Melasma, also known as chloasma, is characterized by irregular patches of dark skin on the face. These tan or brown patches usually occur symmetrically on the cheeks, upper lip, nose, or forehead. The symmetry of melasma distinguishes it from other conditions that cause the darkening of the skin.
Melasma is a common condition and is found more often in women. Those with darker skin types (including Indians, Hispanics, Middle-Easterners, and North Africans) are more prone to melasma than those with lighter complexions.
Within a patch of melasma, pigment-producing cells (called melanocytes) are increased in number and each melanocyte produces more pigment (called melanin). Increased melanin in the skin leads to the tan or brown coloration.
The cause of melasma is not fully understood. However, genetics, hormonal changes, and sun exposure are known to play important roles. For example, melasma often occurs with pregnancy, hence the term “mask of pregnancy.” Oral contraceptives can also trigger melasma.
Although there are some diseases that cause similar changes in the skin, melasma itself has no association with internal disease.
Melasma is a pigmentary condition of the face affecting mostly women but also some men. It may be related to birth control use, pregnancy or the sun. Dr. Rokhsar has been able to effectively treat melasma with Fraxel Laser technology. His findings have been published in a major medical journal. He has recently presented his findings on this subject at New York Dermatologic Society as well as several national laser conferences.
Melasma is the appearance of patchy brown, tan, or blue-gray facial skin discoloration that typically appears on the upper cheeks, upper lip, forehead, and chin. Melasma affects women between the ages of 20 to 50, and although possible, is rarely seen occurring in men. An estimated 6 million women in the United States live with melasma and is most common among pregnant women. People who have olive or dark skin such as those with Hispanic, Asian, or Middle Eastern descent have a higher risk of melasma. Although the exact cause of melasma is unknown, some believe factors including pregnancy, birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, family history of melasma, race, antiseizure medications and certain other medications may play a role in developing this skin condition.
The invention of the Fraxel: Dual laser is a sensational breakthrough in the treatment of melasma. Fraxel:Dual is a subset of the Fraxel family of lasers. Fraxel Dual is equipped with a special wavelength that specifically targets hyperpigmented areas, dark sunspots, and melasma. Until recently, creams and sun avoidance have been the mainstay of melasma treatment. The invention of the Fraxel:Dual laser provides those with melasma a faster, more effective way to erase the mask of melasma they have been hiding beneath. It is important to know that even if you decide to have Fraxel:Dual treatment for your melasma, you must be very careful to avoid excessive sun exposure to the face. The smallest amounts of sun exposure can cause melasma to get worse. Melasma is a very frustrating disorder to treat, but treatment with Fraxel: Dual along with sunblock can provide dramatic skin lightening and even the disappearance of melasma.
* Results may vary
As a highly-trained laser specialist and dermatologic surgeon, NYC’s Dr. Rokhsar is one of the leading melasma treatment experts in the area. Using Fraxel melasma treatment in the comfort of his Long Island office, he can help you regain your smooth, youthful skin. Contact Dr. Rokhsar today to schedule your consultation.
Upper East Side Manhattan Office
121 East 60th Street, Suite 8AB New York, NY 10022
(212) 285-1110
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Long Island Office
901 Stewart Ave, Suite 240, Garden City, NY 11530
(516) 512-7616
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Dr. Cameron Rokhsar is the founder and owner of New York Cosmetic Skin & Laser Surgery Center. With degrees from Harvard University and NYU, along with multiple publications and media features, the double board-certified dermatologist and laser surgeon proudly shares his expertise with patients in Garden City, Manhattan, and those who fly in to receive treatments at his offices. Dr. Rokhsar has worked extensively with Vbeam laser, Thermitight, Coolsculpting, and Fraxel laser technology, as well as Allergan and other injectable brands. He pioneered the Non-Surgical Nose Job and continues to be a leader in his field.
Dr. Rokhsar was chosen by
magazine as a top dermatologist in its Best Doctors 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023 issues.
