It happens to a multitude of women, those brown patchy discolorations that appear on the skin. Women experience a plethora of skin changes during their reproductive years. Many of these changes are due to UVA/UVB exposure, which increases the production of melanin, external hormones and internal hormones. One of these common skin conditions is melasma.

Melasma is a skin condition that appears as brown patches on the upper cheeks, forehead, upper lip and chin. It typically occurs in women between the ages of 20-50 years of age. It’s also characterized as hyperpigmentation and is usually treated by 4% hydroquinone, a skin lightening agent that is topically applied to the skin.
Hydroquinone works by blocking tyrosinase, an enzyme in the skin that produces melanin, while it lightens the skin, fades dark patches and evens skin tone. By using hydroquinone combined with an in office treatment of kojic acid, it performs as one of the most effective treatments to lighten skin affected by melasma. Hydrafacial with britinol is recommended.

Most people who use hydroquinone have darker olive skin and are usually from Hispanic, Asian, and Middle Eastern descent. They most commonly develop melasma during pregnancy, take birth control pills or are regularly exposed to the sun. Hydroquinone is also used for acne spots, age spots and freckles.
There are a few precautions that should be taken while using hydroquinone. You should avoid the sun, cover the skin and use a sun block with SPF 50 or more.
Some women may experience side effects like temporary skin irritations, mild itching or redness. To avoid severe discomfort, you should perform a skin test. You can do this by applying a small amount of hydroquinone cream to an area of skin that is open or bruised. If the area becomes inflamed, extremely red or unbearably itchy, you should stop using the product immediately. If you have asthma or have skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis, it may not be safe for you to use it, so consult your doctor if you’re considering using hydroquinone.

Stop by our offices if you are experience melasma, we can treat your skin to have you seeing results in a few weeks time.
We’re open 10AM to 6PM Tuesday – Friday and 10AM – 4PM on Saturdays for your convenience. Drop by and talk with us.

Advanced Skin Fitness
2928 Oak Lawn Avenue
Dallas, Texas 75219
(214) 521-5277