Melasma (Pekas)

Melasma (Pekas)

MELASMA (pekas) is an acquired skin condition the presents as dark brownish patches of the face of adults. The cheeks, bridge of the nose, forehead and upper lip are the most commonly affected areas. Melasma occurs predominantly in females of dark-skinned races particularly Asians and Hispanics.

What causes melasma?

Melasma is caused by over-stimulation of the pigment producing cells in the skin. The exact etiology of melasma is not known. Heredity influences the occurrence of melasma. Hormonal factors are believed to trigger melasma. It can be associated with pregnancy and has been called “the mask of pregnancy”. Taking oral contraceptives is another factor contributing to melasma. Exposure to sunlight or even very strong light bulbs triggers and worsens melasma. Some cosmetics and phototoxic drugs can exacerbate melasma. Although melasma can be chronic, lasting for years, it is not associated with systemic illnesses.

How is melasma treated?

Although there is no cure for melasma, there are many available treatments. Melasma may disappear after pregnancy, or it may remain for many years. Sun protection is a mainstay in its treatment. A broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended. It should be applied daily whether it id sunny or cloudy. If melasma develops following the intake of birth control pills, it usually fades upon discontinuation of the oral contraceptives. A variety of tropical medications can be prescribed by your dermatologist.

Products containing hydroquinone, kojic acid, arbutin, glycolic acid, tretinion or a combination of these can be used to treat melasma. At the dermatologist’s medical office, several procedures can be performed to improve and treat melasma. Chemical peels ranging from the superficial glycolic peels to the more potent peels can further hasten the improvement of melasma. Microdermabrasion or diamond peel can also be performed. The management of melasma usually involves a combination of these procedures and a tropical skin care regimen. There are some studies reporting the efficacy of intense-pulsed light (IPL) devices or standards of treatment. Upon the proper assessment of your dermatologist, a test spot may be performed. These ancillary procedures are usually done when topical treatment has failed. If you think you may have melasma, it is best to consult with a board-certified dermatologist for proper evaluation and management.

Note: This information is not intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical advise, diagnosis or treatment. If you or someone you know have any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is advisable to seek professional help.

The Medical City offers a roster of competent dermatologists who may assess and treat people with melasma.

For more information, please call:

CENTER FOR WELLNESS AND AESTHETICS

Tel. No. (632) 988-1000 / (632) 988-7000 ext. 6576 / 6586

CENTER FOR PATIENT PARTNERSHIP

Tel. No. (632) 988-1000 / (632) 988-7000 ext. 6444