Melasma and sunspots may appear similar on the surface, but they have distinct characteristics and require different approaches for optimal results.
WHAT IS MELASMA?
Melasma appears as brown patches of skin, often on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip caused by sun exposure and elevated estrogen levels. These patches tend to be large with distinct symmetrical patterns and most commonly affects women in their thirties
WHAT ARE SUNSPOTS?
Also known as liver or age spots, sunspots are flat, brown patches developed due to life long sun exposure. Sunspots appear on sun-exposed areas such as the face, chest, hands, shoulders, and arms and affects both women and men as we age
|
Treatments |
Melasma |
Sun Spots |
|
Sun protection |
✔ |
✔ |
|
Topical treatments (hydroquinone, tretinoin, AHA) |
✔ |
✔ |
|
Gentle resurfacing lasers (Clear and Brilliant) or peels |
✔ |
✔ |
|
Intense Pulse Light (IPL, BBL) |
Can make it worse! |
✔ |
|
Stopping hormone therapy |
✔ |
|
|
Prescription oral tranexamic acid |
✔ |
These recommendations are not sponsored. They are the result of Dr. Heather D. Rogers, MD evidence-based research and extensive clinical experience.
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