Skin pigmentation is a common sign of ageing. While we assume that this discoloration happens as we “age” and become older, that is not always the case. Premature skin ageing can happen when we do not care for our skin early on and get exposed to the harsh UV sun rays without proper protection. Some conditions are triggered by hormonal imbalances. A perfect example of which is Melasma. If you have been suffering from this condition and are looking for the best melasma treatment in Singapore, the skin gods are highly in your favour today as this article spills it all. Read on.
Do you really have Melasma?
Melasma is a skin pigmentation disorder that usually affects women with darker skin tones. This skin condition is considered as a chronic disorder and gradually appears over the course of time. It is also non-cancerous and harmless, although its development may affect a one’s quality of life as it changes the appearance of a person. Sometimes melasma can clear on its own. If it does not, there are various aesthetic treatments available in Singapore that can help banish this unsightly skin condition.
Before we jump into treatment, it is imperative to know that the condition that you have is really melasma. This is because there are several types of skin pigmentation and they may all look similar. There are also different kinds of treatment specifically available for each type. Sometimes, melasma can be confused with other skin conditions like:
- Age spots
- Nexus of Hori
- Nevus of Ota
- Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation
Getting just any treatment for skin pigmentation can actually make it worse, so it is important that you have the right diagnosis and the proper treatment administered by a qualified aesthetic practitioner.
Areas affected by melasma
Melasma can be identified by either spots of skin discoloration that are like freckles or flat patches that can be bluish-grey and/or light or dark brown in colour. These can spread in different parts of the face, such as:
- Cheeks
- Chin
- Forehead
- Nose
- Upper lip
Melasma may also cover the back, forearms and neck or any area of the skin that has sunlight exposure.
Three types of melasma
The type of melasma that you have can further be identified based on colour and appearance:
- Dermal – This type of melasma is either bluish or light brown in colour. The borders of the patches are blurry.
- Epidermal – This type of melasma is dark brown in colour. Its borders are solid.
- Mixed – This type of melasma is a mix of bluish and brown patches. It is the most common type of melasma.
A Wood’s lamp examination, also known as a blacklight test, is usually done to diagnose which type of melasma is present. This skin test uses a lamp that has a long-wave UV light that can reveal the colour of certain cells or make them fluorescent.
In addition to undergoing a Wood’s lamp examination, your doctor may also ask questions that can help diagnose your skin condition:
- Are you pregnant?
- Are there other skin disorders that you have noticed or have been diagnosed with?
- Do you have a family history of melasma?
- Do you use tanning beds?
- What are the cosmetic and skincare products that you use?
- What medications are you currently taking or have taken in the past?
- When did you start noticing the appearance of the skin discoloration?
- What areas of the body are affected by skin discoloration?
Different causes of melasma
Melasma is caused by two general factors:
- Hormones – especially in women
- Radiation – infrared light, visible light, ultraviolet rays (UV)
As compared to men, women are more likely to develop melasma due to hormonal changes. Studies have yet to find out what exactly triggers melasma to develop in women, particularly during pregnancy. The theories that link women to melasma formation revolve around the increased production of two hormones: oestrogen and progesterone. Women who exhibit high levels of oestrogen and progesterone have often been observed to develop melasma.
Other than hormones and radiation, melasma may also be triggered by other factors, such as:
- Cosmetics – Makeup that can cause phototoxic reaction
- Genes – Some people may have a higher risk of developing melasma when the condition is present in their family history
- Medications – Anti-seizure drugs, contraceptives, phototoxic drugs
- Medical conditions – Hypothyroidism
- Skincare products – Any product that cause skin irritation can worsen melasma
- Tanning beds – UV light from tanning beds worsens melasma
Melasma treatments
There are several melasma treatments available. While some may be easily obtained without a prescription, it is highly advised that patients work with health practitioners in treating melasma to avoid complications.
While a majority of skin pigmentation disorders often respond fast to laser treatments, melasma proves otherwise. Topical medications are usually the choice of many experts when treating melasma. Topical products that work well in lightening the skin and erasing melasma include any of the following strong ingredients:
- Azelaic Acid
- Hydrocortisone
- Hydroquinone
- Tranexamic acid
- Tretinoin
Melasma treatments with azelaic acid are safe to use for pregnant women.
Chemical peels using alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA), glycolic acid, and salicylic acid may also help in lightening melasma as it removes the topmost layer of the skin and regenerates fresh and an evenly toned skin.
You can further help your skin to heal from melasma by taking measures to protect it. Make sure that you use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 everyday, even when you are not directly exposed to the sun. Be more mindful in choosing products that you use for your skin. Read labels and avoid ingredients that may be harsh to your skin. If your melasma is caused by medications like birth control pills, you may want to speak with your doctor to find an alternative.
Unfortunately, a single treatment for melasma has not been discovered yet. A combination of several treatments are often done to effectively treat melasma.
Where to go for melasma treatments in Singapore
The key to getting an effective melasma treatment is going to a qualified and board-certified dermatologist. In Singapore, you can consult with Dr David Ng Cheow Hua of One Face Clinic. Dr David has over 15 years of medical and aesthetic experience on record. His expertise covers the treatment of various skin conditions, such as adult acne, ageing skin, and severe skin pigmentations, including melasma.
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One Face Clinic — Dr David Ng Cheow Hua
1 Tras Link #02-01 Orchid Hotel, Singapore 078867
Phone: +65 6222 2262
WhatsApp/WeChat: +65 9822 2989
