Melasma and Chloasma.
Melasma is a condition of irregular skin pigmentation that can affect people of any skin type although is more common in women and Mediterranean/Hispanic/Asian/African skin types.
It is thought to be a multifactorial problem with mixed reasons for occurrence.
Hormonal factors are thought to be important, as evidenced by the development of chloasma, a form of melasma that commonly occurs during pregnancy.
UV exposure is another common factor in the development of melasma.
Dr Brad can treat melasma-type pigment disorders with his active Q-switched laser, the DEKA QS4.
A test patch on a small area of skin is required before more extensive areas of skin can be treated and you should use a recommended skin lightening/bleaching product for 2-4 weeks before treatment and daily throughout treatment for best results.
The laser shatters melanin pigment molecules which are then gradually absorbed away by the skin’s lymphatic system over 6 weeks or so. Patients do not describe the treatment as particularly painful. The skin is cooled with chilled air before, during and after treatment. Multiple treatment sessions (often 3-6) at 4-6 week intervals are likely to be required for best results and periodic maintenance treatments are likely to be of benefit.
A typical treatment costs £250 per session on a “pay as you go” basis or £690 for three sessions paid upfront.