Compounding for Melasma

Millions of people develop melasma, a common skin condition that causes discoloration of the face each year and the overwhelming majority of those people are women, many of whom are pregnant. In fact, the brownish spots that often appear on the forehead or face have been referred to as the “mask” of pregnancy. These spots can develop for many different reasons, including the following:

• UV rays – Exposure of certain areas of the skin to sun can result in hypermelanosis that causes the darker pigment in certain spots on the skin.
• Hormones – While medical professionals have not exactly determined why hormonal changes (such as those during pregnancy) can encourage melasma to develop, however, there is little to no doubt there is a connection between hormones and the skin condition.
• Genes – Family members often have melasma, showing a genetic tendency.
• Other medical factors – Conditions such as thyroid dysfunction or ovarian dysfunction can increase the incidence of melasma, as can some cosmetics or photosensitizing medications.

Melasma does not cause itching or pain on the skin nor does it increase the chances of later developing skin malignancies such as melanoma. However, many people with melasma simply dislike the way the spots look and, therefore, seek treatment for the condition.

Treatment for melasma can vary with different treatments working better for different patients. Some of the most common aspects of treatment can include:

• Avoiding sun exposure – This is a necessity for anyone hoping to successfully treat their melasma, as any sun exposure can cause a recurrence of spots. Having a sunscreen with a very strong SPF is highly important for anyone treating melasma.
• Tailored topical agents – Topicals with the right combination of steroids, hydroquinone, and retinoids can be successful for melasma sufferers. The exact combination will depend on the patient, so compounding a specific formula can be extremely beneficial.
• Laser treatments or chemical peels – These treatments may cause serious skin irritation and also may result in a rebound of melasma that may be worse than the initial condition.

Because the skin is so delicate and skin irritation can cause many problems, it is important to find the exact right formula for your skin type that works to treat your melasma. Working with a qualified pharmacist who has experience compounding for melasma may not only increase your chances of recovery for your skin but will also limit the side effects that you experience from your treatment.

Call 856-323-8723 or stop by today for more information.

If you have any skin conditions such as melasma, you should not hesitate to discuss your treatment with your doctor or the compounding pharmacists at Kress Specialty Apothecary. Please call today or stop into our store for assistance.