Melasma is a particularly difficult condition for the sufferer and many despair of ever seeing an improvement. However, innovative skin treatments and programmes can indeed make a difference, as one patient in Bristol found out.
The skin condition causes brown spots to appear on the face, causing noticeable areas of pigmentation or coloration.
It is not medically harmful, but can cause distress and a lack of confidence as it is very difficult to hide, even with heavy makeup.
Melasma is most common in women between the ages of 20 and 40 and usually affects the cheeks, bridge of the nose, forehead and upper lip. Due to the shape of the pigmentation and the fact that it can be caused by hormonal changes or fluctuations during pregnancy, it is also known as ‘pregnancy mask’ although it can happen at any time. Ultra violet light and even strong light from light bulbs can also stimulate this dark pigmentation. The condition is more common in those with darker skin; particularly those of Asian, Indian, Hispanic, North African or Middle Eastern origin.
Treatment Review
I contacted Dr Quinn’s clinic to help treat a severe case of melasma that I’d been suffering from for over 5 years. Dr Quinn suggested the Obagi NuDerm system, an initial 18 week intensive course that had provided some great results with other patients.
I gave it a go, with limited expectation as nothing else I had tried had done anything to help.
However, from the first week I could see improvement, which continued right throughout the course. I’m almost at the end of the 18 weeks now and the results are nothing short of miraculous.
Moreover, I have been very impressed with the service provided by the clinic, from the receptionist who is both welcoming and knowledgeable, to Dr Quinn who from day 1 was supportive, easy to talk to and a credit to his profession.
Other Treatment Options
Chemical peels or laser treatments such as IPL might also be very beneficial. Every patient is different, so a consultation is required in order to have a face to face doctor assessment to determine the best course of action.
QUINN CLINICS – LONDON – BRISTOL
Dr Quinn is a qualified aesthetic doctor with specific expertise in dermal fillers and botox® and two clinics based in Clifton (Bristol) and Blackheath/Greenwich (London)
Quinn Clinics offer a full range of cosmetic, medical and laser skin treatments, and as well as injections, offer the latest laser technology including IPL laser and CO2 fractional laser and radio-frequency treatment.
Please call 0117 924 4592 or email info@quinnclinics.co.uk for further information or to book an appointment.