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Melasma treatment in Vancouver BC

If you’ve been seeing patches of dark brown or gray pigmentation forming over specific parts of your facial skin, you should get it checked for melasma, as it is an asymptomatic skin condition that can develop in anyone. The most common areas where melasma seems to develop are the nasal bridge, forehead, cheeks, neck, or lips. It may also emerge around your forearms or shoulders. It is not a chronic condition and doesn’t cause any physical issues. However, the dark patches can grow and hamper your beauty. And since they mostly develop over the face, it will directly affect your self-image and social life.

What Causes Melasma?

Abnormal Melanin Production:

Scientists and doctors are yet to discover the exact underlying causes of melasma. It is believed that it is most likely caused due to abnormalities in the melanocyte cells which produce melanin. Melanin production defines the skin color of a person. Hence, the more melanin, the darker is the skin tone. This belief is backed by the fact that people with darker skin tones from the North African, African-American, Asian, Indian, or Mediterranean families develop melasma more often than others.

Exposure To Sunlight:

Excessive exposure to sunlight is also considered a cause as it stimulates the melanin production in our skin. In fact, people with melasma observe their dark patches worsen during summer even with moderate exposure to the sun.

Hormonal Changes:

Women going through pregnancy may develop such dark patches, in which case it is termed as chloasma. Using pills for birth control or hormone replacement has also been linked to the abnormal development of melanin.

How Does Dr. E Treat Melasma?

Melasma caused by medications or skin products is known to fade away after discontinuing their usage. But if the causes are genetic, the condition may last for decades and worsen over time, needing prompt melasma treatment. Dr. Ebrahim is experienced in treating such mild and severe cases with her unique medical aesthetic approach. 

There are various topical creams and gels available for melasma treatment in Vancouver today. These ointments are rich in hydroquinone, tretinoin, and corticosteroids, which can help reduce the appearance of the brown patches. After diagnosing your condition, Dr. Ebrahim can create a personalized medication plan to treat your melasma patches through-and-through and help you get the best melasma treatment in Vancouver, Canada.

Patients Before & After Consulting Dr. E

Patient Testimonials

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Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can prevent these patches from spreading or worsening in tone by practicing some easy skincare habits, such as:

  • Using high SPF sunscreens when outdoors
  • Wearing shading hats and sunglasses when under direct sunlight
  • Using mild skincare products that are non-comedogenic 
  • Avoiding waxing or shaving over the melasma patches

It most commonly occurs over the face on the nose, upper lip, or forehead. Sometimes it may develop over the jawbone or cheekbones. But the chances of any other skin region being affected by melasma are scarce.

The types of Melasma can be classified based on the number of skin layers affected. They include: 

  • Epidermal Melasma: when excess melanin is produced only in the superficial layers of the skin
  • Dermal Melasma: Here, the melanophages (cells that ingest melanin) develop throughout the skin layers
  • Mixed Melasma: This condition is a combination of both the epidermal and dermal symptoms

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