There are 6 types of pigmentation that are commonly seen in the clinical institution. These are sun (aging) spots, freckles, melasma, nevus of Hori’s, birthmarks and post inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH). It is important to establish an accurate diagnosis for successful treatment.
Melasma is commonly seen amongst the Asian, characterised by the presence of brown or greyish brown patches, usually starts at the sun exposure of the face such as cheeks, forehead and upper lips. The pigment is symmetrical. The causes of melasma are complex as related to genetic factors, hormonal factors, sun exposure, pregnancy, use of oral contraceptives and etc.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for melasma and most clients may have to be on treatment for many years. The treatment for melasma is complicated and will need to be individually tailored. The mainstay for treatment is sun protection using a broad spectrum sunblock, whitening creams, oral medicine, chemical peels, phototherapy with intense pulsed light (IPL) or laser.
It depends on the severity of melasma, treatment modalities, and most important, compliance to post treatment care. On average, most people will start to observe clinical improvement after 2-3 months after initiation of treatment.
