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Get Your Melasma Treatment in New York City Done By World Renowned Dermatologist, Debra Jaliman, MD

Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by the presence of brown or brown-grey patches with irregular borders and uneven dark pigmentation, primarily on the face. These areas are flat but are darker than your natural skin color. It is a pigment disorder that is accentuated by sun exposure. It is rarely observed on the neck or arms. This condition predominantly affects women and is infrequently seen in men. Typically, it is seen in adults aged 20 and above, continuing until the age of 40 or older. Genetics plays a significant role; as many as 50 percent of the affected patients have a family history of the condition. Although the exact cause often remains unknown, triggers such as pregnancy, birth control pills, cosmetics, hormones (estrogen, progesterone), certain medications (like anti-seizure medication), and sun exposure are commonly associated with melasma. Even hormone replacement therapy can contribute to the development of this condition. Postmenopausal women who are given progesterone with estrogen may develop melasma. Those who are given estrogen alone do not. Melasma is considered a pigment disorder and, while it does not pose any harm to a patient's health, it is an aesthetic problem for many that significantly impacts their sense of well-being, confidence, and quality of life.

Once a proper diagnosis is established, numerous treatment options are available, including topical creams, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser therapy. Dr. Jaliman has developed her own triple action cream, which combines the potent prescription lightening agent hydroquinone with tretinoin (retinoic acid) to effectively even out the complexion.

Our Revlite laser is an exceptional solution for melasma. This groundbreaking laser treatment gradually breaks down hyperpigmentation and excess melanin in the upper layer of the skin over time, allowing for its gradual reabsorption by the body. This laser treatment is suitable for all skin types and does not result in scarring, scabbing, or downtime. It is crucial to utilize sunscreens that provide sun protection against both UVA and UVB rays to prevent further damage to the skin. We recommend an SPF 30-50 sunscreen with a high concentration of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

Dr. Jaliman has successfully treated a wide range of patients with melasma, including those with challenging cases, achieving excellent results. As a specialist in this area, with her expertise and skill, she can give you advice and design a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. She will provide thorough explanations and provide you with comprehensive information on different dermatological therapies. Her staff will take pre- and post-procedure photos to document your transformation. Call her NYC dermatology office at to schedule an appointment for your melasma. You will be happy that you did.

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What is melasma?

Melasma is a skin disease which causes brown skin discoloration on the face. It is commonly referred to as the "mask of pregnancy" due to its prevalence among pregnant women.

Where on the face does melasma occur?

The affected areas of the face typically include: above the upper lip, cheeks, forehead, chin and nose. It is usually seen in a symmetrical distribution.

What causes melasma?

The development of melasma is more likely in individuals with dark hair, dark eyes and a darker skin tone, as they possess a higher number of melanocytes (cells responsible for producing pigment) in their skin. Hormonal changes and exposure to ultraviolet light contribute to the onset of melasma. Therefore, even individuals who have never been pregnant but are taking birth control pills may experience this condition.

Are there different types of melasma?

There are three distinct variants of melasma; epidermal melasma, dermal melasma, and mixed melasma. Epidermal melasma exhibits a positive response to treatment, while dermal melasma does not because the pigment is deeper in the skin. On the other hand, mixed melasma, which combines superficial and deep elements, displays a moderate responsiveness to treatment.

Are there any symptoms associated with melasma?

Melasma is just skin discoloration at the affected site. It is flat and not raised. There is no itching, burning, stinging, or pain associated with it.

Can an IUD (intrauterine device) cause melasma?

Certain IUDs used for birth control contain hormones. They release a small amount of progesterone into the bloodstream. In some patients, this may trigger melasma.

Can LED screens worsen melasma?

It has been found that sitting in front of a computer screen and other devices, like cell phones and TVs which emit blue light, can exacerbate melasma. Blue light is part of the spectrum of visible light. To safeguard your skin, you can purchase shields for your devices.

Can melasma worsen if I'm inside but sitting by a window?

Exposure to UVA light through a window can also darken the skin and worsen melasma. To prevent this, it is recommended to either apply sunscreen or avoid sitting by the window.

What can I do to prevent melasma?

To prevent melasma, it is crucial to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor of SPF 30 to 50 on a daily basis, regardless of the weather conditions. Ultraviolet light can penetrate the earth's surface and reach your skin even on cloudy and rainy days.

Are there other precautions I can take?

Additionally, if you anticipate prolonged sun exposure, wearing a hat with a brim of at least 2 inches is recommended. Certain companies make sun-protective clothing, including hats made from specialized fabric that has received the Skin Cancer Seal of Approval. Brands include Coolibar, Brananain, BloqUV, Callaway Apparel, Columbia Sportswear, Denali, and Fullsand. This fabric has a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating of 50. It is also important to reapply your sunscreen if you’re going to be sweating or swimming, to ensure complete coverage of the face.

You also need to apply the correct amounts of sunscreen, making certain to cover your entire face without missing a spot. When selecting sunscreen, opt for one that is water-resistant for at least 80 minutes. Look for a high concentration of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide in the sunscreen's ingredients. Dr. Jaliman recommends sunscreen with a 15% zinc oxide concentration, such as EltaMd UV Sheer. This particular formula also contains hyaluronic acid, providing additional hydration and moisture. It also contains powerful antioxidants like Vitamin C to help prevent free radical damage to minimize signs of aging. Proper skin care plays a crucial role in the treatment of melasma. Some doctors recommend tinted sunscreen with iron oxides because they also block visible light. In addition, wearing UV400-blocking sunglasses can be beneficial. For optimal protection, consider wraparound sunglasses. If feasible, it is advisable to avoid direct sunlight during the midday hours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and seek shelter in shaded areas.

Is there a need for specialized special tests to diagnose melasma?

Melasma can be diagnosed by a board-certified dermatologist through a simple visual examination, without the need for any specialized tests.

What are the available treatments for melasma?

Topical skin products, such as creams, serums, and pads can effectively treat melasma. These products contain prescription-strength ingredients like azelaic acid, Niacinamide, retinol, hydroquinone, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, Vitamin C, citric acid, retinoids, and tranexamic acid. The product formulations are creams, serums, and pads. A personalized skincare routine is developed for each individual patient based on their skin type. Pregnant women can use some of these products but not all. Shipping is available for these products and we take orders from anywhere across the continental United States. Additionally, there is also special makeup that can match the patient's skin color to conceal the melasma while it is being treated.

Are there prescription topical medications for melasma?

Tri-Luma cream is a safe and effective prescription medication that Dr. Jaliman and many dermatologists use it in their practice, to treat melasma. It contains an anti-inflammatory, 4% hydroquinone, and a retinoid. It is used every night to treat melasma and is FDA-approved to reduce the appearance of dark spots associated with melasma. Improvement in the appearance of the skin may take 4-8 weeks. Occasionally, a person may get irritation from the ingredient hydroquinone and develop some inflammation in their skin ( dermatitis). This is more likely with a sensitive-skinned individual or a person with eczema or other skin conditions. It can easily be treated with an OTC hydrocortisone cream.

What happens if topical prescription treatments don’t work?

If topical prescription treatments are ineffective, there are other options available for treating melasma. Dermatologists can perform a combination of procedures such as microdermabrasion, or a light chemical peel using glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acid. These treatments can cause very light shedding of dead skin cells in the upper layers of the skin. They can improve the texture and overall appearance of the skin with little to no downtime. This is a nice addition to the other treatments which have more sophisticated technology. You will notice changes in your skin after a few sessions.

How is microdermabrasion used for melasma?

Microdermabrasion employs a handpiece with a diamond tip, and effectively exfoliates the skin, which makes it an effective method to improve melasma. This non-invasive and gentle procedure eliminates small bumps and imperfections and aids in achieving a smoother complexion. Within a span of 15-20 minutes, it successfully eliminates many of the dead skin cells, many with a darker tone on the skin's surface. The benefits are that it evens skin color and improves the texture of the skin. It requires a series of treatments.

Can lasers be used to treat melasma?

The Revlite laser, a highly effective laser, can be utilized for the treatment of melasma. This laser is safe for individuals with darker skin tones. Multiple sessions, typically six or more, may be required to achieve optimal results. Each patient is unique and requires a different number of treatment sessions. The number of treatments depends on how dark the discoloration is, how deep the pigment is, and the natural color of the skin.

Can IPL (intense pulsed light) devices be used to treat melasma?

IPL devices have been utilized by certain medical practitioners in other clinics and other doctors for the treatment of melasma. This approach poses a potential risk to the patient and has yielded unsatisfactory outcomes. The application of IPL heats the skin and may exacerbate the condition of melasma. Extensive articles and studies have demonstrated that it can induce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, leading to darker and aggravated pigmentation following treatment.

Can a Fraxel laser be used to treat melasma?

A Fraxel laser can also be utilized for the treatment of melasma and other sunspots but it requires a few days of recovery time. During this period, individuals may experience some redness, peeling, inflammation, and swelling. These side effects typically subside within a few days to a week. It does require some aftercare with the application of a thick moisturizer and some ice to minimize swelling. Additionally, multiple treatment sessions scheduled one month apart may be required if this laser is chosen. The added benefits of this laser are its ability to remove sun damage as well as smooth fine lines and wrinkles. So, overall, it is an exceptional laser for facial rejuvenation as it improves pigment, minimizes pores, and stimulates collagen production.

Another laser, known as the Clear & Brilliant Permea, is akin to a mini Fraxel. This laser only necessitates four hours of recovery time. Multiple treatment sessions with this laser can be performed three weeks apart. It helps to even out skin color, improving texture and providing a radiant complexion. It has minimal downtime, making it suitable for individuals with busy lifestyles.

Can melasma be cured?

Melasma cannot be cured, but it can be safely and effectively treated. It requires ongoing maintenance as individuals who have had melasma are always at risk of developing it again. It is crucial for them to consistently take strict precautions when exposed to the sun.

Are there things that should be avoided with melasma?

It is advisable for people with melasma to avoid harsh chemicals, as they have the potential to darken the facial pigment. Waxing with hot wax should be avoided as it can irritate the skin and lead to darkening of the pigment. Scented soaps can worsen melasma because of the fragrance, which may cause irritation and skin darkening.

Does insurance cover melasma treatment?

Insurance policies do not provide coverage for melasma treatments as they are classified as cosmetic procedures. The price of the lasers, peels, and products will be discussed in detail. Our office offers a range of treatment options to accommodate various budgets.

What causes melasma?

Regretfully, melasma's precise underlying cause remains a mystery. Multiple factors can contribute to the development of melasma. The skin's melanin component is what gives the skin its color. The skin cells called melanocytes are in charge of making melanin. It has been discovered that stressed melanocytes that produce excessive amounts of melanin cause melasma. Blotchy, discolored skin patches that appear darker than other areas of the face are the visible result. Usually, the forehead, upper lip, and cheeks are where melasma patches show up. Although the fundamental origin of melasma remains unknown, certain groups of people are more susceptible to its emergence than others. Women make up the bulk of those who suffer from melasma. While melasma can affect men, only 10% of people with this skin ailment are men, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.

Additionally, people with dark skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types V and VI) and those with light to medium brown skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types III and IV) are likelier than those with fairer skin tones to develop melasma. It is because brown skin has more melanocytes than lighter skin, which means it has a higher potential for producing more melanin. Furthermore, this skin issue is more common in people with a family history of facial hyperpigmentation or melasma. Melasma development may have a hereditary component if there is a family history of pigmentation or melasma.

Certain circumstances raise the chance of getting noticeable black patches of melasma in the skin, even if the exact etiology of the condition is unknown. Two of the most significant variables that lead to the formation of melasma are sun exposure and hormonal fluctuations.

Sun exposure has been by far the most common cause of the start of facial melasma. UVB and UVA rays from the sun are examples of ultraviolet radiation that causes the melanocytes to generate more melanin. It is one of the many reasons it's crucial to use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50 or more daily and to practice total sun protection. To effectively stop melasma from returning following treatment, it is also essential to protect oneself from the harmful effects caused by these UV rays. Sun exposure, even minimal amounts, can make your melasma return.

Hormonal fluctuations have also been connected to the onset of melasma, namely an increase in the levels of the female sex hormones progesterone and estrogen. Due to their effects on the body's levels of estrogen and progesterone, pregnancy, oral contraceptives, birth control pills, and hormone replacement treatment have all been linked to melasma flare-ups. Because of the increased melanin and hyperpigmentation on pregnant women's faces, melasma is sometimes called the "mask of pregnancy." For patients with melasma, Dr. Jaliman frequently suggests stopping oral contraceptive pills which exacerbate this skin condition.

Thyroid disease and melasma have also been connected. Given that many people with melasma also have thyroid disease diagnoses, it is currently believed that thyroid problems may be the cause of melasma for some individuals. Research has indicated that individuals with melasma have higher levels of serum TSH, anti-thyroglobulin, and anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies. Melasma patients have four times the frequency of thyroid disease compared to the general population.

What are the best melasma treatment options in NYC?

You have several good options if you have melasma and are looking for effective treatments in New York City.

  • Topical Treatments: To lighten dark patches, dermatologists recommend prescription creams containing hydroquinone, tretinoin, or corticosteroids. Non-prescription options may include products with kojic acid, azelaic acid, or vitamin C.
  • Chemical Peels: To exfoliate and lighten the skin, a dermatologist might suggest chemical peels with ingredients like glycolic acid or trichloroacetic acid.
  • Laser Therapy: Various laser treatments, such as fractional lasers or intense pulsed light (IPL), can target pigment and improve the appearance of melasma.
  • Microneedling: Microneedling involves using tiny needles to stimulate collagen production. It may be combined with topical treatments for better results.
  • Sun Protection: Daily sun protection is crucial. Dermatologists often emphasize broad-spectrum sunscreen, high SPF, and protective clothing and accessories.

The effectiveness of treatments can vary from person to person, so it's essential to consult with a dermatologist who can assess your specific situation and recommend a personalized plan. Your physician will consider factors like your skin type, medical history, and lifestyle to determine the most suitable approach for you.

Is Melasma Genetic?

Even while sun exposure and hormones are the main causes of melasma, various epidemiological research has revealed that hereditary factors also play a role in the development of melasma. Almost half of female melasma patients indicate that they have a family member with a skin ailment. Melasma is a genetic skin condition that many individuals battle with. It has been documented to run in families. Patients with darker-hued Fitzpatrick skin types are more prone to melasma than those with lighter skin types, and women are far more likely than males to acquire melasma. No single causative element causes melasma; several factors contribute to its appearance, including genetics.

Laser and Melasma

Melasma should be treated differently than other types of facial hyperpigmentation. All too frequently, people who undergo laser treatments in an attempt to alleviate their melasma end up with worsening hyperpigmentation and melasma. After melasma has been treated with a laser, removal of the condition may become even more challenging. The laser makes hyperpigmentation even more deeply ingrained in the skin's underlying layers.

Patients with melasma and hyperpigmentation were exacerbated by non-ablative and ablative laser treatments that are the focus of Dr. Debra Jaliman's practice. Dr. Jaliman treats melasma through Mesopeels, VBeam laser treatment, chemical peels, and Cosmelan peels to avoid aggravating the pre-existing hyperpigmentation. Created to treat melasma alone, Dr. Jaliman has now used the Cosmelan treatment to treat acne scars, sun damage, sun spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) through lasers, and other discolorations on the face, chest, neck, back, and other parts of the body, such as the arms and legs.

Is melasma treatable?

Preventative treatment is one of the finest melasma treatments because it may be a challenging skin issue. The mainstay of preventive treatment is usually reducing sun exposure and stopping the use of any medications and skincare products that might aggravate the condition of melasma. These preventive methods may help stop the onset of sun spots, age spots, and other hyperpigmentation-related conditions, including melasma. Dr. Jaliman advises using daily broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of 50 or higher. Shielding the skin against the sun's damaging UV rays is the most excellent approach to avoid the development of undesirable pigmentation, signs of early aging, and skin cancer.

The best treatment for undesired melasma or hyperpigmentation on the skin is frequently a special mix of topical skincare products and in-office procedures. To properly and successfully treat your melasma, Dr. Jaliman takes the time to create a personalized treatment plan that includes non-invasive procedures and specialist skincare routines to lessen the appearance of the melasma and stop any future hyperpigmentation. When you engage with Dr. Jaliman, she will thoroughly review your medical history, analyze your current skin condition, and develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific requirements and goals.

A variety of therapy approaches can address the appearance of melasma. Dr. Jaliman loves using Cosmelan peel treatments, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, topical skin lightening solutions, and microneedling using depigmentation serums to treat dark spots on the skin caused by melasma. Ultimately, your skin tone, skin type, and the sort of melasma you have will determine your best course of action. Melasma falls into three distinct categories: mixed, epidermal, and dermal.

The depth of the pigment was once measured using black light and a diagnostic procedure known as the Wood's lamp examination technique. Dr. Jaliman can diagnose melasma solely by clinical evaluation; no such lamp is needed to identify what form of melasma a patient suffers. The pigment in epidermal melasma cases is found in the epidermis, the skin's outermost layer. The dermis, or middle layer of the skin, is where the extra pigment is found in cases of dermal melasma. The pigment is present in both dermal and epidermal melasma in mixed melasma, the most prevalent type. Dr. Jaliman takes the necessary time to get to know you, your particular skin difficulties, your family history, and your cosmetic objectives to create a treatment plan that will best meet your needs and provide you with long-lasting, beautiful, clear skin.

Are Chemical Peels Effective for Melasma?

One kind of treatment for skin resurfacing is a chemical peel. Using a chemical solution, Dr. Jaliman removes the dead, discolored skin cells from the skin's outer layers delicately and efficiently. This chemical exfoliation treatment encourages the turnover of skin cells, clearing clogged pores and correcting discolored skin to show a radiant, healthy complexion. Every patient is unique, and Dr. Jaliman can customize a chemical peel treatment to meet their needs and objectives. It is possible to improve skin texture, minimize the appearance of acne scars or breakouts, and reduce sun damage, wrinkles and fine lines, and melasma, depending on the type and severity of chemical peel employed.

Dr. Jaliman frequently suggests a TCA peel to her patients with sun damage and pigment abnormalities like melasma or hyperpigmentation. TCA peels, or trichloroacetic acid peels, come in various intensities and combinations at her Upper East Side office. In addition to tretinoin and hydroquinone creams, Dr. Jaliman regularly uses chemical peel treatments as part of her patients' melasma therapy regimens. This combo method improves the effects of a chemical peel treatment by exfoliating the skin.

With careful manipulation of the extent and level of treatment, Chemical Peels can be tailored to address certain skin care requirements. Dr. Debra Jaliman, a board-certified dermatologist, has years of experience using chemical peels to give some of the world's most discriminating men and women smooth, clear, and attractive skin. During your appointment, you can talk to Dr. Jaliman about your unique cosmetic goals and skin concerns. Dr. Jaliman will tailor your protocol to your skin type, skin tone, and level of hyperpigmentation while creating your treatment plan.

What Is the Best Topical Skincare Cream for Melasma?

Dr. Jaliman frequently suggests a mix of on-site procedures and at-home skincare products to her melasma patients to produce a beautiful, clear, and long-lasting complexion and reduce noticeable dark spots.

Sunscreen for melasma

Sun protection is crucial for preventing melasma from developing in the first place and managing its appearance following Dr. Jaliman's treatment. Dr. Jaliman advises using broad-spectrum sunscreen at all times. Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects the skin from UVA and UVB radiation, which can cause the skin's melanocytes to create melanin. Melasma patients should be aware that light can penetrate glass surfaces and that failing to shield their skin from UV rays when operating a vehicle or seated next to a window may exacerbate their hyperpigmentation.

To ensure appropriate coverage and protection, one must reapply sunscreen every 1.5 to 2 hours. You can also apply many layers of sunscreen for optimal protection. Use the chemical sunscreen first, as it will seep into the skin. Chemical sunscreens function by causing a chemical reaction to occur in the skin due to the sun's heat energy absorption. Apply a layer of mineral or physical sunscreen after that. These sunscreens typically contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, which sit on top of the skin's surface and provide protection from UV radiation. One can ensure they are protecting their skin against the sun and preventing the formation or aggravation of melasma by using a layer of chemical sunscreen followed by a layer of physical sunscreen. A wide-brimmed hat is a great technique to protect yourself from the sun's rays and stop melasma from worsening or coming back.

Hydroquinone as a melasma treatment

A component in skin-bleaching lotions called hydroquinone aids in lightening melasma and hyperpigmented skin patches. There are no longer any over-the-counter products that contain hydroquinone. As part of her treatment plan for melasma and pigmentation, Dr. Jaliman can prescribe patients prescription-strength hydroquinone creams that she formulates herself. Retin-A and other active chemicals can be added to hydroquinone creams in varying amounts. Hydroquinones range in potency from 4% to 10% to address certain challenging pigmentation conditions. Dr. Jaliman might suggest skin-lightening substances like tranexamic acid or cysteamine as a bleach-free substitute for hydroquinone. According to research, cysteamine is a good alternative for melasma patients who prefer not to receive hydroquinone treatment.

Tretinoin cream for melasma

Dr. Jaliman may recommend the topical retinoid cream tretinoin (Tretinoin or Retin-A) as a treatment for hyperpigmentation. Since topical steroid creams may thin the skin, corticosteroids should only be used for a short period of time. Tretinoin, which is derived from vitamin A, helps accelerate the turnover of skin cells. This process helps to shed dark, discolored, and dead skin cells, while also promoting the growth of new, healthy skin cells.

Can melasma be mistaken for skin cancer? Melasma: Is it cancerous?

It can be challenging to know the difference between darkened skin caused by facial hyperpigmentation and more dangerous conditions like skin cancer if one is unsure of what to look for. To ensure there isn't any risk of skin cancer or melanoma, it is crucial to closely monitor any dark-colored or brown spots on the skin, regardless of whether pigmentation is caused by excessive sun exposure or other factors. Furthermore, variations in skin tone can cause patients to feel self-conscious about the changes to their skin, even when pigmentation isn't a sign of a more sinister condition. When you see a black spot on your skin, you should make an appointment to see a dermatologist who has undergone board certification, like Dr. Jaliman. By following this approach, healthcare professionals can rule out more serious skin diseases like skin cancer and devise a suitable course of treatment.

Is melasma permanent?

The extent of melasma varies depending on each person; the primary causes of the skin problem, the severity of the melasma, the amount of time the person spends in the presence of melasma triggers, and how the person's skin reacts to cosmetic treatments. Some people may notice their black spots disappear independently because various situations can cause melasma. When the baby is born, patients who develop melasma throughout their pregnancy may experience a return to clean skin as their hormone levels settle. Pregnancy-related melasma, however, frequently results in a permanent skin problem that needs to be treated to eliminate pigmentation. When people stop using birth control pills, the dark spots that cause them to develop melasma may go away on their own. Most melasma patients find that their darker skin patches will only disappear after cosmetic skin-lightening treatments.

Furthermore, melasma removal following certain laser treatments may become considerably more challenging. Laser treatments like IPL and Picosure may cause pigment to become more entrenched in the skin's deeper layers. That would intensify the appearance of hyperpigmentation and make topical skin-lightening treatments less effective.

Do I have melasma?

The easiest method to find out if you have melasma is to see a dermatologist, like Dr. Debra Jaliman in New York City, for a consultation. With years of expertise, Dr. Jaliman is a highly recognized board-certified dermatologist who has treated patients worldwide with the most cutting-edge non-invasive melasma treatments. Upon physical examination, a skilled physician can usually identify your melasma by examining the distribution and features of the darker skin. Besides identifying the hyperpigmentation, Dr. Jaliman may suggest a customized set of in-office treatments and skincare products tailored to your specific skin conditions and overall aesthetic objectives.

What leads to melasma?

Melasma develops when skin cells known as melanocytes are stimulated to create excessive pigment, resulting in the appearance of dark areas of skin. Melanocytes are extremely sensitive to UV radiation and possess memory. Melanocytes may be stimulated to create melanin by exposure to UV light from tanning beds, the sun, and other sources. Because of this, people receiving melasma treatment must wear sunscreen and other appropriate sun protection measures. If not, patients can notice that the dark patches connected to their melasma reappear even after effective treatment. Melasma has also been related to hormonal fluctuations; situations that result in these changes, including pregnancy, thyroid problems, and the use of certain drugs or birth control, may cause the condition to develop. When you visit Dr. Jaliman in her private dermatology office, she will suggest the courses of action that will best address your melasma and provide advice on appropriate aftercare measures so that you can preserve the best possible result and minimize the risk of a flare-up.

Is melasma contagious?

No. Melasma is not contagious and is not a skin disease. If they don't protect themselves from the sun, melasma patients may notice that their dark spots get bigger and darker and sometimes even extend to less frequently affected body parts like the chest and neck. However, melasma isn't a skin disease or another potentially communicable condition; it is a normal and mild skin disorder.

How to Treat Melasma?

Reducing and managing melasma can be challenging, mainly if you only use over-the-counter skincare treatments that address dark patches. Seeing a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist like Dr. Jaliman in NYC is the most efficient and successful way to treat melasma. She can create a customized treatment plan based on your unique concerns and suggest the best in-clinic and at-home topical skincare products to address your hyperpigmentation.

Dr. Jaliman can assist you whether you are dealing with melasma, sun spots, sun damage, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or any other type of hyperpigmentation. With years of expertise treating many of the most discriminating men and women worldwide for melasma and other types of facial hyperpigmentation, amongst other skin diseases, Dr. Jaliman is a well-known expert in cosmetic dermatology. For a personalized treatment plan for your sun damage, melasma, or body or facial hyperpigmentation, don't hesitate to contact us online or call our skin specialist clinic in New York City at .

FAQs

Here are some of the frequently asked questions.

Q: Are there any side effects associated with Melasma treatments in NYC?

Potential side effects include redness, irritation, and temporary darkening; however, these are usually temporary and can be managed by your dermatologist.

Q: How do I choose the right dermatologist for Melasma treatment in NYC?

Research and choose a board-certified dermatologist experienced in treating melasma. Read reviews and testimonials, ask for recommendations, and schedule a consultation to discuss your needs and concerns. If you need a specialist for your melasma treatment, you can trust our state-of-the-art office at Debra Jaliman MD.

Q: Is there a difference between melasma and other pigmentation issues?

Yes, melasma is distinct from other pigmentation issues. A specialist can accurately diagnose the condition and recommend a tailored treatment plan based on the specific type of pigmentation.

Q: What is the cost range for Melasma treatment in NYC?

The cost varies based on the type of treatment, the number of sessions required, and the provider's expertise. Please consult our dermatologist for a personalized estimate based on your needs.

Q: Is it safe to undergo Melasma treatment during pregnancy?

Many treatments are not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks. It's crucial to consult with a doctor for guidance on safe options during pregnancy.

Q: Can fractional laser treatments like Fraxel Dual be effective for melasma?

Fraxel Dual is a fractional laser that can effectively treat melasma by targeting pigmented areas while minimizing damage to the surrounding skin. Consult a dermatologist to determine if this is a suitable treatment for you.

Q: Is Juvederm or other dermal fillers recommended for Melasma treatment?

Juvederm and other dermal fillers are typically not used for melasma treatment. These are primarily used to restore volume and reduce wrinkles, and their use for pigmentation issues may not be effective.

Q: Are there different versions of Juvederm or fillers used for specific facial concerns?

Yes, different Juvederm and fillers are formulated for specific areas of the face and various concerns, such as volumizing cheeks or reducing fine lines.

Q: Can aesthetic procedures contribute to Melasma treatment?

Aesthetic procedures like microdermabrasion and chemical peels may aid skin rejuvenation, but they should be approached cautiously to avoid triggering or exacerbating melasma.

Q: Are there specific rejuvenation therapies for melasma available in NYC?

Rejuvenation therapies, such as laser skin resurfacing and microneedling, are available in NYC. Please consult our dermatologist to determine the most suitable option for your skin type and condition.

Say Goodbye to Melasma: Discover Top-Tier Treatment in New York

Say goodbye to the challenges of melasma and embrace new radiant skin with Debra Jaliman MD, your trusted specialist in top-tier Melasma treatment in New York. Our dedicated team of experts is committed to delivering unparalleled care personalized to your unique skin needs. If you have questions or want more information, call our office number at .

Call us to consult with our expert to acheive superb results

Location & Directions

Debra Jaliman, M.D Cosmetic Dermatologist and Botox NYC

931 Fifth Avenue (between 74th & 75th streets) New York, NY 10021

Our office is HIPAA compliant.

We ask that you reschedule your appointment if you have COVID.

  • American Academy of Dermatology
  • American Board of Dermatology
  • Mount Sinai
  • American Society for Dermatologic Surgery