Melasma, frequently dubbed “’the mask of pregnancy”, is a common yet often misunderstood skin condition predominantly affecting women. Characterised by patches of darker pigmentation, particularly on the face, melasma can considerably impact confidence and self-esteem. At The Lovely Clinic, located at 8 Beauchamp Pl, London SW3 1NQ, we offer cutting-edge, scientifically validated treatments, combining medical precision with aesthetic elegance to restore radiant, evenly toned skin.

What is the Main Cause of Melasma?

Melasma primarily stems from hormonal fluctuations. Pregnancy, contraceptives, hormone replacement therapies, and menopause are common triggers. UV exposure also worsens melasma by stimulating melanocyte activity. Genetics play a significant role, highlighting a complex relationship between lifestyle, environment, and heredity.

How Do I Get Rid of My Melasma?

Addressing melasma requires a holistic, multi-layered strategy combining medical-grade treatments and meticulous skincare practices. At The Lovely Clinic, we use tailored therapies targeting the root hormonal imbalance, followed by carefully selected oral and topical medications.

Oral Treatment: Tranexamic Acid

One revolutionary treatment for melasma involves oral tranexamic acid. Traditionally known for controlling bleeding, recent dermatological studies highlight its powerful efficacy in pigment reduction. By inhibiting plasminogen, tranexamic acid significantly reduces melanin synthesis, fading stubborn pigmentation patches remarkably quickly. Administered post-blood test confirmation, it provides a systemic approach to long-term melasma management.

Topical Excellence: Obagi Skin System

Complementing oral treatments, topical applications such as the Obagi skincare range offer remarkable pigment-correcting results. Obagi products incorporate medically approved ingredients like hydroquinone, glycolic acid, and tretinoin, effectively suppressing melanin overproduction while rejuvenating the skin. This transformative topical therapy ensures brighter, smoother, and visibly clearer skin.

Peel Treatments: Obagi Blue Radiance Peel and Cosmelan Peel

Chemical peels represent another powerful treatment avenue for melasma.
The Cosmelan Peel is an intensive depigmentation treatment. It significantly reduces melasma by inhibiting tyrosinase, the enzyme involved in melanin production. Cosmelan offers profound, long-lasting results after just one treatment, supported by ongoing homecare products to maintain the outcome.

Advanced Laser Therapies: Clear Silk and Halo

For persistent pigmentation, laser treatments provide a highly effective resolution. Clear Silk utilises advanced non-ablative laser technology, gently heating deeper layers of skin to disperse pigmentation and boost collagen production. Typically, patients require a series of 6 Clear Silk sessions, spaced around four weeks apart, experiencing visibly brighter skin without downtime.
Alternatively, the Halo Hybrid Fractional Laser combines ablative and non-ablative wavelengths, precisely targeting superficial and deep pigmentations simultaneously. Most patients see optimal results after 1 to 2 Halo sessions, with pigment correction, improved skin texture, and profound revitalisation achievable within a minimal recovery period.

Can Vitamin C Remove Melasma?

Vitamin C, particularly Obagi’s Professional-C Serum with 15% L-ascorbic acid, celebrated as a powerful antioxidant and brightening agent, indeed contributes beneficially towards melasma management. However, while effective as a supportive treatment, Vitamin C alone rarely resolves melasma entirely. Its protective antioxidant properties bolster overall skin health, reducing oxidative stress caused by UV exposure and enhancing collagen synthesis, resulting in improved skin texture and a subtly brighter complexion. For optimal results, Vitamin C is best used in combination with more targeted medical treatments offered by dermatological specialists at The Lovely Clinic.

What is the Difference Between Hyperpigmentation and Melasma?

While melasma falls under the broader umbrella of hyperpigmentation, significant differences distinguish the two. Hyperpigmentation refers broadly to any skin darkening resulting from excess melanin, typically from sun exposure, inflammation, or injury. In contrast, melasma specifically involves symmetrical dark patches triggered predominantly by hormonal factors and UV sensitivity, typically manifesting on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and chin.
Understanding these nuances ensures tailored treatments, enhancing effectiveness significantly.

Maintaining Results with Daily Care

Post-treatment care forms an integral pillar in maintaining pigmentation-free skin. Broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreens, meticulous skincare routines, regular dermatological follow-ups, and lifestyle adjustments, including sun-avoidance and dietary antioxidants, collectively ensure long-lasting results.
Melasma might be persistent, but with comprehensive, scientifically-backed approaches, clear and radiant skin is absolutely achievable.

Book Your Consultation Today

Ready to transform your skin and reclaim your confidence? Book your personalised consultation at The Lovely Clinic and start your journey towards flawless, radiant skin today. Our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Experience personalised care and transformative results at The Lovely Clinic. Rediscover the confidence of flawless skin, gracefully enhancing your natural beauty as you age.