Prescriptions
Prescriptions
Prescriptions
A recent review of different treatments for the management of melasma suggests that topical bleaching agents such as hydroquinone should be offered as the first option.
A dermatologist can prescribe active ingredients to tackle melasma.
A few companies also offer an online consultation (for example, you can upload a picture of your melas
A recent review of different treatments for the management of melasma suggests that topical bleaching agents such as hydroquinone should be offered as the first option.
A dermatologist can prescribe active ingredients to tackle melasma.
A few companies also offer an online consultation (for example, you can upload a picture of your melasma areas) and will deliver active ingredients to you.
In the UK, I am aware of Dermatica, Skin+Me and Uncouth (There might be others - I don’t have any relationship with these companies).
Sunscreens
Prescriptions
Prescriptions
It is important to keep your face away from the sun and wear sunscreen to prevent melasma from worsening.
The British Skin Foundation recommends looking for SPF 50 or 50+ to protect against UVB, the UVA circle logo and/or 4 or 5 UVA stars to protect against UVA.
Sunscreens need to be applied every two hours and after swimming.
There are
It is important to keep your face away from the sun and wear sunscreen to prevent melasma from worsening.
The British Skin Foundation recommends looking for SPF 50 or 50+ to protect against UVB, the UVA circle logo and/or 4 or 5 UVA stars to protect against UVA.
Sunscreens need to be applied every two hours and after swimming.
There are chemical sunscreens and mineral (physical) sunscreens.
Recent research suggests that iron-oxide tinted sunscreens should be encouraged for melasma patients - this is because iron-oxide is a pigment that absorbs visible light.
Sun hats
Prescriptions
Umbrellas
Wearing a wide-brimmed hat is also very helpful.
There are many options in the high street, but if you are looking for a hat with sun protection fabric, I have found Solbari to be a good option (I don't have any relationship with this company).
Umbrellas
Umbrellas
Umbrellas
Not all umbrellas will protect you from the sun.
You need to look for those with UV protection, which generally have a black lining.
Books
Umbrellas
Books
The best book I have read with evidence-based advice on melasma is Skintellingent.
Another great book (not on melasma but on how science is carried out and communicated) is Science Fictions.