Melasma is a skin condition characterized by brown, patchy discoloration on the face, particularly on the forehead, cheeks, nose, and upper lip. It is commonly seen in women who are taking contraceptive pills or hormone replacement therapy, during pregnancy, and from excessive sun exposure. But why does it occur, and why is it so stubborn to treat? In this blog post, we’ll delve into the science behind melasma and discuss how to treat it effectively with a combination of PICO laser and chemical peels. We will also look at how to best prevent rebound melasma with the Obagi skin brightening protocol.

Melasma occurs when melanocytes, the cells responsible for producing melanin, become overactive and produce more pigment than normal. This results in the appearance of brown patches on the skin. The exact cause is not yet fully understood, but there are several factors that are known to trigger melasma. One of them is hormonal fluctuations, such as those that occur during pregnancy, menopause, or when taking hormonal medication. Another factor is excessive sun exposure, which can cause the skin to produce more pigment in response to UV radiation.

Melasma is notoriously difficult to treat because it involves deeper layers of the skin. While topical creams and lotions can help to some extent, they only work on the surface and do not penetrate deep enough to remove the pigmentation. This is why laser treatments such as PICO and chemical peels are effective in treating melasma. PICO laser targets the deeper layers of the skin, breaking up the pigment and stimulating collagen production. Chemical peels, on the other hand, remove the top layers of the skin, allowing new, healthy skin to grow.

Rebound melasma is a condition that can occur after successful treatment of melasma. It happens when the skin is exposed to the same triggers that caused the original melasma, such as hormonal fluctuations or excessive sun exposure. To prevent rebound melasma, it’s important to follow a proper skincare regimen that includes daily use of sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapplication every two hours if exposed to the sun. In addition, the Obagi skin brightening protocol can help to even out skin tone and prevent the recurrence of melasma.

The Obagi skin brightening protocol involves the use of products that contain hydroquinone, a skin-lightening agent that helps to reduce pigmentation. The protocol includes a series of creams and gels that are applied to the skin daily, as well as a skin brightening serum that is applied twice per day. This regimen has been shown to be effective in preventing the recurrence of melasma, but it’s important to follow the instructions carefully and avoid overuse, as hydroquinone can have side effects if used incorrectly.

Melasma can be a frustrating and stubborn condition to treat, but with the right combination of PICO laser, chemical peels, and proper skincare, it can be managed effectively. It’s important to understand the underlying causes of melasma and take steps to prevent it from recurring. By following a proper skincare regimen that includes daily sunscreen use and the Obagi skin brightening protocol, you can maintain an even complexion and prevent the recurrence of melasma. If you’re struggling with melasma, talk to one of our  skin experts to find out which treatment options are right for you.