MELASMA: WHAT IS IT AND HOW TO TREAT IT?

During the summer, the skin suffers various aggressions. Higher temperatures, excessive perspiration, contact with sea and pool water and changes in eating habits can all contribute to our skin becoming more sensitive. At the same time, exposure to UVA and UVB rays causes the well-known genetic damage to the cells of our (largest) organ, promoting melanogenesis and intensifying skin "spots".

One of the most difficult conditions to treat and one that worsens with summer, sun and heat is melasma which, despite being seen as a primarily aesthetic condition, can have a very high emotional impact and consequently influence social, family and professional life.

EXPLANATION & CAUSES

It is now known that melasma is a multifactorial condition in the context of generalised inflammation. The characteristic hyperpigmentation - the brown spots - is the result of an overproduction of skin pigment (melanin) by the cells that produce it (melanocytes). As a rule, these spots are symmetrical, within certain known patterns, in more exposed areas of the skin, particularly on the face. As mentioned above, UV rays, visible light and heat are the main triggers for worsening melasma, although hormonal changes, for example due to pregnancy or the use of oral contraceptives, also play a role.

Recent literature has also shown a relationship between increased skin vascularisation and melanogenesis, attributing a vascular component to melasma. Excessive skin aggression, certain cosmetics and inflammation are all factors that can increase or worsen melasma.

TREATMENT

With the most advanced technology, at Avenue Clinic we can improve all types of hyperpigmentation, including Melasma, with minimal risk of rebound effect using Picosecond lasers. These deliver picosecond energy, i.e. they emit pulses of light in trillionths of a second. This rapid energy delivery converts the energy into gentle pressure waves (rather than heat), resulting in a photoacoustic effect that allows the pigments to be pulverised into tiny particles that are then quickly and effectively eliminated naturally by the body.

This makes it possible to visibly lighten unwanted pigmentation on all skin phototypes. The action of these treatments also improves the luminosity and texture of the skin in general, giving it a lush, radiant complexion... in an Avenue Clinic approach to care that integrates health, beauty and well-being.

Article originally published in Marketeer, by Avenue Clinic.