Sun Spots/Melasma in Temecula, CA

Melasma, also known as chloasma, happens when irregular patches of dark skin show up on the face or forearms. These sun spots or brown patches generally occur symmetrically over the brow, nose, cheeks, or upper lip. Melasma is a common condition and is found more often in women. It can occur because of sun damage or from hormonal fluctuations, such as with menopause and pregnancy. Individuals with darker skin types have an increased risk for developing melasma than people with lighter complexions. Dr. Gloria Tumbaga regularly treats sun spots at Wellness Diagnostics and Medispa in Temecula, CA where we offer a number of treatments that can help reduce the appearance of the condition.

At Wellness Diagnostics and Medispa, Dr. Tumbaga provides several cutting-edge treatments for melasma with great benefits, including:

• Reducing the appearance of melasma (or sun spots)
• Lightening up darker patches
• Balancing skin tone
• Improving skin texture and overall skin health
• Offering multiple treatment options
• Most treatments are virtually pain-free and noninvasive
• Little to no recovery time

The best candidates for melasma treatment at Wellness Diagnostics in Temecula, CA are women and men who are currently bothered by dark patches or sun spots on the face who would like to have them lightened or removed altogether. Melasma treatment is typically safe for all skin types and tones. Candidates should be in good health. Those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, current smokers, or undergoing chemotherapy are not candidates for this treatment.

The exact cause of melasma remains unknown. Specialists believe that the dark spots in melasma might be triggered by several factors, such as race, hormone fluctuations, family history of the condition, anti-seizure drugs, along with other medications that make skin more susceptible to discoloration following exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. Excess sunlight exposure is considered the leading cause of melasma, particularly in people with a hereditary predisposition to the condition. Studies have revealed that individuals generally develop melasma in the summer months, when the sun is the most intense. In the winter, the hyperpigmentation will be less visible or lighter.

Melasma is diagnosed during a comprehensive skin exam by Dr. Tumbaga or one of our many professionals at Wellness Diagnostics and Medispa. The exam will include a review of your medical history, where you describe your symptoms and answer questions about any medications or supplements you are taking. We can also perform a skin analysis, which includes reviewing any changes in the color of your skin. This assessment is an important part of the treatment process because it helps us plan a customized solution to get rid of your dark spots.

The specific source of melasma remains unknown. Specialists feel that the dark patches in melasma may happen because of hormone fluctuations, family history, race, anti-seizure drugs, and other medications, which make the skin photosensitive. Excess sunlight exposure is considered the leading cause of melasma, particularly in people with a hereditary predisposition to the condition.

Patients have several possibilities for the treatment of melasma. First, we offer a variety of topical ointments, gels, or lotions that we can prescribe to help promote skin lightening. Second, there are treatments, such as chemical peels or fractional lasers. Improvements normally last when the patient implements superb sun protection and upkeep.

What is the main cause of melasma?
Researchers are still unsure of the exact cause of melasma but believe a series of factors contribute to this condition, including:

• UV radiation (sun exposure)
• Being a woman
• Hormonal changes (menopause, pregnancy)
• Having a darker skin tone
• Genetics
• Some medications (anti-seizure medication)

How can I remove melasma from my face?
At Wellness Diagnostics and Medispa, Dr. Tumbaga offers several effective treatments to reduce the appearance of melasma. These include:

• Topical ointments, gels, and lotions
• Chemical peels
• Fractional laser treatments

Can melasma be permanently removed?
Melasma is a chronic condition, meaning that it will never permanently go away. You may experience flare-ups at various times throughout your life. However, this doesn’t mean your melasma can’t be managed. By limiting your sun exposure and using various cosmetic treatments, you can significantly reduce the appearance of melasma.

In the event that you suffer from melasma/sun spots and you feel tired of trying to cover it with makeup, or you spend extra money on over-the-counter remedies that don't offer you the outcome you would like, we encourage you to contact Wellness Diagnostics and Medispa to schedule a consultation. Melasma requires a special diagnosis so we can provide the best possible treatment. Dr. Tumbaga can accurately treat sun spots and melasma to provide you with a terrific outcome.