Melasma Treatment
Melasma Treatment (Latest Pico technology)
The Solihull Medical Cosmetic Clinic under lead Dr Sagoo is proud to have taken delivery of the latest in laser technology in the world a new laser that can treat a common pigmentation skin disorder called melasma. Using pico second laser technology and a specific wavelength of energy 755 nm to target the melanin pigment-producing cells on the surface of the skin and the deeper dermal layer we can achieve successful improvement of melasma with a reduced number of treatments and minimal downtime of a few days.
Finally an alternative to using creams, peels and lotions in the management of this difficult condition. We are the leading clinic in the UK in treating Asian skin we are also one of the first of a handful of clinics in the UK to have this new type of laser technology.
What is Melasma?
Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by brown or grey-brown patches, typically occurring on the face. It often appears on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin, but can also develop on other areas exposed to the sun.
Causes of Melasma:
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Hormonal Changes
Melasma is often linked to hormonal changes, which is why it's common in pregnant women (sometimes referred to as the "mask of pregnancy") and those taking oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy
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Sun Exposure
Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun can trigger melasma or exacerbate existing patches. This makes sun protection crucial
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Genetics
family history of melasma can increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
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Skin Type
It is more prevalent in individuals with darker skin tones.
Symptoms of Melasma
- Brown or grey-brown patches on the skin
- Typically symmetrical, occurring on both sides of the face
- No other symptoms, such as itching or pain
Melasma Treatment Options
While melasma is not harmful, many people seek treatment for cosmetic reasons. They may go to cosmetic establishments which do not have the relevant laser experience or the specific laser to treat melasma as these specialist devices are costly. As a result treatments including creams, peels and treatments which do not improve this complex condition may be offered which incorrectly in fact make it worse with rebound hyperpigmentation from the trauma to the skin.
Dr Sagoo a laser skin specialist for nearly 20 years with a wealth of experience in treating Asian skin and pigmentary disorders has invested in the best lasers in the world to achieve the desired results. We are an advanced medical skin specialist clinic and have treated many patients with pigmentation and melasma.
We recognise that you cannot cure melasma completely and our management of melasma is different with emphasis on using laser devices to treat superficial and deep dermal melasma coupled with medical-grade skin creams and doctor-only prescribed medications such as 4% hydroquinone or tranexamic acid.
Current Melasma Treatment Options Include:
- Topical Treatments: Hydroquinone, retinoids, vitamin C, ascorbic acid and corticosteroids can help lighten the patches.
- Chemical Peels: These can remove the outer layers of skin and improve the appearance of melasma.
- Sun Protection: Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen is crucial to prevent worsening of the condition.
Unfortunately, these treatments are very slow and superficial as they do not penetrate into the deeper layers of pigmented skin.
Warning About Melasma Treatments At Other Non-Medical Clinics
We do not recommend treating melasma at inexperienced clinics/ salons. This is a medical condition that should be under the supervision of a cosmetic dermatologist.
Other clinics offering treatments such as:
Microneedling, plasma pen, and using the wrong laser device with the incorrect wavelength with little understanding of how the skin responds will lead to very dissatisfied patients affecting self-confidence.
Dr Sagoo regularly sees patients who have had their skin damaged by other clinics and our clinic has to rectify the problems but also build self-confidence again. This can take ages to reverse and improve.
Melasma management requires a full assessment by a doctor and skin analysis excludes other pigmentary conditions to diagnose melasma.
Pico Laser 755nm (NEW)
The clinic has taken delivery of the latest laser in the management of melasma with Pico technology.
Pico lasers are a type of laser technology that delivers ultra-short micro pulses of energy to the skin to shatter and fragment pigment particles into tiny granules with minimal disruption to the pigment-producing cells and minimising rebound hyperpigmentation. This is more effective than traditional lasers as the pigment may be superficial and deeper under the skin and pico lasers can treat both superficial and deep pigmentation in fewer sessions with longer-lasting results than peels or skin-lightening creams which give a very slow improvement in this condition.
The advantage of the 755nm wavelength is a longer wavelength that can penetrate deeper in the skin to remove superficial melasma pigmentation located in the epidermis and the deeper melasma pigmentation located deeper in the dermis in a matter of 2-3 treatments.
- Targeted Treatment: Pico lasers can specifically target melanin pigments in the skin without affecting the surrounding tissues. This precision helps in breaking down the excess pigmentation responsible for melasma.
- Reduced Downtime: Compared to traditional lasers, pico lasers typically cause less thermal damage to the skin, resulting in a shorter recovery time. Patients may experience less redness and swelling post-treatment.
- Collagen Stimulation: In addition to targeting pigmentation, pico lasers can stimulate collagen production, improving overall skin texture and tone, which can be beneficial for patients with melasma.
4. Treatment Sessions: Effective management of melasma often requires multiple treatment sessions. Pico lasers can be adjusted in intensity and frequency based on individual skin response, making them versatile for personalized treatment plans. In approximately 3 treatments spaced 4 weeks apart, we can achieve a significant noticeable improvement,
5. Combination Therapy: Pico lasers can be combined with other treatments, such as topical agents or chemical peels, to enhance overall results in managing melasma as well as skin rejuvenation.
The clinic uses the best skin analysis system in the. World the “Visia Skin Analysis System “ which analyses multiple levels of the skin to identify the type of pigmentation and the depth so we know where exactly the pigmentation problems are. This forms the basis for the areas to be targeted with the laser.
We carry out Visia Skin analysis with every patient assessment for melasma
Mechanism of Action
Lasers work by delivering focused light energy to the skin, which selectively targets melanin, the pigment responsible for dark patches in melasma. This process can break down excess melanin, allowing the body to absorb and eliminate it.
Treatment sessions
Typically, 3 sessions are required to achieve optimal results, with treatment intervals of 4 weeks.
Melasma Treatment Costs
For the Pico laser, it depends on the area requiring treatment, with costs starting from £400. Approximately three treatment sessions are required usually.
Other Types Of Laser In Our Clinic:
Pulse Dye laser
These lasers target blood vessels and can help reduce the redness associated with melasma and may also lighten hyperpigmented areas.
Q switched Nd Yag
These lasers are effective for targeting pigment by delivering a quick high-intensity pulse of light that breaks down melanin in the skin.
Nd Yag
These lasers penetrate deeper into the skin and are used in melasma
IPL limelight
Broadband light is absorbed by melanin in the superficial layer of skin.
Erbium Yag /C02 fractional lasers
These lasers penetrate deeper into the skin and can treat pigmentation but also can improve skin texture lines and wrinkles.
Non-ablative fractional erbium yag is best for darker skin
To book a consultation and full assessment with Dr Sagoo please contact the clinic on 0330 041 7494.
