the difference between pigmentation and melasma
What is the difference between pigmentation and melasma and how do you treat it?
While both conditions manifest as darkened patches on the skin, their origins and treatments can differ.
Looking for that beautiful Lindsay Lohan porcelain skin canvas? Read on.
Spot the difference Pigmentation vs. Melasma
What is pigmentation?
Pigmentation refers to any discoloration of the skin resulting from an overproduction of melanin. Melanin is the pigment responsible for skin colour.
This can manifest as;
Sunspots
Freckles
Age spots
Pigmentation is often triggered by excessive sun exposure, inflammation, or skin injuries. These spots can appear anywhere on the body and vary in size and intensity.
What is Melasma?
Melasma, on the other hand, is a specific type of hyperpigmentation characterised by symmetrical, brown to grey-brown patches, predominantly on the face.
Melasma can affect areas like the;
Cheeks
Forehead
Nose, and;
Upper lip.
Dubbed the "mask of pregnancy," melasma is often linked to hormonal fluctuations, making it prevalent among pregnant women or those on birth control. Sun exposure can exacerbate melasma, intensifying its appearance.
Melasma can be triggered internally, making it unpredictable in its occurrence. It can be caused by hormonal imbalances and is often linked to;
Pregnancy
Menopause
Birth control
IVF
Endometriosis, and;
Elevated cortisol levels.
Many factors can exacerbate melasma without clients realising, including;
Sun exposure
Heat
Incorrect skincare
Exercise (such as Bikram yoga), and;
Saunas.
Since melasma can be driven by internal factors, treatment should be viewed as a long-term management plan, rather than a one-time fix. Ongoing maintenance is essential, as melasma has a high recurrence rate.
What tailored skin treatments help correct Pigmentation and Melasma?
Addressing these skin conditions requires targeted treatment strategies:
For General Pigmentation
Topical Agents: Ingredients like vitamin C, Vitamin A, Kojic Acid and niacinamide are renowned for their skin-brightening properties. These agents work by inhibiting melanin production, thereby reducing the appearance of dark spots. Incorporating serums or creams containing these ingredients can yield noticeable improvements over time.
Laser Treatments: Advanced laser therapies, such as the Hollywood Spectra Laser, offer a non-invasive solution to target and shatter pigmented cells, the body’s lymphatic systems flush them out. This treatment not only addresses pigmentation but also enhances overall skin tone and texture. At LUUM Aesthetics, our Hollywood Spectra Laser sessions are designed to rejuvenate the skin, providing a luminous complexion.
For Melasma
Chemical Peels: The Dermamelan Mesoestetic Peel stands out as a potent treatment for stubborn melasma. This peel combines active ingredients that inhibit melanin production and promote cell turnover, effectively lightening hyperpigmented areas. Our clients have experienced significant improvements with this treatment, noting a more even and radiant skin tone.
Microneedling with Radiofrequency: Sylfirm X is an innovative treatment that combines microneedling with radiofrequency energy to target pigmented cells associated with melasma. This procedure not only reduces pigmentation but also stimulates collagen production, enhancing skin elasticity and resilience. LUUM Aesthetics offers Sylfirm X treatments tailored to individual skin concerns, ensuring optimal results with minimal downtime.
Hollywood Spectra Laser: The Hollywood Spectra laser is a game-changer for melasma, offering a gentle yet effective solution for stubborn pigmentation. Using advanced Q-switched laser technology, it targets excess melanin without damaging surrounding skin, making it safe for all skin types. The laser breaks down pigment into tiny particles, allowing the body to naturally eliminate it over time. It also reduces inflammation, a key trigger for melasma, and boosts collagen for overall skin rejuvenation. Unlike aggressive treatments, it minimises the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, making it a reliable option for long-term melasma management with minimal downtime.
And of course…
Sun Protection: The Ultimate Shield
Regardless of the condition, diligent sun protection is non-negotiable. Daily application of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher shields the skin from harmful UV rays. It will also help to prevent further pigmentation.
We recommend clients with melasma use a mineral tinted SPF 30 or 50. This helps to create less heat in the skin, by physically blocking UVA and UVB rays. The Rationale Tinted Serum is a great option.
We have some amazing sunscreen options by Skinceuticals, Mother and Rationale online and in the Perth Clinic.
Embrace wide-brimmed hats and seek shade during peak sun hours to fortify your defence against hyperpigmentation.