Melasma is a skin condition characterized by dark, discolored patches on the skin, primarily on the face. These patches are usually brown or gray-brown and appear on areas exposed to the sun, such as the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip. It is common among women and can worsen during pregnancy or with sun exposure.
Melasma is often triggered by hormonal changes, sun exposure, or the use of certain medications, such as birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy. Genetics can also play a significant role, with a family history of melasma increasing the likelihood of developing it.
Melasma is not dangerous or life-threatening, but it can have a significant impact on an individual’s self-esteem and confidence due to its noticeable appearance. If untreated, the patches can become darker over time, especially with continued sun exposure.
Melasma is diagnosed based on a physical examination. Sometimes a Wood’s lamp (black light) examination is used to determine the depth of pigmentation in the skin. In rare cases, a skin biopsy may be required to rule out other conditions.
At Diya Skin Clinic, melasma is treated with advanced laser technology that targets the pigmented areas, breaking down excess melanin without damaging surrounding tissues. Treatments are customized according to the skin type and severity of the condition. Sunscreen and topical treatments are also recommended to prevent recurrence.
Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen, avoiding excessive sun exposure, and wearing protective clothing can help prevent melasma from worsening. Hormonal balance and skincare routines are also essential preventive measures.
Freckles are small, flat brown spots that appear on sun-exposed areas of the skin, most commonly on the face, shoulders, and arms. They are caused by an overproduction of melanin in certain areas of the skin and are usually harmless.
Freckles are caused by genetic factors and sun exposure. People with lighter skin tones, especially those with red or blonde hair, are more prone to developing freckles. UV radiation from the sun stimulates melanin production, which leads to the appearance of freckles.
Freckles themselves are not dangerous, but they indicate UV exposure, which can increase the risk of skin damage and skin cancer. Monitoring any changes in freckles is important for skin health.
Freckles can be diagnosed through a visual examination. A dermatologist may use a dermatoscope to differentiate freckles from other pigmented skin conditions, such as moles or lentigines.
Diya Skin Clinic offers laser treatments to lighten or remove freckles by targeting melanin clusters. This method reduces freckles without harming surrounding skin. Chemical peels and topical treatments may also be used for long-term maintenance and prevention.
The best way to prevent freckles from forming or darkening is to use a high-SPF sunscreen daily, avoid direct sun exposure, and wear protective clothing. Incorporating antioxidants into your skincare routine can also help protect against UV damage.
Dark spots, also known as hyperpigmentation, are areas of skin that become darker than the surrounding skin due to an overproduction of melanin. These spots can appear anywhere on the body, but are most common on the face, hands, and arms.
Dark spots are caused by sun exposure, hormonal changes, acne scars, and skin aging. Injuries or inflammation of the skin, such as acne, eczema, or cuts, can also result in post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Dark spots are generally harmless, but they can affect self-esteem due to their noticeable appearance. Persistent or changing dark spots should be evaluated by a dermatologist to rule out skin cancer or other serious conditions.
A dermatologist can diagnose dark spots through a physical examination. In some cases, a biopsy or dermatoscope may be used to assess the pigmentation and rule out more serious conditions like melanoma.
Laser therapy is one of the most effective treatments for dark spots, as it precisely targets excess melanin without harming the surrounding skin. Diya Skin Clinic also offers chemical peels and topical treatments containing retinoids, hydroquinone, and vitamin C for gradual lightening of dark spots.
To prevent dark spots, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days. Avoid picking or squeezing acne, and treat any inflammation promptly to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Incorporating antioxidants into skincare can also help reduce the risk of developing dark spots.
