Melasma is a commonly occurring skin pigment condition that causes small brown and sometimes grayish spots to appear in concentrated patches on the face, most specifically on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and area around the lips. Melasma is neither dangerous nor life-threatening. Of all the skin conditions most often seen by dermatologists, melasma is one of the most stubborn and pervasive. These spots can quickly change the overall look and complexion and detract from a person’s personal and professional image.

Candidates

Men and women who are experiencing stubborn hyperpigmentation issues are likely candidates for melasma treatment and will be able to benefit from our services. Ninety percent of people who develop melasma are women, and the condition is triggered mostly due to hormonal changes. Birth control pills, pregnancy, hormone therapy, and anything that elevates or alters estrogen or progesterone levels is likely to produce this harmless but unwanted condition. Sun exposure is also responsible for melasma.

Procedure

Melasma may occasionally fade on its own over time, but it is also treatable through a diverse variety of options ranging from topical lightening agents such as Vitamin C, Azelaic Acid, Retinoic Acid, Trichloroacetic acid, Cyspera, Hydrochloric Acid, and other topical depigmenting agents. In addition, in our practice we perform a variety of chemical peels to quickly improve melasma. Few sessions are required to achieve optimal results. Additionally, lasers such as PicoWay® laser or Fraxel® laser can be beneficial.

Recovery

There is no downtime associated with melasma treatments. Some patients who undergo chemical peels and/or laser treatments may experience redness and swelling for a few days, but that will dissipate quickly. Because of the quick nature of the process, treatments can be performed over a long lunch break. Regular activities can be resumed immediately after.

Results

Patients will notice a change in their skin after about three months. Treatment results create an overall evening out and beautifying of the complexion. Because melasma is one of the most stubborn skin conditions seen by skincare professionals, topical creams, and vitamins may fall short of making lasting and noticeable changes. Sun exposure is often the triggering factor for melasma, and excessive UV rays stimulate the pigment-controlling cells. It is important that patients use SPF and wide-brimmed hats to protect their skin from the sun and keep their melasma at bay. A combination of sunscreen use, topical brightening and lightening agents along with chemical peels and lasers help to improve melasma.

Melasma: What is it and how can you treat it?

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ariel Ostad (@drarielostad)

Dr. Ariel Ostad has seen patients for this service from all over the tri-state area, including Manhattan, Midtown, the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side, Brooklyn, New York City, the Bronx, Harlem, Astoria, Queens, Long Island, New Jersey, Connecticut, and more. If you are interested in any of the services offered at the Office of Dr. Ariel Ostad, please contact us for more information.

Medical-grade skincare products that will help maintain and enhance your results

These skincare products combined with your treatment plan customized by Dr. Ostad will help enhance your results and improve your overall skin texture. Click on a product below to learn more.

ADVANCED LUMA CREAM

ADVANCED LUMA CREAM

CEG + FERULIC COMPLEX

CEG + FERULIC COMPLEX

KOJI BRIGHTENING PADS

KOJI BRIGHTENING PADS

Hyla Complex

Hyla Complex

GENTLE RETINOL COMPLEX

GENTLE RETINOL COMPLEX

Sun Shade Clear

Sun Shade Clear

Dr. Ariel Ostad has seen patients for this service from all over the tri-state area, including Manhattan, Midtown, the Upper East Side, the Upper West Side, Brooklyn, New York City, the Bronx, Harlem, Astoria, Queens, Long Island, New Jersey, Connecticut, and more. If you are interested in any of the services offered at the Office of Dr. Ariel Ostad, please contact us for more information.

Schedule a

Consultation

By submitting this form you agree to be contacted via phone/text/email.