After all, is it possible to eliminate melasma permanently? Those who have these dark or brownish spots on their skin, usually on the face, are always looking for ways to get rid of this condition, which affects not only the skin’s appearance but also the well-being and self-esteem of those who struggle with melasma.
If this is your case, it’s important to know that melasma is a chronic condition and, therefore, cannot be completely eliminated. However, there are ways to control its progression and even reduce the appearance of the spots through dermatological treatments and proper skincare.
Keep reading this article to find out what you can do to treat melasma spots on your face. Check it out!
What is melasma? Dr. Szerman explains:
Melasma Treatment in Rio de Janeiro
Melasma is a skin condition that causes dark or brownish spots, usually on the face, which can worsen due to sun exposure, hormonal changes, and other factors.
Since melasma is a chronic disorder, it has no cure. However, there are treatments that can help control the spots and reduce their appearance. Some recommended treatments include:
- Chemical peel
- Dermatological treatment
- Cold CO2 laser
In addition, maintaining a daily sun protection routine is essential, using sunscreen with an appropriate FPS for your skin type, along with hats and sunglasses.
Treating melasma can be challenging and requires patience and commitment to skincare measures and treatments prescribed by a dermatologist.
Therefore, it is important to consult a dermatologist to find the most suitable treatment for your case.
What Can Remove Melasma? Is it possible to eliminate melasma permanently?
As mentioned above, no matter how effective a melasma treatment is, it is not possible to completely remove the spots. However, there are ways to reduce their appearance, making them almost imperceptible.
One option is chemical peeling sessions. This dermatological treatment promotes skin exfoliation and the removal of dead cells while also helping to lighten dark spots, stimulate collagen production, and support skin regeneration.
Another recommended treatment for melasma is Cold CO2 Laser. This is a deeper treatment that uses advanced technology, allowing the laser to penetrate the skin without generating heat, which contributes to a profound lightening of the spots.
CO2 Laser – Treating Melasma from the Inside Out
Although it is not possible to permanently eliminate melasma, treatments can make the spots nearly invisible. Among all the procedures available, CO2 Laser provides the best results for melasma treatment.
The CO2 Laser treatment works by emitting beams of light that penetrate the deeper layers of the skin, evaporating the melanin deposits responsible for the dark spots.
A specific protocol must be followed to ensure that, after this deep cleansing, the skin remains clearer. It is important to remember that individuals with melasma are prone to pigmentation, so proper control is essential.
Even with the best treatments available, melasma cannot be permanently removed, but the skin can be significantly lightened and properly managed. For this, a cold-action CO2 laser and an experienced medical professional are necessary.
The result? A more even skin tone with visibly lighter spots. The effects of the treatment can usually be seen a few days after each session, and collagen stimulation continues for up to eight months.
See the before and after results of melasma treatment with CO2 Laser at Clinica de Pele in Rio de Janeiro:
How Many Laser Sessions Are Needed for Melasma?
On average, 4 to 5 laser sessions are required, with intervals of 30 to 60 days between each session. However, the number of sessions and laser intensity may vary depending on each patient’s needs, skin type, and the characteristics of the spots.
It is important to highlight that CO2 laser treatment should be performed by an experienced dermatologist, who will assess the skin condition and the patient’s specific needs to prevent complications and ensure safe and effective treatment.
How to Control Melasma?
Melasma occurs due to a dysregulation in melanin production, mainly affecting the face. Therefore, it is essential to control the patient’s tendency to produce excess melanin.
One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through chemical peels combined with dermatological treatments.
The Cold CO2 Laser, on the other hand, works by breaking down melanin deposits in their deepest layers.
How Does Peeling Work?
Peeling is a treatment that can be physical or chemical, superficial or deep, so understanding how it works is crucial.
For melasma, medical-grade chemical peels are recommended as they act as highly concentrated treatments. These must be both effective and safe, as melasma-prone skin is already sensitive to pigmentation.
Chemical peels should be performed regularly, using specific medical-grade lightening agents that act from within, at all levels of melanin production.
Non-aggressive products are used, which remain on the skin for a few hours and usually cause mild to moderate peeling. Additionally, dermatologists often prescribe complementary skincare treatments to enhance results.
Chemical peels can be done every 15 days to once a month, and different lightening agents can be used throughout the treatment. Crystal peeling may also be combined for better results.
Summary of Melasma Treatment
Melasma is a chronic condition that requires regular treatment and specific procedures. Isolated dermatological treatments are often not enough for proper spot control and lightening.
Chemical peels provide a safe, ongoing treatment to manage melanin production. In more severe or resistant cases, laser treatments become necessary to target melanin deposits deeply and effectively.
By combining chemical and laser treatments, patients achieve superior skin brightening and better long-term control of melasma.
Melasma affects a growing number of people, especially in cities with high sun exposure and warm climates, making its management more challenging.
The loss of self-esteem caused by melasma can significantly impact daily life. That’s why it is crucial to seek a trusted dermatologist for proper treatment planning and ongoing care.
Contact:
Clínica de Pele is a traditional and specialized dermatological clinic in Rio de Janeiro for over 60 years, since 1969.
Dr. Szerman has over 20 years of experience and teaches other doctors.
