It is a medical-aesthetic procedure to solve the problem of hyper-pigmentation of the skin (dark coloration of the face that appears slowly). Common in people over 30 years of age and in the elderly, and it is more common in women than in men (1 in 20 is a man). It is an important cosmetic problem that affects quality of life, self-esteem and has social implications, particularly in cultures where the smooth and smooth appearance of the face is a sign of health.
It affects the forehead, cheeks, cheekbones, upper lips and sometimes appears as patches that extend to the neck.
Hyper-Pigmentation is also known as melasma, chloasma, pregnancy spots or liver spots.
Causes
Melasma or Blemish is a genetic condition that is stimulated by:
- Heat and cosmetics (phototoxic reactions).
- Pregnancy.
- Unknown factors.
- Contraceptive hormones (progesterone pills and injections).
- Sun
It can also be caused by:
- Liver diseases.
- Pituitary tumors.
- Addison's disease.
- Hemochromatosis.
- Medications.
Indications
Who can treat melasma or blemishes?
- Any patient, man or woman with dark spots on the face.
Indications
Who cannot treat melasma or blemishes?
- People who have had a surgical intervention in the area to be treated and at least four months have not passed.
- People with certain diseases or pathologies, which is why their doctor must take a previous medical history.
- If corrective treatment or plastic surgery has been performed and at least four weeks have not passed.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about treatments for spots or melasmas.
How long does melasma treatment last?
The spots may disappear after the second or third month of treatment, the treatment to remove melasma or spot can last more than nine months.
When can I have the treatment?
It can be done at any time of the year.
How do I know which product is the best in my particular case?
After the medical examination and evaluation of your case, our aesthetic doctors will recommend the best product depending on your needs and your personal budget.
After the treatment can I put makeup on?
You can put cosmetics and makeup without restrictions.
Should I take any personal care after applying treatment creams?
It is advisable to use sunscreen with a factor greater than 50 and hats; protection against ultraviolet light is one of the main factors for a good result.
Will the treatment last a lifetime?
The treatment lasts as long as you continue to protect yourself from light and heat.
Should I use sunscreen for the rest of my life?
Yes.
Who is hydroquinone contraindicated in?
People allergic to the product.
What is the most effective method to treat melasma or blemishes?
According to the most recent scientific studies with statistical validity, the formula of doctors Kligman and Willis, which combined hydroquinone with retinoic acid and a steroid, remains the best way to treat melasma or blemish.
What is skin depigmentation therapy like?
After an evaluation and carrying out a particular medical examination, therapy is started in a gentle way, especially in those people with sensitive skin. If very abrasive substances are used, we run the risk of creating contact dermatitis with skin irritation, leading to a major hyperpigmentation problem called post-inflammatory pigmentation.
PRODUCTS
What products are used for spots or melasmas?
- Gentle cleansing cream.
- If the skin is dry, moisturizing creams.
- Sun protection creams all year round, if there is sun exposure the application should be every two hours.
- We use chemical peels before starting the treatment with depigmenting substances to begin to destroy the pigment stored in the skin.
- The most important part is depigmentation, which acts by inhibiting the formation of melanin by the melanocytes of the skin. Depending on the type of melasma, different products and their mixture will be used, especially the one originally described by doctors Kligman and Willis, composed of the triple topical combination of hydroquinone, tretinoin and dexamethasone, demonstrating optimal results since the most recent studies demonstrate its effectiveness.
ADVERSE EFFECTS
What side effects does the application of hydroquinone have? With the application of hydroquinone, it is normal for a sensation of itching and redness to appear in the treated area, as well as slight peeling of the skin. Although it is generally a safe medication, side effects include skin irritation and contact dermatitis, which are treated with mild topical steroids. In people with very dark skin and who use high concentrations of hydroquinone, a phenomenon called ochronosis may appear. THERAPEUTIC ACTION What should be expected from the treatment?
• The results will be seen after a few months of the procedure.
• Remember that melasma or blemish is a slow-onset process and it is also a cure.
• Must follow medical orders rigorously.
• It is very important to avoid the sun, use sunblock creams and follow the regimen established or recommended by your doctor.
• Remember that the intention of creams is to depigment, improve the color, appearance and quality of the skin, hydrate and moisturize it, prevent irritation and return it to its normal conditions.
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