The melanocytes in the skin are responsible for creating darker skin. Melasma is a skin condition where melanocytes are activated, creating patches of brown or gray skin, usually on the face. Melasma usually occurs on areas that have more sun exposure like the forehead, cheeks, nose, chin and upper lip. Our dermatology team at LM Medical NYC offers melasma treatment to fade and even out patchy skin at our clinic in Manhattan.

Causes and Symptoms of Melasma

The exact cause of melasma is not known, but there are risk factors. Women are much more likely to have melasma occur than men, as almost 90% of melasma cases are women. Darker skin is at higher risk for melasma, but any skin type can have melasma outbreaks. Other risk factors include excessive sun exposure without sunscreen or protection, hormonal changes and pregnancy. Melasma can fade on its own, or treatment can help fade discolorations or dark patches on the skin.

Cosmetic Treatments for Skin Discoloration

Melasma does not pose a health risk or cause any uncomfortable side effects. However, many people with melasma are unhappy with the appearance of the dark patches on their face. Wearing sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats and avoiding the sun can help fade melasma. Other skin treatments available through a dermatologist include:

• Fading or bleaching skin creams
• Corticosteroid or tretinoin cream
• Chemical peels
• Laser skin resurfacing

If you have skin discolorations or brown or gray patches on your face, you may be experiencing melasma. World-renowned dermatologist Dr. Morgan at LM Medical NYC can diagnose your skin condition and will recommend a treatment plan. We offer effective skin treatments to cosmetically improve skin affected by melasma at our clinic in Greenwich Village. Contact our dermatology team today to schedule your skin consultation.