excess melanin in the skin. Specific wavelengths target pigment while sparing the surrounding tissue, making it suitable for patients with darker skin tones.

How It Works:

• Delivers precise light energy to melanin-rich areas
• Helps reduce pigment production by targeting both melanin and underlying blood vessels that support melanocyte activity
• Stimulates collagen renewal and skin regeneration

Expected Results:

• Progressive lightening of melasma patches
• Typically requires multiple sessions spaced a few weeks apart
• Minimal downtime, with mild temporary redness or sensitivity

---

2. Picosecond PICO Laser Technology

Picosecond (PICO) lasers emit ultra-short pulses to break pigment particles into smaller fragments, allowing the body to clear them naturally. The shorter pulse duration reduces heat buildup, minimising the risk of skin damage.

How It Works:

• High-speed pulses shatter pigment clusters without harming nearby tissues
• Ideal for stubborn or dermal pigmentation
• Can be used in combination with other modalities for deeper melasma types

Benefits:

• Suitable for Asian skin types
• Less discomfort and fewer sessions compared to traditional lasers
• Little to no downtime

---

3. Combination Therapy and Individualised Plans

For optimal results, laser treatments are often combined with:

• Topical lightening agents (prescribed by doctors)
• Sun protection measures, including daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen
• Lifestyle adjustments such as avoiding known triggers (e.g., heat, friction, hormonal medications)

---

What to Expect

• Procedure Duration: Sessions generally last 20–45 minutes, depending on the chosen treatment.
• Downtime: Most patients return to normal activities the same day. Mild redness or sensitivity may occur.
• Results: Visible lightening usually begins within 1–2 weeks post-treatment, with full results after 3–6 sessions.

---

Consult Before You Treat

Melasma is a recurrent condition. While treatments can improve pigmentation, long-term management requires a tailored, doctor-guided approach. A thorough consultation at Cambridge Medical will help assess the pigmentation depth, skin type, and lifestyle factors to develop a personalised care plan.

---

Disclaimer:

The above treatments are medical procedures that should only be performed by a qualified medical professional. Suitability and outcomes vary between individuals. Please consult a licensed doctor for personalised advice.