By this stage, you all probably know what pigmentation is and the various ways it manifests itself (and if you don’t, have a read through of this!). That’s all well and good, but what you probably really want to know about are the best things that work … right? Lovoir to the rescue!
Melasma treatment creams
If you’re looking for an over-the-counter cream to treat pigmentation, you should become very well acquainted with kojic and mandelic acid, two ingredients which are both safe and effective in treating melasma. As ever, we’re proud to stock a range of products containing these wonderous components for both in-salon and at-home use here at Lovoir. Look for those containing niacinamide specifically for the treatment of melasma (we proudly sell a serum here called B3 Plus that offers this protection), which you can find in our range of O Cosmedics serums.). DP Dermacuticals Britelite – which contains kojic acid – is another great product for melasma as it helps to “mute” pigmentation.
Retinol and retinaldehyde – various forms of Vitamin A – are also great alternatives, working to speed up the cell turnover production, but may carry side effects so always discuss with a professional beforehand. Read more about the benefits here. Ensuring you include Vitamin A in your diet can also help you cure melasma from the inside, too!
While hydroquinone (HQ) is the most common ingredient in treating the condition, this should really only be used as a last resort – and only when recommended by dermatologists. It can be highly effective as it works by blocking tyrosinase – the enzyme that converts dopamine to melanin (what gives skin its colour) – however it can carry a number of potential side effects, especially if you use a treatment cream with too high a concentration of HQ as this can cause a permanent skin discolouration, which is the very opposite of what you’re trying to achieve. That’s why it’s imperative to discuss this with a professional beforehand.
Cleaning routine
Environmental pollution can make the condition worse by corroding the protective layer of the skin, making it more susceptible to damage. Simple things like cleaning the face every night before bed can work wonders in helping prevent it, as can following up with a good moisturiser to help seal in the lipid barrier of the skin.
Sunscreen
Being diligent with your sunscreen application – as well as avoiding the sun wherever possible – is another sure-fire way to help it clear by itself, over time. Like with much else, however, not all sunscreens are created equally.
As a general rule, non-chemical sunscreens are preferable for the treatment of melasma as chemical ones not only offer a lower level of protection but, in some cases, can even trigger allergic reactions that could make it worse. Take extra care by following up with SPF-enhanced makeup, too. Read more about the importance of SPF in both our blogs here and here.
Other sun-safety tips that can also help keep it at bay include wearing hats, sunglasses and protective clothing and staying in the shade during the hottest parts of the day.
Face peels
There is a range of different face peels available to treat a whole host of conditions – including melasma – working by removing the outer layer of the skin that contains the unwanted pigment. They should always be undertaken by an experienced professional (like us!) to prevent any unwanted side effects, such as scarring. Read more about the benefits and what we offer here.
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Microdermabrasion
The ultimate in exfoliation, this popular technique is a non-chemical, non-invasive, non-surgical skin resurfacing treatment using a diamond head machine and is yet another treatment we’re proud to offer here at Lovoir. Results are best seen when used in conjunction with other treatements and regular sunscreen application. Read more here.
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Microneedling
Is there anything the Dermapen can’t do? Helping to regenerate the skin via a series of tiny pinpricks, it’s another great tool. Read more here.
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Avoid known triggers
Things like birth control pills and hormone therapy can exacerbate the occurrence of melasma, so wherever possible, try and find non-hormonal alternatives.
Did you know we can create tailor-made skincare regimes and treatment plans from our skin consultations?
Book one today with one of our qualified therapists!
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