Melasma in Dallas, TX

Melasma, also referred to as chloasma, happens when uneven patches of darkened skin show up on the face or forearms. These tan or brownish spots generally occur evenly around the brow, cheeks, nose, or upper lip. Melasma is not at all uncommon and is found more frequently in females. It may be due to sun damage or from hormonal fluctuations such as with menopause and pregnancy. Individuals with darker skin types are far more inclined to melasma compared to individuals who have lighter complexions. Dr. Phillip Dauwe treats melasma regularly at Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery in Dallas, TX, where he provides state-of-the-art laser technology, which may lessen the appearance of the condition. Call our office today to learn more.

The specific source of melasma remains unidentified. Specialists think that the dark spots in melasma might be caused by various factors such as olive-toned complexion, hormone fluctuations, family history of the condition, anti-seizure drugs, along with other medicines, which make skin more susceptible to discoloration following exposure to UV rays. Excess sunlight exposure is regarded as the chief cause of melasma, particularly in those with a hereditary predisposition to the condition. Studies have demonstrated that people generally develop melasma in the summertime when the sunlight is the most intense. In winter months, the hyperpigmentation will become less visible or milder.

Melasma is recognized by discoloration or hyperpigmentation mainly in the facial areas. Three kinds of ordinary facial patterns are recognized in individuals with melasma:

• Centrofacial – (center of your face) hyperpigmentation around the cheeks, upper lip, nose, chin, and forehead
• Malar – (cheekbones) melasma patterns amid the top of the cheekbone
• Mandibular – (jawbone) hyperpigmentation parallel with the jawline

How much does it cost?
Our practice accepts many forms of payment and sometimes offer discounts or promos on cosmetic packages. During your first visit, Dr. Dauwe or a member of our team can go over all your out-of-pocket costs and discuss all your options to help make your treatment affordable.

Will it come back?
Unfortunately, melasma is a condition that requires maintenance, which means multiple treatments may be needed over time to maintain optimal results. This varies from patient to patient, as some may experience lengthier periods of clearer skin than others. Dr. Dauwe also recommends seeing a highly trained dermatologist.

Can I go into the sun?
Individuals with melasma should do their best to practice preventive measures such as wearing a mineral-based sunscreen, medical-grade topicals, and wearing hats when in direct sunlight.

Other options?
In addition to laser treatments, Dr. Dauwe may also recommend intense pulsed light therapy (IPL). This is typically performed after the initial laser treatment once the skin has healed. IPL uses many different wavelengths to target hyperpigmentation and sun damaged skin.

In the event that you are affected by melasma and are fed up with attempting to conceal it with cosmetics, or if you spend extra money on store-bought remedies which don't give you the outcome that you would like, we welcome you to contact Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery to schedule an appointment. Melasma needs a special diagnosis so the ideal treatment can be provided. If the incorrect remedy is implemented, the skin might become worse. Dr. Dauwe can correctly diagnose and address melasma to supply you with a fantastic outcome.