Melasma

Experience the transformative power of Dr. Azadeh Shirazi's clinically-proven and cost-effective melasma treatment, SkinBRIGHT®. Defined by the emergence of grayish-brown patches, particularly on facial skin, melasma often targets areas like the cheeks, forehead, bridge of the nose, upper lip, and chin. Dr. Azi’s signature SkinBRIGHT® is a comprehensive, customized solution to address and manage this common skin condition.

Learn More About SkinBRIGHT®

Woman with clear skin after melasma treatment in La Jolla.

What Melasma Looks Like:

Generally, the condition can be easily diagnosed by looking at the characteristic pigmentation on the patient’s face. In some cases, however, the doctor might recommend a minor skin test so that a more accurate analysis can be made, excluding other potential diagnoses. This is the first step of melasma treatment in La Jolla. Characteristics to look for include:

Brown or gray-brown patches on the skin
Patches on the face, especially the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip
Symmetrical distribution of patches
Patches vary in size and shape
No physical discomfort or itching sensations

What Causes Melasma?

Dermatologists list the following factors as the primary causes of melasma:

Sun exposure
Hormonal changes
Birth control medication
Hormone therapy

Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, MD specializes in treating all forms of skin conditions and disorders including effective melasma treatment in La Jolla.

The Doctor Behind Our Melasma Treatments: Dr. Azadeh Shirazi

At the La Jolla Dermatology and Laser Surgery Center, Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, MD specializes in treating all forms of skin conditions and disorders including melasma. Dr. Shirazi is a distinguished board-certified dermatologist, who offers personalized dermatological care at La Jolla Dermatology and Laser Surgery Center. With degrees from the University of Kentucky College of Medicine and a Research Fellowship at Harvard Medical School’s Wellman Center for Photomedicine, her expertise spans medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology. Notably, her groundbreaking research at Harvard focused on light and laser therapies, emphasizing inflammation reduction. With a decade at Scripps Clinic, she’s trained peers and treated skin cancers. Her extensive experience in melasma treatment in La Jolla sets her apart.

Treatment of Melasma

The right skin care regimen is usually the first line of defense in the treatment and management of melasma. The application of various skin care products, some of which contain hydroquinone, helps in lightening the complexion and prepping the skin for in-office procedures to eliminate melasma. Dr. Shirazi is a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist and through her years of training and experience has come to develop specially formulated brightening pads. After a decade of searching for the best therapy to combat melasma, she has created skin-lightening pads with hydroquinone, kojic acid, and natural skin-calming ingredients that will leave your skin free of discoloration, looking brighter than ever.

After prepping the skin with a customized lightening regimen, Dr. Shirazi may recommend various treatments such as the Halo Laser, Collagen PIN Microneedling, chemical peels, Dermal Infusion with Brightening Serum, or Sciton’s MicroLaser peel to further enhance your skin’s complexion.

At the La Jolla Dermatology and Laser Surgery Center, we do not advocate the ‘one treatment fits all’ approach. We make a careful evaluation of each individual patient while trying to understand the nature of their melasma. Your initial consultation with the doctor will be extremely helpful in carrying out an accurate analysis of your case and customizing your melasma treatment in La Jolla. Contact us to schedule a consultation today.

Woman with a nice skin tone after melasma treatment in La Jolla.

Tips to Prevent Melasma:

Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, even on cloudy days.
Wear protective clothing, such as wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.
Seek shade during peak sun hours, typically between 10 AM and 4 PM.
Avoid tanning beds and excessive sun exposure.
Use gentle skin care products to avoid irritation.
Incorporate antioxidants into your skincare routine to combat sun damage.
Maintain a healthy diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
Stay hydrated to support overall skin health.
Consult Dr. Shirazi for personalized advice on preventive measures.

Join SkinBRIGHT for Melasma Treatment

The SkinBRIGHT Membership program at La Jolla offers a comprehensive approach to treating melasma and other pigmentation disorders. This 12-month medical treatment includes physician-prescribed medication, a tailored skincare regimen, and continuous support for members. The program, led by Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, focuses on understanding each individual’s skin condition and providing a customized treatment plan that evolves throughout the year based on the patient’s progress and changing needs. Experience the results of closely supervised melasma treatment in La Jolla.

Members of the SkinBRIGHT program enjoy various perks, including simple melasma management, quarterly virtual consultations with Dr. Shirazi, a fully customized skincare routine, and automatic delivery of skincare products and prescriptions. This ensures consistent care and convenience. Since melasma treatment requires ongoing, consistent care, the SkinBRIGHT program is a valuable tool to brighten and maintain the radiance of your skin.

Woman Before And After Treatment For Melasma On Face

Woman Before And After Melasma Laser Treatment

Melasma FAQs

Can melasma be cured?

While there is no permanent cure for melasma, it can be managed with the right treatment plan. Treatments focus on lightening the dark patches and preventing further pigmentation. This includes using topical agents like hydroquinone, tretinoin, and corticosteroids, as well as procedures like chemical peels, laser therapy, and microneedling.

Is melasma harmful?

Melasma is not harmful and does not cause any physical discomfort. It’s primarily a cosmetic concern and does not lead to skin cancer or other serious health issues. However, it can have psychological impacts due to its visible nature, particularly on the face. Therefore we offer melasma treatment in La Jolla to help increase your confidence and happiness.

Are there any home remedies for melasma?

While home remedies cannot cure melasma, certain natural ingredients may help lighten the skin to some extent. These include aloe vera, turmeric, apple cider vinegar, and lemon juice. However, please consult Dr. Shirazi before trying any home remedies, as some ingredients can irritate the skin or cause allergic reactions.

Does melasma go away on its own?

Melasma may fade over time, especially if it is related to pregnancy or birth control pills. However, in many cases, it persists or recurs, especially if triggered by sun exposure. It’s important to have a long-term management plan in place.

Can men get melasma?

Yes, men can also get melasma, although it is less common than with women. In men, melasma is also associated with sun exposure and genetic factors. The treatment and management strategies are similar for both men and women. We offer melasma treatment at La Jolla for men and women alike.

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