Melasma – help!

Dr. Irwin
June 18, 2009
i have had a malsma from the last 5 to 6 year and i have been treated with all kind off creams recommneded by dermatoligist.and i realy don't know what to do it doesn't get batter by time ............i don't know what to do.........

I sympathize because melasma can be incredibly hard to treat – especially this time of year at the summer solstice when the UVA rays are at their maximum for the year.   Without knowing what prescriptions were used, how long, etc., it’s hard to know how to help you.

 In general here’s what makes melasma worse:  1) any sunlight/light – even light coming through windows in your house or car so keep melasma from any direct light and wear a full brimmed hat whenever outside; 2) Any pregancies (be especially careful while you’re pregnant) and birth control pills (find an alternative method); 3) anything that irritates your skin and even prescription creams to treat melasma can sometimes make melasma worse just by irritating it.

 In general here’s what makes melasma better: 1) a ton of sunscreen that blocks UVA well – I really recommend that you get either 3% Mexoryl and 10-20% zinc (you can buy on this site if you want) and then use both at the same time; 2) staying out of direct light as much as possible this time of year especially; 3) light peels done in series by a doctor’s office experienced with melasma in the fall/winter; and 4) prescription "bleaching" creams like Triluma as long as you don’t get irritated by them.  I hope you have a dermatologist who can help you!!  Dr. Irwin

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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