Melasma is an acquired hyperpigmentation disorder of the facial skin. It affects the malar area, forehead, and chin. The affected areas become light brown or deep brown with irregular shapes and are usually symmetrical. The exact cause of melasma is unknown.

The brown color of pigmentation is due to increased production of melanin. The skin has two layers: the superficial epidermis and the deep dermis. Melanin gets deposited more commonly in the epidermis, followed by the dermis, or both (mixed).

Melasma commonly affects individuals in regions with high-intensity UV radiation, making it prevalent among people of Hispanic and Oriental Indo-Chinese origin. Females are more commonly affected than males, often related to high levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones. It is also common in adulthood, particularly in the 4th and 5th decades of life.

Common Sites of Melasma:

• Malar Area (Cheeks)
• Forehead
• Chin

Treatment of melasma focuses on two main targets: melanin pigmentation and dermal blood vessels. A variety of treatment options are available:

1. Topical Medications:

   • Hydroquinone
   • Azelaic acid
   • Kojic acid
   • Tranexamic acid
   • Retinoids
   • Steroids
   • Arbutin
   • Niacinamide

2. Chemical Peels:

   • AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids)
   • BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acids)
   • Tretinoin peels

3. Oral Medications:

   • Vitamin C
   • Tranexamic acid
   • Antioxidants
   • Glutathione

4. Lasers and Light Therapies:

   • Erbium YAG laser
   • CO2 laser
   • IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)
   • Q-Switched ND YAG laser

The RecoSMA Laser offers an advanced and ultra-selective technique for treating melasma. It utilizes ultra-selective pinpoint coagulation to target areas of hyperpigmentation. The laser sends a train of Q-Switched pulses with optimized durations between pulses. This results in melanin granules being gradually heated to the point of coagulation without heating the surrounding area, practically eliminating the chance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Procedure Highlights:

• During the laser session, the treated area becomes darker, followed by redness after one or two minutes, which lasts for about half an hour.
• After one or two weeks, the treated spots become more saturated and then gradually exfoliate layer by layer.
• Effectively reduces deeper pigmentation.
• Suitable for all skin types, including darker skin tones.
• Minimal potential side effects such as hypopigmentation, scarring, and recurrence.

Benefits of RecoSMA Laser Treatment:

• Best suited for epidermal or superficial pigmentation of any skin type.
• Provides significant reduction in melasma pigmentation.
• Minimal downtime and discomfort during the procedure.
• Long-lasting results with reduced risk of recurrence.