Melasma is a skin condition caused by the excessive accumulation of melanin in the skin, leading to dark patches or spots that appear darker than the surrounding skin, ranging from light brown to dark brown. It is often chronic and can be difficult to treat. Melasma can occur due to several risk factors, such as:

• Sunlight: UV rays, infrared rays, and visible light from the sun can trigger the production of melanin.
• Heat: Prolonged exposure to infrared radiation, such as for chefs who work in front of stoves, can stimulate the development of melasma.
• Hormones: Hormonal changes, such as during pregnancy or while taking birth control pills, can cause melasma.
• Genetics: If close family members, like parents or siblings, have melasma, there is a higher chance that it will occur in the next generation, especially in individuals with darker skin.
• Skin Inflammation: Inflammation or skin injuries can cause increased melanin production, resulting in melasma.
• Other Factors: Certain medications, such as the anti-seizure drug Phenytoin or photosensitizing drugs, can trigger melasma. Additionally, conditions like thyroid disorders or ovarian tumors can also contribute to melasma development.

Melasma can be classified into four types based on the depth of pigmentation in the skin:

1. Epidermal Melasma (Superficial Melasma): Characterized by dark brown patches with well-defined borders.
2. Dermal Melasma (Deep Melasma): Characterized by light brown or grayish patches with poorly defined borders.
3. Mixed Type Melasma: A combination of both superficial and deep melasma.
4. Indeterminate Type Melasma: Found in individuals with very dark skin, where the exact location and color of the melasma are difficult to distinguish.

Additionally, there is a condition called Telangiectatic Melasma, which involves the proliferation of capillaries in the dermis, causing visible broken capillaries that form distinct patches on the face. These capillaries trigger the production of melanin, leading to the development of melasma. This type is often seen in individuals who have long-term sun exposure or who frequently use topical steroids or hydroquinone.

Since melasma is a condition that cannot be completely cured and can recur, prevention and avoiding triggers are key aspects of treatment.

1. Identify the Cause and Avoid Triggers: This includes avoiding irritants or stopping certain medications like birth control pills that may be contributing to the development of melasma.
2. Avoid Sun Exposure: Protect yourself from sunlight by using a sunscreen that is suitable for your skin type and applying it regularly.
3. Topical Treatments and Medications: Using creams and oral medications specifically designed to treat melasma is the primary method of treatment.
4. Additional Treatments: These may include exfoliating melasma with acids, using injections that reduce melanin production, or laser treatments as supplementary options to enhance the effectiveness of the primary treatment.

At our clinic, we offer a comprehensive melasma treatment program designed to address every type of melasma. Our team of specialists will assess your condition and select the most appropriate treatment for you.

Melasma treatment at our clinic is divided into two main categories:

1. Topical Treatments and Oral Medications:
   • The topical treatments contain whitening ingredients such as Alpha Arbutin, Kojic Acid, and others.
   • Oral medications are used to help reduce melanin production.
2. Procedures with the Melasma Treatment Program (M Program):
   • M Peel: This involves applying a light acid on the affected area, leaving it for a while, and then wiping it off. The melasma gradually sheds as a result. This is ideal for superficial melasma.
   • M Meso: This treatment involves injecting a solution that helps reduce melanin production and exfoliates skin cells directly into the melasma area. This is best for deeper melasma and vascular melasma.
   • M Pico: Laser treatment that breaks down melanin pigment, making it easier for the body to eliminate or causing it to flake off as scabs. This is suitable for all types of melasma.
   • M Master: A combination of M Peel, M Meso, and M Pico, working together to address all types of melasma in a single session.