At Chernoff Cosmetic Surgery in Santa Rosa, we use combination therapy to effectively treat melasma. By using a combination of laser therapy with one of the following treatment options, Dr. Chernoff is able to effectively treat melasma on both the epidermal and dermal level.
Treatment options to be used in combination with laser therapy include:
- Cosmetic bleaching products
- Prescription bleaching cream
- Topical retinol
- Topical antioxidant products
- Chemical peels
- UVA/UVB sunblock, SPF 30 and higher
During your initial consultation, Dr. Chernoff will help you design a customized treatment plan to best achieve your skincare and cosmetic goals.
Are you interested in learning more about the melasma treatments offered at Chernoff Cosmetic Surgery in Santa Rosa? Schedule a consultation with us today!
What is Melasma?
Melasma is a skin condition that causes brown and/or gray-brown patches on the face. Melasma typically occurs in patches found on the cheeks, forehead, chin, bridge of the nose, and above the upper lip. It can also occur on other body parts that are frequently exposed to the sun, like the neck and forearms. The exact cause of melasma has yet to be determined, but it is likely caused by an overproduction of melanin, which is why people with darker skin tones tend to be more affected by melasma. Sun exposure and change in hormones are two major triggers for melasma, though melasma can also be a result of genetics.
Prior to any treatment or procedure, Dr. Chernoff or one of our trained and certified Health Care Providers determine if you are a candidate, review the risk and benefits, and provide all possible treatment alternatives.
Who Can Get Melasma?
Melasma is most commonly found in adult women, it is so common in pregnant women that it is often referred to as the “mask of pregnancy”. Men can have melasma, but only about 10 percent of people with melasma are male. People with darker skin tones and those with a blood relative with melasma are more likely to be affected by melasma.
How is Combination Therapy Used to Treat Melasma?
Melasma can be difficult to treat because the pigment typically occurs in both the epidermis and dermis. Combining laser therapy with topical melasma treatments allows melasma to be treated superficially and beneath the outer layers of the skin. Combination therapy targets the pigment to be broken up on both levels and eventually eliminated from the body through the natural elimination process. Treatments can vary depending on the patients and the severity of melasma. During your initial consultation, Dr. Chernoff will discuss and recommend the appropriate treatment plan to help you achieve optimal goals.
Are you interested in learning more about the melasma treatments offered at Chernoff Cosmetic Surgery? Schedule a consultation with our Santa Rosa office today!