Also try: age spots, Chemical peel, hyperpigmentation, hyperpigmented skin, IPL, melasma, melasma treatment, pigmentation, pigmentation problems, pregnancy mask, skin pigmentation
Hi I am 25 and try to take care of my skin as best as I can. About 6-8 months ago I noticed that I had developed a darker brownish skin pigmentation above my upper lip on my otherwise fair skin. I was told by an estitician that considering the fact that I applied sunscreen daily the culprit might be my birth control pills. (Seasonal)
I purchased a $50 skin lightining cream from skin therapeutic that contains 2% hydroquinone 3% kojic acid and 5% aha I have been using it pretty consistently for about 3 weeks now. I stopped taking the birth control about 2 weeks ago. I haven't seen any results yet and I feel so self-conscious about this discoloration. Make-up doesn't really do a very good job of concealing it so I really need to find a treatment fast. I'm not really in the position to pay for an expensive treatment but if that's my only choice I will charge it so be it!
I was wondering if anyone has had a similar problem what has been the most effective/ least expensive treatment? The info is MUCH appreciated! Thank you so much.
J
J
Submitted by J on March 28, 2007 - 1:01pm. Viewed 12061 times
Hi- I have some hyperpigmentation on the side of my cheek that bothers me too- I have been using a skin lightening product that has only 2 % hydroquinone and seems to work a bit- I have also had 3 microdermabrasion sessions to the area - although the last time, I got a small spider vein from the microderm- so, now, I will need to go get a laser treatment for that and I am not sure that I will go back for more microderm.
I have been told that Fraxel laser is the best treatment for hyperpigmentation. It is amazing what it can do for freckles. IPL will work too, I think if you just go to a derm and ask for such a small area to be done they would offer you a better price.
Keep us informed. I need to bite the bullet and get it done too.
I found this article which has a few new treatments which may adress pigmentation and some other areas you are referring to , or at least investigate some alternative potentially cheaper treatments?
Botox and Dermal Fillers
A popular choice – Botox can temporarily erase lines and wrinkles and can also be administered to reshape the face to create a softer, more youthful appearance. It can also give a lifting effect to the brow, or make the face appear more slim-lined. Similar to Botox are Dermal Fillers (Perlane, Restylane) and these are equally as popular to fill out unwanted lines on the face.
Omnilux Revive
Targets ageing, rejuvenates skin and improves the effect of skincare. This treatment involves a spectrally pure, non-laser light source that is directed on to the skin for 20 minutes. Through the use of only the red light part of the natural white light spectrum, the skin is rejuvenated.
Mesolift
A series of injections that aim to firm and tighten facial contours. Injected under the skin are a combination of vitamins, minerals and hyaluronic acid and amino acids. This has a rejuvenating effect and also lifts the skin. A few treatments may be required.
Aptos Threads
Placed under the skin to lift facial contours and smooth out wrinkles. The treatment can be used on the face, breasts, buttocks and neck. A local anaesthetic is administered and threads are placed between the skin and muscle using a special needle. The threads are then tightened to deliver the desired result.
Restalift
A stabilised haluronic acid that is injected to lift and fill hollow cheeks and sagging jowl areas.
Sculptra Wrinkle Treatment
An injectible form of polylactic acid, which helps stimulate the body's own production of collagen, making skin firmer and younger looking. This treatment can be used on the face and neck, but also effective used on the hands.
Fraxel Laser Treatment
A specifically targeted laser applied to pigmented or damaged skin cells. A topical anaesthetic is applied, then a blue tint, this highlights skin contours therefore increasing accuarcy. After treatment expect fewer lines and wrinkles and a reduction in pigmentation.
IPL LaserSmooth Photorejuvenation
This treatment directs Super Intense Pulsed Light on to the skin to reduce pigmentation, broken capillaries, enlarged pores and fine lines. The intense pulsed light is applied in a series of gentle pulses. Heat from the light causes damage to abnormal blood vessels or pigmentation. When the body heals it clears away the blemished skin in the process.
This message is to J...don't go see a dermatologist and have any facial peels, microderma, or lasers done...u will be wasting money!! I have had the same problem now for 2 years (ever since I turned 30)and have been at this now for over a year doing everything possible to fix this!! Nothing has worked!! It looks exactly the same!! I am still researching tryin other products but I just wanted to warn you not to waste your money doing these things...If I ever find a way to fix the problem I will let u know!
tigerlady
yes tigerlady u r right.I too was in the same boat as u are now.Atlast my derm prescribed me azelaic acid 20%(SkINOREN),I used it for just 45 days. In the day I followed it with a good sunblock.Amazing ,,,,long battled pigmentation has vanished leaving a very clean skin.Even my pores r clean and refined.It may work for u too.Any way consult ur derm and get informed more about it.Good luck((((This product stings like hell)
I have had melasma for 20 years and nothing works permanently unless you want to live in a cave. I prefer to play tennis and live my life in sunny Florida and try my best to not let it bother me. If you are just getting the "stache" above your lip, you are lucky. Use a good concealer and smile with confidence. Most of us long term melasma sufferers have it over our whole face and it gets worse the more we interfere with procedures. Best to you. Remember, you are your own worst critic. - s
You need Tri-Luma Cream... if your Dr has Fraxel, that will also help.
I had melasma and was very embarrassed about it and tried lots of treatments and creams and never really saw much improvement.
I went to a very reputable dermatologist and they recommended the IPL followed by using a skin care system that uses a 4% hydroquinone along with glycolic and it has been amazing in the improvement of my skin.
It also helped to decrease any of the little blood vessels around my nose and my cheeks.
I am totally a fan of IPL and have recommended it to my family and friends who have brown spots and /or broken blood vessels.
After 6 months of using this skin care system it is amazing how clear my skin is now.
For the first time in my life I am proud of the way my skin glows and every where I go I get lots of compliments on how beautiful my skin is.
Don't give up on treating your melasma. I think if you really go to a good dermatologist and get the proper advise then you can improve your melasma. It isn't cheap but well worth the money.
I have suffered with melasma for more than a decade. It is a lifelong battle but believe me, you can get it under control. Sun, hormones, stress, heat, friction, many different things influence it. As soon as one area looks better, another splotch appears. HQ or other other lighteners and melanase inhibitors are essential, as is regular exfoliation. Some people respond well to laser and light, for others it is worse. For some microdermabrasion helps, for others it is worse. It is a process of trial and error to find out what works for you and what your triggers are. But no matter what works for you, here are three golden rules to melasma:
1. Always wear at least and SPF 30 no matter the weather. Micronized titanium and zinc oxides are physical barrier that work well without attracting free radicals (that can make matters worse). And certainly in the sun, wear a wide-brimmed hat (this will become a fashion statement for you).
2. Never use HQ or a retinoid if you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or nursing. NEVER, not in any concentration.
3. Make certain you have a GREAT anti-oxidant that over time, will help --Prevage MD and Revale are the most popular physician-strength anti-oxidants you can get right now.
View answers from Marie Czenko KuechelJ - I am the same as you. I have had these marks for a couple of years and I am 26. I have spend loads of money on lotions and potions, now after reading articles on this site, I dont feel to positive. I absolutely hate the pigmentation. I wish somebody would find a cure. I've yet to have kids, does this mean that it will get twice as bad when I get pregnant?
I have the same problem. It seems that I am going through the same regiment as 'Glowing Skin' has written about above. Last week I had a glycolic peel and microdermabrasion. My dermalolgist prescirbed Tri-Luma. It's by prescription only and within a week, my skin is lighter. My skin was very splotchy. My cheeks were so dark and blotched that it looked as if I had on bronzer. also, I had dark splotches above my upper lip. The peel and Tri-Luma have been working amazingly well.
Tri-Luma contains 4% hydroquinone which I use every night. it seems to be realy working.
Watch out for those over the counter products. I have noticed that they only use around 2% hydroquinone which has never worked for me.
I have been applying the cream every night for 6 days now and notice a great difference. I think that the glycolic peel definately helped also.
I had mild melasma from when I was pregnant and I opted for BBL. The BBL cost a total of $300 and has made my skin so clear, people at work are now commenting how my skin is "glowing" (I am using using the mineral veil cosmetic as a foundation). I live in Hawaii and wear SPF without fail when I go out. I have become more conscientious about my skin, and although it has only been a month, my skin looks absolutely flawless. BBL is slightly different to IPL and is newer on the market, so you might want to look into it.
Hi J -- I have the same problem and have tried HQ 4% which was very irritating to my skin making it look even worse and IPL. I am still looking for something that will work permanently. Check out rebeccafitzgeraldmd.com -- she has a product called Cosmelan depigmentation treatment. I haven't tried it, but it looks promising. I may also look into Diolite laser. You're not alone.
Hi I had the same problem when I used birthcontrol but it went away once I stopped bc pills without any topical bleach cremes. I think it took a few months though
Hi All! I'm so sorry to hear you've all had problems with melasma! Here is what my NP has told me. Melasma is the result of your body metabolising your estrogens differently. There are a lot of ways you can get rid of your pigmentations that doesn't have to harm you. Hydroquinone has been found in peoples livers! Did you guys know that we are the ONLY country that has not banned hydroquinone?!!! Instead, there are a lot of other naturaly tyronase kinase inhibitors (tyronase kinase is the protein used to make pigment) like licorice root, l-arbutin, kojic acid, etc. Also, to address the hormone thing again - broccoli supplement will help- and indinol, a supplement you can find via douglas labs.
The other thing my NP was telling me is that another issue melasma people have is that they don't sweat when their body gets hot and the pigment is a response to heat. So it didn't matter necessarily if I was putting sunscreen on every hour of my life, if I was hot and my body couldn't release the heat then I'd turn brown again. So she advised me to use zinc and titanium dioxide only sunscreen because the chemical sunscreens release heat when they come into contact with uv rays - and make me brown!
whew! what would I ever do with out my NP?!
Hello... I live in Arizona and have very bad melasma on my cheeks, chin and upper lip area. I didn't start getting melasma until I got pregnant with my first child. I had used birth control pills before hand and had never had an issue with brown patches or acne. Now four kids and 14 years later my patches are worse than ever. Nothing has worked!!! I went from being told how nice my skin was (obviously younger) to now people telling me that I have dirt on my face. I apply a lot of makeup to try and conceal these patches as my skin is very fair and sensitive but with the Arizona temps. past 100 degrees I found it interesting that your NP said a person won't sweat there. I do.... I recently tried Loreals mineral foundation and it had great coverage but stopped using it because it burned my skin. I am not financially able to be a guinie (sp) pig to what can/will work. All I know is that my self-esteem is out the door. I won't do anything close to water as to not wash off my makeup. I feel like a prisoner to this skin disorder. Lotions and creams didn't do anything for me. I did try a small laser area about 10 years ago but it didn't work. Any one have any suggestions or luck for treatment with sensitive (extreme) skin? Plus, I have started to break out recently like a d___ teenager!!!! I never used to break out. HELP!!!!
I'm sorry to hear what you've been going through--especially in the AZ sun & temperatures. Aside from seeking out advice from a dermatologist, there are some products on the market you may wish to try--but I urge you to acquaint yourself first with their ingredients as you mention you have sensitive skin. The first is the Exuviance line by NeoStrata. (you can look up Exuviance in our Beauty Products section). They have a line of foundations and concealers called CoverBlend. I've used it--and found it more effective than DermaBlend. It's less "tacky" and glides on more smoothly. There is a lighter weight foundation w/SPF and a richer creme coverage foundation, which can be used for spot areas as well.
The other product you can check out on RealSelf.com is Glyquin XM. This is a hydroquinone formula that contains twice as much hydroquinone as what is most typically found in over-the-counter fade creams (such as Esoterica or Porcelana). Some individuals don't like to use hydroquinone, as it's recently been in the press as a suspected carcinogen. You can find more information about this topic at www.scorecard.org. And keep in mind, part of a hydroquinone regimen is ensuring use of an effective.
Whatever you decide to try, please let us know--and don't forget to leave your review of any of the products or treatments you try--it's a huge help to others in the RealSelf.com community. Best of luck!
Hi, I live in Arizona too...I suffer badly from melasma like you. I have done IPL and it worked the first time. However, my spots came back a year later. I have found that soy products make the spots worse. If you look at the ingredients of most facial products it has soy lechin in it. You should try Jane Iredal mineral makeup. They carry it at lifetime fitness. The makeup is wonderful. I totally understand I can not go anywhere without makeup. You might try the IPL. I do it and it reduces the redness and takes away some spots.
Hi,
I'm curious if doing any of those things have actually helped/ gotten rid of your melasma? I suspect we are all somewhat different in what will work for us. I know I sweat excessively, and use a physical sunblock (Zinc oxide) but when I get hot, the patches still get darker.
Anyway, any of that stuff work?
I had that dark spot over my lip as well. I look like I had a mustache!! It was pretty embarassing, and yes make up doesn't help cover up much, if anything it drew more attention to it. Anyways, I started using the shiseido line called white lucent(cleanser, toner, sunblock) and purchase the Whitening gel called "WHITESS" and tried not to think about it too much and one day I looked in the mirror and the dark area was gone!! I'm not sure if this product will work for you, but it did for me and it lighten my other hyperpigmentation I have on my whole face!! It didn't make it go away but it did lighten it, but the dark spot on my upper lip went away totally!! The gel is pretty expensive though. $120!! To me it was well worth it since it worked!! I hope you'll find something that will work for you as well. I've tried so many products/treatments that was pretty disappointing!! From dermabrasion to chemical peel to photofacials, nothing worked for me!! It was expensive and I felt like it made it worst!! If anything don't go to a medspa, go see a real dermatogolist!!! It really sucks but I'm looking into IPL for the hyperpigmentations I have on my face and hope it will work to eliminate it!! Alot of people say they don't notice my hyperpigmentation until I point it out, but to me I see myself in the mirror everyday and I see it everyday and it bothers me!! :-( Good luck to you!
Hi I'm 32 and I have melasma on cheek and forhead. I'm currently bleaching it with Hydroquione 4% I wanted to see if the Yag Laser would work I used the yag laser to remove my freckles and I was very happy with the results but I'm scared to do it on my melasma and make it worse. What do you think? Should I or Shouldn't I?
B
Don't use IPL for melasma. That will make it better for a short period of time and the pigment will come back worse! Also hydroquinone isn't good either.
Hi even i had the same problem(pigmentation).I tried all stuffs in the market.Those marks stayed on my face for nearly 12 yrs.Glycolic peeks made my skin sensitive.Hydroquinone made me further dark.I was like cat out of chimney.lactic acid 10% worked a bit on the side of moisturising.At last my derm prescribed me AZELAIC ACID 20%(SKINOREN).There are other brands too like azelex,finacea etc.I used this in the morning and applied a sunblock-spf45 20 minutes later.But this product would sting.I even used to sit in front of my desk fan.At night i used tretinoin 0.025% on every other night only.woooow.,,,i can say that my long battle has come to n end.Yes my face looks visibly clear,refined pores etc,,,,,,in just 45 days,Though its an acne medication it removes abnormal pigments with out altering the natural skin colour.Thats really a good news.HYDROQUINONE is an evil stuff.The real problem starts post treatment.Use very mild exfoliants like tertinoin 0.025% only.Instead of tretinoin,,even glycolic acid 12 % can b used at night to aid exfoliation.My derm asked me to use it twice a day,,but inm using it just once.Any talk to ur derm about this azelaic acid and get informed.It may help u.Remember,,,if u have acne,,u may break out first and then resolve,Good luck
Hi Nancysharon10 just wondering about your experience with Hydroquinone......you said that it made your spots darker, I have been using the Obaji system for about 6 months.........its main product is Hydroquinone during the day, along with Hydroquinone/Tretinoin at night........I think it is lightening my melasma up a bit.......but I was wondering if you use a blender cream along with the tretinoin because I was told that it helps to get deeper. If I just use the tretinoin alone it will take longer.........did you have a lot of redness and peeling when you started the tretinoin??......anyways, I was also wondering about the azelaic acid..........you said that you think it works......is your skin light tone, medium tone, or dark tone because the only research I had read was about hydroquionone and darker skin tone and how it might make you melasma darker.....okay, thanks.........this is soooo
frustrating.........you are lucky that you are seeing results.........but you said you suffered for 12 years......I have been searching for 10 years........I did use tri-luma, but is was a short term response only......it eventually came back.............like I said I am using obaji system.......I know my skin it healthier, but the spots are still there......I read some research today......that it could take up to 22 months..........okay.......let me know......thanks, Jo Ann
If you want to get rid of our hyperpigmentation, you have to use something more potent then over the counter cosmetics. One product I know will work is Obagi. You have to go to a doctor. Although you can get the product online, if you've never used it before, you won't know what to expect, and you won't know how to use it.
Hi everyone,
I am an asian(southeast) woman(Laotian),will be 35 yrs. old this July 2008. I would like to have a clearer face for my 35th b-day celebrations. After my pregnancy with my son who is now 22 mos.old,melasma and acne just took over my face.It really affected my self esteem.I am considering a chemical peels at home the reason being of course cheaper.Anyone have a particular products in minds that actually works.I'm desperate.
Thanks,
Paige
Hi everyone............I saw this information regarding new technology for melasma.........I am calling my dermotologist next week......I checked online and say many photos of women with melasma and how this equipment helped to reduce melasma............
Most fractionated laser operators often require or suggest up to four or five treatment sessions but the Fractional laser usually requires around three sessions in most circumstances. Excellent results have been obtained for acne scars, pigmentation disorders like melasma, sun and aging damaged skin, line and wrinkle resurfacing, along with improvement in stretch marks and striae from the reporting of clinical researchers.
It is non-ablative soft tissue coagulation and skin resurfacing with high efficacy and no downtime.
If you have mild melasma from birth control... will it get worse when you are pregnant?
Any information would be helpful!!
Yes... I didn't have patches on birth control but it took over my face once I got pregnant. I was told they'll go once I have the baby but it stayed on spread further and got darker. It has to be hormone based....
I got melasma while on oral contraceptives. When I became pregnant it became only slightly worse, not too bad. I expected it to go away once off the birth control for 14 months post partum, but it didn't. I was breast feeding during this time and not sure if that would "prevent" it from fading (since it can be hormonally driven). At the end of the 14 months I went back on the pill.
Currently I am using tretinoin .05% alternating with glycolic acid every other night and just had my first microdermabrasion. AT this time the melasma is still there, but my skin looks fabulous otherwise.
my doc wants me to start using the tretinoin and the glycolic together 5 nights a week and alternate the other two nights, we'll see how that goes.
I also use the anthelios spf 50 during the day.
I should mention I was a sun worshiper until my mid to late 20's (I am 40 now) when we were all told how bad the sun was for us and since my grandmother had had skin cancer I started using sunblock daily. Despite my best efforts, melasma came a knocking.
Hoping I can get results on my current regimen, but only time will tell.
Hi,
I'm a female, 28 years old and I've had the same problem with the darkening of my skin above my upper lip. It started last summer and got gradually worse. I used NeoStrata Hydroquinone 4% Gel and 40 spf sunscreen. It got a bit better but I didn't notice a big improvement until the winter. Now as of a month ago I notice it starting to get worse again. I'm assuming it is starting to get worse because the sun is getting stronger again. I don't take birth control so I don't think it is affected by my hormones. To make matters worse I am heading down south for a vacation next week (I live in Canada but will be visiting South Carolina). I'm worried that it will get dramatically worse on my trip because it will be much sunnier than it is here, but I don't want to spend my holiday hiding from the sun.
Does anyone know whether this ever completely goes away, or now that I've had this problem occur once will I always have to hide from the sun and use any lotions and creams I can get my hands on? I'm planning on getting in to see a dermatologist soon, but just wanted some advise/information in the meantime. Thanks!!!
Editor's Note: You mentioned NeoStrata products. Please feel free to leave a review of the products you've tried under our "Beauty Products" section--NeoStrata is there and you'll find a list of their products on the NeoStrata page. It's always helpful for other readers to hear reviews.
Hi! I've been using the Sheisedo Whitess for over 3 years now. I didn't see any improvement but at leat my skin is smoother now. Is prolonged use of this product dangerous since there is arbutin on it. Please help..
I thought the following information about Arbutin might be helpful. It's from one of our BeautyCred blog posts here at RealSelf.com and the information comes directly from Civant Skincare in reference to Meladerm, their pigment reducing complex, which contains Arbutin. Here is the link: http://www.realself.com/blog/skin-lightening.
I've also reached out to Shiseido to get their perspective on Arbutin in their Whitess formula, and as soon as I hear back from I will post that as well.
Editor's note: I did hear back from Shiseido and am just awaiting a response from the correct PR contact.
Just heard back the official response from Shiseido. Here it is:
Whitess W Intensive Skin Brightener, as are all Shiseido products, is a cosmetic and is not intended to treat clinical conditions such as melasma. Also, as a cosmetic, there is no risk of side effects with long-term use of this or any Shiseido product.
Shiseido Cosmetics (America) Ltd.
Pretty standard, pretty expected response--but at least Shiseido did finally respond.
I too had suffered melasma one round circle in both of my checks, on top of my nose and my upper lip. Just imagine a clown with a mustache. I tried everything over the counter,seen a couple of derm, Hydroquinone,tretinoin,bleaching cream, etc etc etc. Ordered bunch of product spent so much money. Nothing works. However, I thought i give it another try I start going to derm here in Japan and recomend ipl. Just after 2 treatment my brown spots now so much lighter and my complextion is so much better, my face look so clear and younger looking. Also taking vitamin C (2000mg)a day religiously. between ipl, chemical peel and vitamin C do wonders for me.And yes Shiesedo WHITESS helps.
Well I am too suffering from melasma i'm going to do the Cosemelan 1 on Thurs. Has anyone tried this? My friend did and she said made a huge difference. Whatcha think?
Y.
Well I went to a dermatolgist and I have the mask on right now. I've never had the old formula but my mask was tannish color turned dark brown so whether this the old or new I have it on. I have to leave it on for 10 hours. So I will let you know my progess and results.
Justina
I know that cosmelan 1 is very good for melasma as I read lots of feedbacks. I have melasma too:( and want to find a good dermatologist in London to do it.
Where are you going to have your cosmelan? as I can't find anybody who is doing in England.
Dear Annasnafal,
I got it done with a dermatoglist in Irvine. I have to say today is the 12th day from removing the mask and so far I'm very happy. I feel the in a month's time I will definitely know what my results will be but so far so good.
I want to say so far my melasma has improved at least 50%. I highly recommend it. There is downtime but it's worth it.
Thank you for it!!
That's perfect! Now I definitely will go for it! Do you think that only the doctor can put this mask on my face?
Dear Annasnafal,
Unfortunately yes only a doctor's office can apply the mask. I even asked if they can save some from the jar for touch ups and they wouldn't they said, "Why you can't take it home and apply it yourself."
I don't know if your from California but I went to Dr. Pilest's office in Orange County.
Just make sure if you do it, PROTECT YOUR FACE!! Put sunblock as recommended and put a hat on. Just to get the best results.
I've been taking the pill for over 10 years and the last 3 years I started to get melasma from it. Once I realized what was causing it I stopped the pill. It's been 10 months and my pigmentation hasn't changed at all, it's still getting worse so apparently my hormones are still messed up. My dermatologist gave me some things to try in the mean time until my body hopefully "fixes" itself. Oh, and I think IPL's is great.
I live in Arizona and have tried Cosmelean and Obaji with Trentoin. The Cosmelean worked for about 6 months. I wouldn't mind doing it again but it is costly. I had Fraxel and Thermage for wrinkles and it seemed to aggrivate the condition so be careful! I'm getting ready to try IPL. I hate this condition, I have been using physician's formula yellow concealer stick to correct and cover the brown splotches. It's the only thing that will cover it for me. I'm very discouraged!
I just noticed melasma above my upper lip after getting a sunburn this last weekend. I am currently on birth control pills and am seriously considering stopping them. I bought a 2% hydroxyquinone bleach cream and started using it today. I am wondering what others have used for different birth controls other than estrogen & progesterone based hormonal pills. For me people don't notice until I point it out, but I feel like I have a mustache, on top of that I'm getting married next month and I don't want to look horrible in the pictures. Have any of you found a particular brand of foundation that works well for melasma above the lip? Thanks, and I know how you all feel!
DermaBlend by Vichy is the only thing I found that covers the dark spots.
Wow Ladies i cant belive how many of us are dealing with this terrible skin condition!! i just came back from vacation and already noticing my problem areas getting darker. its been tough because my fiance doesnt understand my complex with this and he seems bothered when ever i mention it he tells me it could be something much worse so it makes me feel like im a vain person. im considering Cosmelan i've heard good things about it so far will see.
Good Luck to All of U!
Teresa,
Just did the Cosmelan, loved it!! I would definitely recommend it.
Y.
Hi,
I have melasma, too.
I've tried several expensive treatments without any result: amelan, dermamelan, hidroquinone 4% cream, laser, and other topicall treatments.
Recently, I found, after many hours searching on the net, that the cause may be a high level of male hormones on my body. I have also a tendency to hirsutism.
And that an internal disease can not be treated with externall medication only.
I am now trying a natural progesterone cream and a natural medicin - saw palmetto pills 320 mg daily. The last one it's an anti-androgenic that blocks the production of "bad" testosterone also. It has no side effects, even for man.
I'll be back in a few weeks, to give a more complete feedback about this treatment.
Sara Tavares - Portugal
Hi Sara,
I'm Seing a Japanese Dermathologies here in Japan. I Started getting treatment since March and now my melasma is gone. Still taking 2000mg of vitamin C and Transinimo pills (facial skin whitening pills) 3x daily. My First treatment was YaG laser that made my melasma worst than it was for a month, the Derm explained to me it was normal just give it sometime. I continue on with my Vitamin C and Transinimo and with chemical peel, mask, ipl every two weeks and suprisingly my melasma vanished like it was never there. Kerase Cream to even up complextion and Obagi Skin protection sun sreeen works realy good. My derm advise me to reduce my ipl,chemical peel and mask to one a month. And im very happy. Please consult with your derm again.
Hi Teresita.
I had a VI peel 2 weeks ago and it made the melasma worse than it was before I got it. Did yours get better?
What mask are you using? Sounds like you got it under control. Good for you!
You mention a few things you've been using to help diminish the appearance of your melasma that I think other readers on RealSelf.com would like to know more about. First, would you be able to share the name of the company that manufactures Transinimo? I realize this may be a supplement that is only available in Japan, but I'm sure our readers will be interested in learning more about it. Secondly, you mention "Kerase Cream"--I'm wondering if this is a cream from Kinerase, as Kinerase is a popular brand with the RealSelf.com community. If you're able to share the specific product you've been using, that would be great--and appreciated! -Nancy
Hi,
I also have this problem. I was on the "pill" for only two weeks when I noticed dark spots on my face. The weirdest thing is that I did not get them on my cheeks or forehead. Any way, the dermatologist gave a hydroquinone 4% cream and it did not work as I thought. Then I went to Mexico and I got a IPL which is not expensive at all ($100 per session). My mom has had the same problem for so long and it seems that it got worse through the years and the sun exposure. The only way to get rid of this awful thing is using IPL treatments. I am also wondering if every birth control pill will do this to my face??... I'm not on the pill right now so I don't worry about it. However, I may have to go back because of ovarian cysts. My family doctor said that if a low hormone pill (Alesse) caused melasma on my face in two weeks, then every other pill will do the same thing especially if they are stronger. Does anyone know if this is true?? Thanks! .
Yes, it is very true. The pill is a bomb of hormones, estrogen, it unbalances your whole system and if you are prone to melasma, this will surely trigger it. Inform yourself before you go on the pill.
I also have this problem. I was on the "pill" for only two weeks when I noticed dark spots on my face. The weirdest thing is that I did not get them on my cheeks or forehead. Any way, the dermatologist gave a hydroquinone 4% cream and it did not work as I thought. Then I went to Mexico and I got a IPL which is not expensive at all ($100 per session). My mom has had the same problem for so long and it seems that it got worse through the years and the sun exposure. The only way to get rid of this awful thing is using IPL treatments. I am also wondering if every birth control pill will do this to my face??... I'm not on the pill right now so I don't worry about it. However, I may have to go back because of ovarian cysts. My family doctor said that if a low hormone pill (Alesse) caused melasma on my face in two weeks, then every other pill will do the same thing especially if they are stronger. Does anyone know if this is true?? Thanks!
It would make sense that if Alesse causes the pigmentation, to assume that almost any other pill would as well. Alesse must be low in estrogen, and the pigmentation that is occuring from the pill is hormonal (due to a higher doses of estrogen in your body.)
Just really be sure to be using a broad spectrum sun block every day (rain or shine...even if it's cloudy or cold). UVA radiation (the type that increases and caused pigmentation to darken)is simply daylight.
I would encourage you to read more on this at:
http://myfacialfacts.com/index.php/spf-protection/
There are some great suggestions on where to begin looking for good quality sunblocks (not all sun protectors are created equal and you need to know what to look for.)
Finally, a great book to look into for additional solutions for your cysts is "Women's Bodies Women's Wisdom" by Christianne Northrup, MD.
This book helped me tremendously with my case of uterine fibroids.
I hope this helps!
The Derma Divas
Melasma is a very emotional, frustrating skin condition. Unfortunately, there is no cure for this hormonally-generated condition, and it should be understood that it is chronic. The good news is that many of our patients are good responders to a depigmentation program that does NOT involve hydroquinone or downtime. It's called Cosmelan by Mesoestetic. The product works by breaking down the melanocytes (the cells that hold the color/pigment) and the home maintenance program attempts to continue this process as well as suppressing the formation of new melanocytes. Daily, diligent sunscreen use is a must regardless of which treatment plan a person chooses. We no longer treat this condition with lasers inasmuch as we have more consistent outcomes with Cosmelan. Usually, by the time women come to us, they have spent much money and time on failed modalities. They are skeptical with good reason. We don't over-promise results, but it definitely has been a good option for those patients looking for an improvement.
View answers from Lori Haney, R.N.I did the IPL for melasma and it made it worse! The dark spots are much darker now than ever. I was never told this was a possible side effect. Very unhappy with treatment!
Research supports that heat (sun exposure, humidity, lasers, IPL's) etc. may potentially make melasma worse by acting as a trigger. Therefore, we do not treat melasma with lasers because of this potential adverse effect of not only being ineffective but making the pigmentation worse. Using depigmentation products is a much more safer, predictable way of treating this stubborn condition.
View answers from Lori Haney, R.N.L. Haney, RN
I have had melasma for about 4 years now. Nothing over the counter, no matter how expensive (I believe I've spent thousands trying to find a miracle), has worked to alleviate the spots on my face--cheeks, nose and above my lips. However, my recent approach to melasma has really made a difference and I thought I would share with everyone.
It is my understanding that you can never 'get rid' of melasma. Even if you fade the spots now, sun exposure can bring it back at any time. My dermatologist prescribed Tri-Luma cream that slightly faded my spots over the past couple of weeks. Although, it is my understanding that you can only use the cream a maximum of 8 weeks. I don't know what will happen beyond that...
The most important change to my regime is liberally applying UVA/UVB-blocking sunscreen every morning. In addition, after a few hours of applying sunblock at home, I begin to use Peter Thomas Roth mineral SPF 30 during the day before walking out the door into the sun or driving home. Also, I make sure to use hats and stand in the shade as long as possible when we're outside or at the beach...
New York dermatologist and RealSelf.com pro, Dr. Jordana Gilman, shared her thoughts on Tri-Luma Cream on the Beauty Cred blog http://www.realself.com/blog/melasma-tri-luma-cream-dr-jordana-gilman.
According to the Tri-Luma site, while results should be expected within 8 weeks, there is no harm in going beyond the 8 week time period--however, as always, it's best that you consult your physician on this.
I have a question, hopefully someone answers it. Some people say that estrogen is what causes melasma. Some others say is the progesterone. My mother received some hormonal therapy by taking some progesterone pills which made her melasma worse. However, when the doctor gave her some estrogen her face did not get more dark spots. I just want to know what hormones causes melasma, or is it the combination of both?
Hi Liz,
My first treatment was what is called Q-Switch Yag Medlite Laser. It made my melasma worst than it was before i had the laser. It made my brown spot twice darker.I had to wear mask to cover my face when i go to work. I was very un-happy because i thought that laser will make it go away and not worsen. However, my Derm told me not to worry it will go away; just give it some time to do what it supposed to. For the mean while I continue the use of Kenirase Cream and Obagi Sun Protection and every two weeks a Ipl,Chemical Peel and Mask. My melasma start to clear it took six week and now my melasma is gone. My Derm reduce my treatment of chemical peel,mask and ipl to one time monthly vice every two week because of the great improvement. Also my Daily Vitamic C and Transinimo Face Whitening.
For those who have question about Transinimo, Yes Its only available in Japan but last week when i was at my treatment I ask my Derm for something similar She will do a research and I will see her Saturday. I will get back with on that.
Just came across Dr. Thienna Ho's book about lightening skin color via a diet rich in sulfur. I posted about it at the BeautyCred blog, http://www.realself.com/blog/skin-lightening-diet-hyperpigmentation-dr-thie.... What do you think? Can you alter skin color just by altering your diet? Have you tried a sulfur-rich diet? Let us know!
Hi I truly know how you feel. After my first child I also got malasma over my upper lip and I have been dealing with it but it has been challenging. I just ordered this product called meladerm, it is suppose to be very safe. I wish you all the best on finding a product that works for you. Be very careful that product your using has been known to cause cancer. Try to look online and research.
I tried meladerm,blemish be gone,etc... and every single product they got online.I spent thousand of dollars and i regret because none of the product i ordered helps me. Best thing to do i see a Derm before purchasing products that only good from advertisement.
Melasma is a very common condition associated with much frustration and disappointment over failed treatments and wasted money. This darkening of the skin (pigmentation) is related to hormonally-generated pigmentation. There is no cure and the condition is considered chronic. The goal should be improvement and suppression of pigment rather than a "cure." In our experience, Cosmelan has offered promising results. However, there is a small percentage that are still unresponsive to Cosmelan. Some practitioners have used Fraxel or Erbium laser treatments for melasma unresponsive to other modalities. We choose not to use non-ablative (no downtime, non-invasive) lasers because of the poor, inconsistent outcomes. Good sun protection is the best, least expensive way to control this condition. Do your research and seek out a treatment or practitioner that sets realistic expectations, honest feedback, and before/after photos.
View answers from Lori Haney, R.N.Lori Haney,RN
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I have suffered with moderate melasma for a few years now. I have a dark patch under each eye (panda eyes) and dark patches on my upper lip. I'm 29 with quite fair, freckly skin. I'm english but live in the middle east, so avoiding sun exposure is not an option unfortunately. But I stick religiously to factor 50 on my face.
I have tried mild facial peels, microdermabrasion and meladerm, all without any success.
Three weeks ago I started the Amelan depigmentation treatment (also called Dermamelan in some places). The dermatologist applies a mask to your face which you leave on for 8 hours. You then wash it off and apply a milder cream twice daily for a number of weeks.
The treatment has worked brilliantly - my melasma has reduced by around 80-90%. It has also blitzed most of my freckles which is an added bonus.
One word of warning though, I was told that there was no downtime with this treatment but I looked (and felt) pretty ridiculous for a good 6-8 days afterwards. The day after my treatment my face was a little pink but fine, but days 2-7 my face was bright pink and very sore - even putting on moisturiser was very painful. I also peeled loads - but this is probably why it worked!
I'm SO glad I did it but in retrospect, wish I had taken a week off work!