Lasers Lighting the Way for Enhanced Treatment of Melasma and Tattoo Removal
22.05.12
Melasma is caused by an overproduction of melanin, a natural substance in the body that gives skin its color and can lead to dark patches on the face. While melasma may occur in anyone, the condition most commonly affects women with darker Mediterranean skin, Asians and Hispanics. Dr. Kauvar explained that melasma is typically controlled with topical medications that contain ingredients to lighten the skin, such as hydroquinone or retinoids. Along with regular use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher, this treatment can resolve the excess pigmentation and prevent further darkening of the skin.
However, this therapy may only provide temporary improvement in more difficult cases– particularly in patients with mixed-type melasma. In this type of melasma, excess pigment is produced in both the epidermis and dermis – the upper and lower levels of the skin. While high-energy lasers for pigment removal and laser resurfacing have been investigated to treat this type of melasma, Dr. Kauvar explained that the procedures were too harsh and could wound the skin, leading to increased pigment production and worsening of melasma. More recently, fractional lasers – which are less aggressive lasers – have been used, but there have been reports of an increased incidence of melasma recurring as well.
Source: Newswise (press release)