I started doing hot yoga. Never had melasma before. After doing hot yoga 3-5 times a week for a couple of months I got melasma. I never thought that would be a thing! Huge bummer
Every skin is unique- but for me the daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen is what made the biggest difference in my melasma. It's still there- but the spots are so light you barely notice unless you look up-close. It takes time and consistency but it works.
My mom also has melasma and she tried so many things (IPL, lasers, etc) in her 30'a which all helped but it would always come back. In the end the only thing that made and makes a lasting impact was years of using sunscreen consistently. She started using it in her 40's and now 15 years later, altough her skin aged it still looks very radiant, bright and healthy. Never too late to start using sunscreen guys!
Dang, girl! You are so smart. So much information, presented clearly, fairly, pros/cons. Not only wicked smart but presentation is awesome, too. Thank you for your channel. So, so valuable.
PSA. I know this may not be a common side effect, but I started getting melasma after I started taken melatonin to help me sleep. I took it every night and didn't think much of it since it's supposed to be natural. My face was almost completely covered with melasma and it took me years to figure out what it was. I realized I started getting melasma around the time I started taking melatonin. I had also started taking 5-HTP. I did a Google search on melatonin and melasma and found one post where someone said they got melasma after starting taking it. I stopped taking the melatonin and my melasma started going away. It's taken a few years for it to fade and is now almost completely gone. Again, this doesn't seem to be a common side effect, but if anyone started noticing melasma after taking melatonin, they should try to stop taking it.
This is why melatonin is a prescription drug in UK and Australia. Because you can use it to Tan your body. You habe to have a valid sleep reaaon to need to get a script approved here to buy it. Melanotan tablets were once available without prescription too!
Systemic melatonin does NOT tan the skin. Melatonin is sometimes confused with Melanotan. Melanotan-II is given to produce erections in men with erectile dysfunction, tan the skin, and prevent skin cancers caused by sun exposure.
Great information Dr. Dray. I have been wanting an updated video on melasma. I myself have had melasma for almost 15 yrs now. My mother has is and my older brother does too. I have always wanted to try hydroquinone, but due to fear mongering on HQ, I never did. Until recently, a derm prescribed 4% for 3 months and take a month off. I just finished my 3 months and my melasma has never ever been as light as it is now. I also use Tretinoin. Heat affects my melasma bad. I wear Avene spf 50 daily no matter what and use a huge a visor everywhere I go! Rebound hyperpigmentation is my concern now.
Dr. Dray, can you do a video about Thiamidol, which is patented by Beiersdorf? I wrote a literature review on Melasma for my scientific writing class and discovered studies on Thiamidol vs hydroquinone. I’ve been watching your channel for years and haven’t seen you mention it before. I would love to know your thoughts!
Praying the one day insurance would cover at least two of this treatments. Because even something small as peeling is about 300 and up and if you have melasma you need at least 3 peeling sessions.
Dr dray my melasma amped up when I went through perimenopause when he estrogen dropped it got worst it’s a battle I tried hydroquinone and that did not help I think it made it worst, please talk about skin melasma during menopause and perimenopause
I have had melasma and rosacea for about 15 years. I have used tretinoin as well as Tri Luma. The Tri Luma works the best, but my skin is SO sensitive. It can really aggravate my skin. Both VERY frustrating skin conditions 😢. Nothing really works, and it keeps popping up in new spots randomly. I am very leary about using tranexamic acid orally, has some bad side effects. I dont tolerate meds very well, i also have IBS
I’ve used sunscreen religiously. I have now a big brown spots and some hyperpigmentation in both sides of my face. So sunscreen is not the only answer for me. My dermatologist doesn’t recommend lasers for my olive skin. Hydroquinone didn’t work with my mild rosecea - it triggered it. I tried La ser for darker skin tones - the first time it made things slightly better second time things got worse
This was a very comprehensive review of the topic, Dr. Dray. Thanks so much! I've found multi-active formulations to work best when combating melasma, in addition to the prescription triple therapy you outlined. It really requires lots of patience and dedication to treat ❤
Very good video. I found oral Tranexamic works for me the best (Fitzpatrick 4). This is after 10 years of different types of topicals. Triluma was great - but I got a terrible rebound after weaning off it. Now I use oral Glutathione to help my liver and immunity, plus oral vitamin C. It is internal and external plus sunscreen. At night I use Suprafade by Hue.
Thank you so much for providing information on melsma! Not to many people talk about this condition. I have it, and it's frustrating finding treatments to keep it at bay.
Really helpful! I am currently being treated for Melasma at a dermatologist but i don't think they are specialized in it. I am currently using a compound cream but are coming up on my second round of "break time" from it. My patches are still here but way lighter and now the vascularization is more apparent. So needed some info on what to use during breaks.
Hi guys,I want to share what I found. Today I discovered what seems to be a a powerful solution against hyperpigmentation. I have melasm for over 20 years and only today I found about this treatment. It is called Glutathione with high dose of vitamin C and can be administered either as a drip or a push Glutathione benefits (for the skin) Glutathione has many benefits for the skin including: Skin brightening and nourishing - it helps you achieve a healthy glow Improves the appearance of the skin (including complexion, dark spots, freckles, uneven skin tone, blemishes, liver spots, and signs of ageing) Capable of reversing the dark melanin pigments in the skin (hyperpigmentation) Evens out melasma Improves pigmentation from sun-damaged skin. Improves discolouration across the entire body Improves collagen and elastin production
I developed melasma when I was around 40-42 yrs old. I have tried LOTS OF THINGS. I now have been using the skinceuticals defense discoloration line and I can see a difference on my skin. Specially around my cheeks. I have also done a couple of micro needling treatments and I signed up for IPL treatments as well. This is my third treatment and I can see a difference. When it comes to IPL. how often do you recommend to do them ??
The oral Tranexamic acid is what has helped me most. I alternate with the HQ and Tranexamic acid, and also use tretinoin and SPF daily. It's still very noticeable to me but it has gotten better.
In Philippines you can easily buy tritinoin with hydroquinone in pharmacy. Like maxi-peel brand,and irs very effective,just follow the rules in using it. Like dr. Dray’s advise
My dermatologist treats melasma with thiamidol. I have used eucerin products with that component for 4 months and it works for me. What is your opinion on thiamidol?
I guess I will have to live with melasma and follow Dr. Drays excellent advice. I will not be able to afford treatments other than the common topical solutions and sunscreen. Thank you so much for this video post.
I would be interested to see a video about medication reactions to pharmaceuticals, antibiotics and infection etc causing things like Steven Johnson syndrome and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP.) A dermatologist diagnosed me with AGEP a few years ago but I didn’t have any of the suspected triggers. Treatment protocol included covering myself in triamcinolone ointment followed by a cold shower in my onesie. The rash literally went from my feet all the way up my neck and ended about at my jaw line. And I shouldn’t really say “rash” because it looked more like tiny little pimples (pustules) that covered almost my entire body, sparing my face. The underlying skin was red and hot to the touch. Finding information on it was difficult as it seems to be pretty rare and often of an idiopathic origin. The summary from the hospital said it was from antibiotics but I haven’t taken an antibiotic since childhood. I love your content but haven’t this topic covered, that I’m aware of. Thank you
I developed melasma from birth control pills and it never left. And good sunscreen wasn't around in my younger years (Sea & Ski spf 4). Plus all the irritating skincare I used that was promoted as beneficial, i.e, Clinique Clarifying lotion with denatured alcohol. Tranexamic acid does nothing for my hyper-pigmentation.
Thanks for making this! I also have that redness under my melasma. In fact, after I mostly cleared up the most stubborn melasma on my cheeks, the redness didn’t go away. I had one PDL session to get rid of some blood vessels which helped a bit. Now I don’t really mind a bit of redness, I think it looks healthy and I don’t have to wear blush 😅
I know this might sound stupid. And it is just my point of view, but my melasma flared aggressively due to prolonged exposure to blue light. I work on computer with 3 big monitors at which I am staring for a long period of time. Now all my screens are with blue light filter on. And also, I am wearing sunscreen when I work..
Thank you so very much for all that you give us in terms of useful information, Dr. Dray, it’s so informative and no nonsense! I’m really thinking about investing in a LED mask but I m afraid of potential side effects on my melasma, would it harm it, because of the light or heat? Thank you so much for your help!
Pico laser feels like you're frying a fish and the oil splatters on your face.😅 that's how I felt but it depends on one's pain threshold..it lightened my age spots. Derma said it really won't go away coz mine are really deep seated..sunscreen is a must
Glad to have this new information. You are a wealth of knowledge. There is a huge need for more knowledge in the area of dermatology. Can you do a presentation for Grovers Disease (T.A.D.)?
What a timing you have. Was watching your video on hydroquinone from five years ago when this popped up 😊got prescribed hydroquinone today from my doctor
I started getting melasma a couple of years ago, despite diligent sun protection. My dad has it, so some of it must be genetic. But I didn’t realize the contribution of HEAT to the condition until recently. I was a sauna lover for years! I’d go several times a week for 30+ minutes at a time. I had no idea that could negatively affect skin, I thought it was the opposite. I also learned recently that chemical sunscreen creates heat in the skin, so physical sunscreen is a better option.
I found a moisturizer with peppermint, camphor, eucalyptus. I think those ingredients just shrunk/constricted the blood vessels temporarily, but it did lighten my skin.
Thanks for the comprehensive review! I have melasma and look for tinted sunscreens but the strongest I found is SPF50. Between La Roche Anthelios mineral tinted SPF50 and Melt-in milk body chemical SPF100 which is more ideal for melasma skin? I am planning to go to the beach resort and I want to be fully prepared, beyond staying in shade and wearing a hat etc.
I developed Melasma after receiving an IPL treatment. I have gotten it under control with in office chemical peels (monthly), 0.25% tret, 15% Azelaic acid, a 4 month course of hydroquinone 4%, and oral tranexamic acid. I am also diligent about wearing and reapplying sunscreen daily.
Can you please do a video on skin care for children? My 9 year old has a few blackheads on his nose and I don’t want to use any harsh chemicals on him. Thank you.
I just came across your video, this is one of the most informative videos I've seen on melasma. Thank you so much for this. Can you make a video on sunscreens you recommend for melasma?
Wow the most explanatory video about melasma from all questions that I have - thanks for all the answers and explanations it opened my directions options .... let us know about IPL for melasma ... thanks
Thanks for discussing chemical vs mineral SPF. I veered away from it bc I worried it could make my melasma worse. Glad to hear that's not the case. How many times would one need to get microneedling w/ PRP to see results? Is 1 time enough?
Thank you for this information. I was prescribed Kevarta Emulsion compound of 0.5 % hydrocortisone, 6% hydroquinone, 0.05% tretinoin 30gm. It seems to be working, but it really does not work well with the Botox that I had on my forehead.
@@debbiekasper4833 thank you. I also have botox and use HQ 4% and Tretinoin 0.025% from Dermatica. I have no issues. I also don’t use anything else besides moisturizer, Gentle Cleanser and a lot of Sunscreen. Maybe that helps…
Thank you for the detailed video! Could you please talk about the pathophysiology of the skin in Ehlers-Danlos patients to give more visibility to these rare syndromes?
I’m trans and developed melasma after going on estrogen and progesterone hormone replacement therapy. It took me a while to realize it because i thought i was just being more self conscious about upper lip facial hair shadow, but when it got worse despite my facial hair lightening/thinning i knew something else must be the cause. I’d love a video or video series on trans related skincare. There’s such a huge intersection between these topics and so much ground to cover - hair loss treatments, halting or regrowth of hairline, thinner more sensitive skin and drier skin when estrogen is dominant, effects of progesterone in hair/skin, hair removal methods like electrolysis or laser, genital skin and lubrication changes/atrophy, stretch mark prevention for breast/hips - the list goes on and on and that’s just for MtF folks. Thanks for your work!
I use a zinc oxide sunscreen above a few layers of quality moisturizers but zinc oxide always gives my face a dry, mask-like feeling. Chemical sunscreens are out of the question because they’re irritating to my eyes. Just to self experiment I put some of my sunscreen over a generous coat of cerave ointment as part of my night time skin care routine and it still gave me that mask like feeling.
Have you tried Asian sunscreens? None have ever bothered my eyes whereas every US chemical bothers them. I can’t stand the drying mask feel of mineral. Without Asian sunscreens I’d be ruined.
Thanks again for the useful info! My dermatologist recommended a Halo laser. Do you have a video on different lasers for melasma? I tried a VI Peel which my aesthetician recommended and it actually made my melasma worse.
OMG IUD can cause melasma for some women? I learnt that IUD like Mirena only sends progesterone within the uterus. Does it travel to other parts of the body?? I am now having second thoughts about doing HRT at menopausal age. I don't have melsama myself but my mother does but she has never done HRT after menopause. She still gets melasma though. No sun care until I taught her at 70. She is currently using prescribed HQ and it does her melasma a lot of good but not sure if it is a good thing to keep going with it.
Dr. Drey touches on the subject of using HQ for a while & stopping for a few months - check out that video. In the meantime, help your mother select a sunscreen she likes & will use on a daily basis.You are a good daughter to look after your mother. The information you gainin helping your mom will also be helpful for you.😊
I'm starting to believe I have melasma. I have darker areas on my face and neck, but they're often hard to see. If I do have melasma, I think that it's hard to see because I try to keep my sunlight & LED exposer to a minimum because of photosensitivity.
I'm a little confused about wether microneedling is safe is you have melasma. Does anyone have any info regarding this issue? I've heard mixed things.... Thank you!
I’ve been to 2 dermatologists to treat my melasma and not one ever used a wood’s lamp to look at my melasma or tell me how much was epidermal or deeper. Maybe I need a new dermatologist. 😥
I'm in perimenopause and got a few patches of this crap! The upper lip was so annoying😠 so hard to get rid of it. Using retin a, adapalene and hydroquinone, and its better. Sunscreen every day! At least now its light enough for make up to help cover it up! Its true the hydroquinone burned my upper lip and made the starting line look worse if I didnt put heavy moisturizer, same with the retin a. Looked like lip liner😂😂😮
Great, thank you! Most of these things are all what my derm has used and/or is currently using to battle my melasma. Glad for the confirmation 😊. Oral Tx Acid for sure works the best for me too!
@@Idk-do4db starting the triple combo cream formulation now. My derm will only let me be on oral Tx acid once a year now for a 3 month cycle. 3 month cycles a couple times a year was the most I was allowed to be on before. I don’t think most derms like you to do it as a first line of defense even though it works the best!
Is melasma actually harmful to the skin, or is it just an aesthetic concern? I've had melasma intermittently since I was 25 despite religious sunscreen use but it's never really bothered me, I actually think the "mask" pigment pattern is kinda cute on myself and others.
That’s so funny that you say it’s kind of cute- my husband always tells me he thinks it looks exotic on my skin- light ish olive here- and says it’s like a beautiful spotted pony🤣🤣
What type of scincare , what actives can be used after microneedling to reduce melasma ????? Vitamine c ???? Niacinamide ??? Retinol ???? Thank you for answer me 😊
That's something you should ask the professional who does your microneedling procedure. Dr Dray and most derm channels don't believe in at-home microneedling (dr sam ellis drives the point of consultation home in her video on microneedling).
So what helps hyperpigmentation in the deeper skin layer (dermis?)? How do we know if we have this? How exactly does a woods lamp work to discover this?
I know that melasma can be very frustrating but please don't be disappointed my dearies because there are still options to suppress and maintain it and that is better than nothing (i know i know it's not curable but you get the gist😅😊❤). Also another happy thing is that you don't have to be a "hermit" for life but on the contrary you can enjoy everything but with extreme caution. Niacinamide is such marvelous ingredient and help me a lot ( not melasma but with skin redness) 😊❤. Thanks a lot Doctor Andrea for pinpointing the great importance of having melasma and keeping it at bay and also giving hope to these individuals who really need it desperately.
What about those who don’t afford to spend hundreds of dollars at the dermatologist and the revisits you have to do afterwards. ?! Are they condemned to feel less pretty because they are poor ?! Could we get a video we’re you can lay down an affordable skin care for melasma available at the counter and work too?
There are some videos by some other dermatologists. Like the use of apple cider vinegar and aloa vera and other herbs that make a mask. Search melasma and you will find such videos.
Guy here, I have a big forehead patch in between my eyes. Too much sun exposure. It started years ago and I didn't pay to much attention. Went to the derm last year and she prescribed hydroquinone. Unfortunately it didn't react well to the BP I use for acne. That area turned yellow! I wish she informed me about that. I've struggled finding a sunscreen but have been using the Skin Aqua UV and so far I like it. What are your thoughts on Meladerm? I've been using it for a few weeks now. No irritation just trying to be patient with it.
Does Omnilux LED face mask increase Melasma? I know this mask, unlike other brands, doesn’t heat up. But what is your take on it Dr Dray since you also used it. Thanks 🙏
Hey, I've recently seen people sharing their stories how the LED masks caused melasma in them. Im not certain on what brands they meant,sorry, but thought I'd share anyway as a word of caution
Dr Drey, I really wonder if estrogen or progesterone cause melasma. I wonder if it’s perhaps pregnant women are usually feeling very hot during pregnancy 😂 or could there be other pregnancy hormones causing melasma?? I mean during pregnancy, women usually have the best skin hair and nail. Also lately people are talking about how estrogen cream is good for the skin 😅😂 OMG, then how is it that estrogen and progesterone cause melasma? Crazy world of science! Always have conflicting information. I really wish there’s true scientific data on this topic of melasma.
regarding hydroquinone tretinoin mixture, I have medium itchiness and redness. I use an antiinflammatory cream but after seeing your video maybe I should not proceed with this approach? I thought a little redness itchiness was normal.. should ı wait for 3-4 days to see how it is going or should I stop immediately?
Thank you for this video! I have heard that a Jessner peel can also be effective but you didn’t mention that as an option. What are your thoughts on Jessner peels for melasma?
I have melasma and have tried the jessner peel at my dermatologist. Did nothing at all. For reference I have skin type 4 on the Fitzpatrick scale (deep tone). Hope that helps
Hello Dr.Dray. I'm on isotretinoin, and I don't have enough money to afford a moisturizer at the moment but I do have a hydrating serum and vaseline on hand, can I just use a slugging method instead of a traditional moisturizer to combat accutane side effects
Dr. Dray, I have no melasma, but my skin gets easily reactive to heat… Can I possibly benefit from wearing those plastic masks (those for the entire face that you put on like glasses) while cooking??
Have lupus, have worn sunscreen consistently for the past almost 30 years, wore hats and protective clothing, stayed out of the sun. Should have a beautiful complexion, right? Developed melasma in the past 10 years. So frustrating. Does sun exposure in early life contribute or is it solely hormonal? I feel I could get away without wearing makeup if it weren't for the stupid melasma!
I also have lupus, (which has been in remission for 4 years, yay!) but I was a sun worshiper in my early years (I am now 59), & never wore sunscreen, but had perfect skin until my lupus kicked in in my early 30’s. I had terrible sores on my face & am now dealing with hyperpigmentation on one side of my face & melasma on the other. It is really frustrating! I totally believe that early sun exposure plays a role, just from personal experience, but I don’t know for sure. Great question!! I am sending you lots of healing energy. ❤
@@LindaKayHolevas You're so kind! I have been EXTREMELY fortunate with my lupus experience. Medications have kept things well under control, with just a few flares. I have led a very normal life except for the self-imposed hermiting from the sun, but I still played outside with my kids when they were young. So while I had rashes from time to time, it never got to the sore level. Thanks for giving me perspective and reminding me how fortunate I have been. I should not care what anyone thinks of my skin at this point as most people think I'm about 5-10 years younger than I am. Healing thoughts & hopeful thoughts that you're in remission FOREVER!!! ❤
Greetings Dr Dray hope u r well n 🖐Hello Every1 n Happy Friday😀n what a Wonderful Vid…. thanks n This is Gonna b so Helpful🔥👍n Continued Blessings to All💜….
I started doing hot yoga. Never had melasma before. After doing hot yoga 3-5 times a week for a couple of months I got melasma. I never thought that would be a thing! Huge bummer
Heat triggers my rosecea and melasma
My melasma got worst because of the heater in the car
Melasma is simply something that happens as you age. I believe this is the result of cumulative progesterone.
Sauna triggered mines. I had to stop
I also do it. I'm not sure if it effects it. The sun worsens mine. When hydroquinone cream it lightens but every year mines spreads from the sun
Window glass means cars too. Years of driving in Arizona means the left side of my face is more damaged than the right.
My driver's side is worse too. At 66 I can't deny the difference.
This is my situation too.. I’m going to get my car windows tinted
Every skin is unique- but for me the daily use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen is what made the biggest difference in my melasma. It's still there- but the spots are so light you barely notice unless you look up-close. It takes time and consistency but it works.
Which sunscreen are u using ?
for me too, good filters are half the success, I use Avene, La Roche and Eucerin👍
Would you mind to tell how long have you been dealing with melasma and how long have you been treating it??
My mom also has melasma and she tried so many things (IPL, lasers, etc) in her 30'a which all helped but it would always come back. In the end the only thing that made and makes a lasting impact was years of using sunscreen consistently. She started using it in her 40's and now 15 years later, altough her skin aged it still looks very radiant, bright and healthy. Never too late to start using sunscreen guys!
Mineral works best for me
Dang, girl! You are so smart. So much information, presented clearly, fairly, pros/cons. Not only wicked smart but presentation is awesome, too. Thank you for your channel. So, so valuable.
PSA. I know this may not be a common side effect, but I started getting melasma after I started taken melatonin to help me sleep. I took it every night and didn't think much of it since it's supposed to be natural. My face was almost completely covered with melasma and it took me years to figure out what it was. I realized I started getting melasma around the time I started taking melatonin. I had also started taking 5-HTP. I did a Google search on melatonin and melasma and found one post where someone said they got melasma after starting taking it. I stopped taking the melatonin and my melasma started going away. It's taken a few years for it to fade and is now almost completely gone. Again, this doesn't seem to be a common side effect, but if anyone started noticing melasma after taking melatonin, they should try to stop taking it.
This is why melatonin is a prescription drug in UK and Australia. Because you can use it to Tan your body. You habe to have a valid sleep reaaon to need to get a script approved here to buy it. Melanotan tablets were once available without prescription too!
Systemic melatonin does NOT tan the skin. Melatonin is sometimes confused with Melanotan. Melanotan-II is given to produce erections in men with erectile dysfunction, tan the skin, and prevent skin cancers caused by sun exposure.
If you aren’t sleeping well this is also a sign of diminishing hormones…and melasma is common for women approaching menopause.
oh wow! I never connected the 2! But melatonin is critical after a certain age.
Oh wow thank you for mentioning this… I’ve been taking melatonin for a long time so I’m gonna see if it makes a difference if I stop.
Great information Dr. Dray. I have been wanting an updated video on melasma. I myself have had melasma for almost 15 yrs now. My mother has is and my older brother does too. I have always wanted to try hydroquinone, but due to fear mongering on HQ, I never did. Until recently, a derm prescribed 4% for 3 months and take a month off. I just finished my 3 months and my melasma has never ever been as light as it is now. I also use Tretinoin. Heat affects my melasma bad. I wear Avene spf 50 daily no matter what and use a huge a visor everywhere I go! Rebound hyperpigmentation is my concern now.
Dr. Dray, can you do a video about Thiamidol, which is patented by Beiersdorf? I wrote a literature review on Melasma for my scientific writing class and discovered studies on Thiamidol vs hydroquinone. I’ve been watching your channel for years and haven’t seen you mention it before. I would love to know your thoughts!
Praying the one day insurance would cover at least two of this treatments. Because even something small as peeling is about 300 and up and if you have melasma you need at least 3 peeling sessions.
Dr dray my melasma amped up when I went through perimenopause when he estrogen dropped it got worst it’s a battle I tried hydroquinone and that did not help I think it made it worst, please talk about skin melasma during menopause and perimenopause
I don't think she reads our comments.
I have had melasma and rosacea for about 15 years. I have used tretinoin as well as Tri Luma. The Tri Luma works the best, but my skin is SO sensitive. It can really aggravate my skin. Both VERY frustrating skin conditions 😢. Nothing really works, and it keeps popping up in new spots randomly. I am very leary about using tranexamic acid orally, has some bad side effects. I dont tolerate meds very well, i also have IBS
I’ve used sunscreen religiously. I have now a big brown spots and some hyperpigmentation in both sides of my face. So sunscreen is not the only answer for me. My dermatologist doesn’t recommend lasers for my olive skin. Hydroquinone didn’t work with my mild rosecea - it triggered it. I tried La ser for darker skin tones - the first time it made things slightly better second time things got worse
This was a very comprehensive review of the topic, Dr. Dray. Thanks so much! I've found multi-active formulations to work best when combating melasma, in addition to the prescription triple therapy you outlined. It really requires lots of patience and dedication to treat ❤
Can you do a video on what dermatologists can give you for melasma
Scheduled my first Cosmelan MD peel at end of month and really looking forward to results after 10 years of dealing with recalcitrant melasma.
Very good video.
I found oral Tranexamic works for me the best (Fitzpatrick 4). This is after 10 years of different types of topicals. Triluma was great - but I got a terrible rebound after weaning off it. Now I use oral Glutathione to help my liver and immunity, plus oral vitamin C. It is internal and external plus sunscreen.
At night I use Suprafade by Hue.
Thank you so much for providing information on melsma! Not to many people talk about this condition. I have it, and it's frustrating finding treatments to keep it at bay.
Really helpful! I am currently being treated for Melasma at a dermatologist but i don't think they are specialized in it. I am currently using a compound cream but are coming up on my second round of "break time" from it. My patches are still here but way lighter and now the vascularization is more apparent. So needed some info on what to use during breaks.
Hi guys,I want to share what I found.
Today I discovered what seems to be a a powerful solution against hyperpigmentation.
I have melasm for over 20 years and only today I found about this treatment.
It is called Glutathione with high dose of vitamin C and can be administered either as a drip or a push
Glutathione benefits (for the skin)
Glutathione has many benefits for the skin including:
Skin brightening and nourishing - it helps you achieve a healthy glow
Improves the appearance of the skin (including complexion, dark spots, freckles, uneven skin tone, blemishes, liver spots, and signs of ageing)
Capable of reversing the dark melanin pigments in the skin (hyperpigmentation)
Evens out melasma
Improves pigmentation from sun-damaged skin.
Improves discolouration across the entire body
Improves collagen and elastin production
I developed melasma when I was around 40-42 yrs old. I have tried LOTS OF THINGS. I now have been using the skinceuticals defense discoloration line and I can see a difference on my skin. Specially around my cheeks. I have also done a couple of micro needling treatments and I signed up for IPL treatments as well. This is my third treatment and I can see a difference. When it comes to IPL. how often do you recommend to do them ??
The oral Tranexamic acid is what has helped me most. I alternate with the HQ and Tranexamic acid, and also use tretinoin and SPF daily. It's still very noticeable to me but it has gotten better.
where did you get oral Tranexamic acid? I tried to ask my dermatologist to prescribe it and they don't prescribe it.
Did oral Tranexamic not lead you to hair loss?
How to tell difference between melasma and sun spots (or sun damage)? Can you treat both with same products?
I'd check out her videos on sun damage.
She explains that in the video
In Philippines you can easily buy tritinoin with hydroquinone in pharmacy. Like maxi-peel brand,and irs very effective,just follow the rules in using it. Like dr. Dray’s advise
My dermatologist treats melasma with thiamidol. I have used eucerin products with that component for 4 months and it works for me. What is your opinion on thiamidol?
Thank you
Do you have to use the products forever? Are the results permanent?
I guess I will have to live with melasma and follow Dr. Drays excellent advice. I will not be able to afford treatments other than the common topical solutions and sunscreen. Thank you so much for this video post.
I would be interested to see a video about medication reactions to pharmaceuticals, antibiotics and infection etc causing things like Steven Johnson syndrome and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP.)
A dermatologist diagnosed me with AGEP a few years ago but I didn’t have any of the suspected triggers. Treatment protocol included covering myself in triamcinolone ointment followed by a cold shower in my onesie. The rash literally went from my feet all the way up my neck and ended about at my jaw line. And I shouldn’t really say “rash” because it looked more like tiny little pimples (pustules) that covered almost my entire body, sparing my face. The underlying skin was red and hot to the touch.
Finding information on it was difficult as it seems to be pretty rare and often of an idiopathic origin. The summary from the hospital said it was from antibiotics but I haven’t taken an antibiotic since childhood.
I love your content but haven’t this topic covered, that I’m aware of.
Thank you
Can you make videos talking about skin of different ethnicities? like common problems, tendencies, etc.
I developed melasma from birth control pills and it never left. And good sunscreen wasn't around in my younger years (Sea & Ski spf 4). Plus all the irritating skincare I used that was promoted as beneficial, i.e, Clinique Clarifying lotion with denatured alcohol. Tranexamic acid does nothing for my hyper-pigmentation.
Have you tried taking TA orally for a few months?
Thanks for making this! I also have that redness under my melasma. In fact, after I mostly cleared up the most stubborn melasma on my cheeks, the redness didn’t go away. I had one PDL session to get rid of some blood vessels which helped a bit. Now I don’t really mind a bit of redness, I think it looks healthy and I don’t have to wear blush 😅
How u treated melashma
I know this might sound stupid. And it is just my point of view, but my melasma flared aggressively due to prolonged exposure to blue light. I work on computer with 3 big monitors at which I am staring for a long period of time. Now all my screens are with blue light filter on. And also, I am wearing sunscreen when I work..
Thank you so very much for all that you give us in terms of useful information, Dr. Dray, it’s so informative and no nonsense! I’m really thinking about investing in a LED mask but I m afraid of potential side effects on my melasma, would it harm it, because of the light or heat? Thank you so much for your help!
My melasma mustache plus on my cheeks is being treated with cyspera nightly and pico laser ever month. I'm satisfied with the result
Can you talk about your pico laser experience?
Pico laser feels like you're frying a fish and the oil splatters on your face.😅 that's how I felt but it depends on one's pain threshold..it lightened my age spots. Derma said it really won't go away coz mine are really deep seated..sunscreen is a must
Thanks again for the help! have a great week end Dr Dray
Glad to have this new information.
You are a wealth of knowledge.
There is a huge need for more knowledge in the area of dermatology.
Can you do a presentation for Grovers Disease (T.A.D.)?
What a timing you have. Was watching your video on hydroquinone from five years ago when this popped up 😊got prescribed hydroquinone today from my doctor
Good luck. I just completed 3 months on hydroquinone. Derm asked me to take a month off. Worked great for me.
I started getting melasma a couple of years ago, despite diligent sun protection. My dad has it, so some of it must be genetic. But I didn’t realize the contribution of HEAT to the condition until recently. I was a sauna lover for years! I’d go several times a week for 30+ minutes at a time. I had no idea that could negatively affect skin, I thought it was the opposite. I also learned recently that chemical sunscreen creates heat in the skin, so physical sunscreen is a better option.
I just to know chemical sunscreen will turn heat into skin after I got melasma and use chemical sunscreen more then 1 years.
Would be very curious to hear your opinion on tranexamic acid in a pill form
risk for blood clots
@@sanjatalic7262 Not in the lower dosages like 500 mg
She mentions it in the video
This is what I really want to know. Will watch it better time. Thank you! 😊
Great information. Thank you, as always ❤
Thanks for watching!
I found a moisturizer with peppermint, camphor, eucalyptus. I think those ingredients just shrunk/constricted the blood vessels temporarily, but it did lighten my skin.
Can you tell us the brand of your moisturizer?
@@lovely3873 Yes, it’s discontinued. Clean & Clear Oil Free Moisturizer for acne prone skin. I found some remaining stock on eBay and Amazon.
Those ingredients can cause irritation! Surprised they helped your skin. Maybe something else in the product was what actually helped.
Thanks for the comprehensive review! I have melasma and look for tinted sunscreens but the strongest I found is SPF50. Between La Roche Anthelios mineral tinted SPF50 and Melt-in milk body chemical SPF100 which is more ideal for melasma skin? I am planning to go to the beach resort and I want to be fully prepared, beyond staying in shade and wearing a hat etc.
I use the brand Ultrasun 50% tinted honey. Best I ever used. It is made on Switzerland. Buy on their website or Amazon
Can Red Light Therpay make malasma or Hyperpigmentation worse?
I developed Melasma after receiving an IPL treatment. I have gotten it under control with in office chemical peels (monthly), 0.25% tret, 15% Azelaic acid, a 4 month course of hydroquinone 4%, and oral tranexamic acid. I am also diligent about wearing and reapplying sunscreen daily.
IPL is not for every skin type and people are not aware of this.
Yes same with me. Finally one dermatologist informed that lasers can do that and to use them. Instead she suggested micro needling with no heat.
I got melasma recently recently and can only trust you 😢 im super confused just watching videos in tiktok
Can you please do a video on skin care for children? My 9 year old has a few blackheads on his nose and I don’t want to use any harsh chemicals on him. Thank you.
You can ask your pediatrician. Pediatricians deal with skin conditions for kids like acne.
Jude Chao (Fiddy Snails) recently did a video on this
Thank you for another great educational video. Looking forward to tomorrow's vlog!😊
I just came across your video, this is one of the most informative videos I've seen on melasma. Thank you so much for this. Can you make a video on sunscreens you recommend for melasma?
Thank you for this informative video!!!😊
Wow the most explanatory video about melasma from all questions that I have - thanks for all the answers and explanations it opened my directions options .... let us know about IPL for melasma ... thanks
During covid, with the mask on during the summer months, my face started to feel hot and humid and I developed some hyperpigmented patches.
Me too.
Thanks for discussing chemical vs mineral SPF. I veered away from it bc I worried it could make my melasma worse. Glad to hear that's not the case.
How many times would one need to get microneedling w/ PRP to see results? Is 1 time enough?
Thanks Dr. Could you please talk about thiamidol
Thank you for this information. I was prescribed Kevarta Emulsion compound of 0.5 % hydrocortisone, 6% hydroquinone, 0.05% tretinoin 30gm. It seems to be working, but it really does not work well with the Botox that I had on my forehead.
Whats the problem with Botox?
Why? Can you elaborare? Thank You
Every time I put the compound on my forehead it got super irritated, red and itchy
@@debbiekasper4833 thank you. I also have botox and use HQ 4% and Tretinoin 0.025% from Dermatica. I have no issues. I also don’t use anything else besides moisturizer, Gentle Cleanser and a lot of Sunscreen. Maybe that helps…
I get Botox and am prescribed 6% HQ. It is fine on my forehead ❤
Mine is mostly heat driven. I can and do wear spf 50 all day even indoors and if I get over heated in any way, it darkens.
Thank you for another great video! Have a great weekend!🥰
Would you be willing to share with us some tips for nighttime skincare while wearing a cpap mask?
Thank you for the detailed video! Could you please talk about the pathophysiology of the skin in Ehlers-Danlos patients to give more visibility to these rare syndromes?
Yes please 🙏 The EDS skin is supposedly softer and ages slower, but is also super prone to sag due to fhe faulty collagen being produced.
I’m trans and developed melasma after going on estrogen and progesterone hormone replacement therapy. It took me a while to realize it because i thought i was just being more self conscious about upper lip facial hair shadow, but when it got worse despite my facial hair lightening/thinning i knew something else must be the cause.
I’d love a video or video series on trans related skincare. There’s such a huge intersection between these topics and so much ground to cover - hair loss treatments, halting or regrowth of hairline, thinner more sensitive skin and drier skin when estrogen is dominant, effects of progesterone in hair/skin, hair removal methods like electrolysis or laser, genital skin and lubrication changes/atrophy, stretch mark prevention for breast/hips - the list goes on and on and that’s just for MtF folks.
Thanks for your work!
I use a zinc oxide sunscreen above a few layers of quality moisturizers but zinc oxide always gives my face a dry, mask-like feeling. Chemical sunscreens are out of the question because they’re irritating to my eyes.
Just to self experiment I put some of my sunscreen over a generous coat of cerave ointment as part of my night time skin care routine and it still gave me that mask like feeling.
Have you tried Asian sunscreens? None have ever bothered my eyes whereas every US chemical bothers them. I can’t stand the drying mask feel of mineral. Without Asian sunscreens I’d be ruined.
Thank you for this video!
Happy Friday, Dr. Dray ❤
Happy Friday!
I just picked up hydroquinone 4%. Is there anything to keep in mind about it? Thank you, Dr.
Thanks again for the useful info! My dermatologist recommended a Halo laser. Do you have a video on different lasers for melasma? I tried a VI Peel which my aesthetician recommended and it actually made my melasma worse.
Hey Doc is Poikiloderma of Civatte a type of melasma or just straight up sun damage? Great video x
I'd check out her video on poikilderma of civatte.
Happy Friday Dr Dray so excited to be here I live for this ❤️
Morning!
@@DrDrayzday ❤
Greetings David Shabas hope u r well n Happy Friday😀👍💜….
@@whitneybrown4067 Happy Friday Whitney👍
This was such an EXCELLENT video and very timely for me personally. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and for your professionalism Dr. Dray!
OMG IUD can cause melasma for some women? I learnt that IUD like Mirena only sends progesterone within the uterus. Does it travel to other parts of the body?? I am now having second thoughts about doing HRT at menopausal age. I don't have melsama myself but my mother does but she has never done HRT after menopause. She still gets melasma though. No sun care until I taught her at 70. She is currently using prescribed HQ and it does her melasma a lot of good but not sure if it is a good thing to keep going with it.
Dr. Drey touches on the subject of using HQ for a while & stopping for a few months - check out that video. In the meantime, help your mother select a sunscreen she likes & will use on a daily basis.You are a good daughter to look after your mother. The information you gainin helping your mom will also be helpful for you.😊
@@Aurora-SkyHi yes that’s what we are doing right now… use few months stop and repeat. And yes she is using sunscreen too. :)
Thank you Dr Dray!
I'm starting to believe I have melasma.
I have darker areas on my face and neck, but they're often hard to see.
If I do have melasma, I think that it's hard to see because I try to keep my sunlight & LED exposer to a minimum because of photosensitivity.
Hello Dr.Dray! I suffer from melasma amd sun spots too.
it is frustrating
I'm a little confused about wether microneedling is safe is you have melasma. Does anyone have any info regarding this issue? I've heard mixed things.... Thank you!
No it’s not safe it can worsen your melasma
Happy weekend Dr Dray…see you tomorrow x🤩💙
You too 👍🏼
I’ve been to 2 dermatologists to treat my melasma and not one ever used a wood’s lamp to look at my melasma or tell me how much was epidermal or deeper. Maybe I need a new dermatologist. 😥
Happy Friday!
Happy Friday!
I'm in perimenopause and got a few patches of this crap! The upper lip was so annoying😠 so hard to get rid of it. Using retin a, adapalene and hydroquinone, and its better. Sunscreen every day! At least now its light enough for make up to help cover it up!
Its true the hydroquinone burned my upper lip and made the starting line look worse if I didnt put heavy moisturizer, same with the retin a.
Looked like lip liner😂😂😮
Happy Friday Dr Dray!❤
Great, thank you! Most of these things are all what my derm has used and/or is currently using to battle my melasma. Glad for the confirmation 😊. Oral Tx Acid for sure works the best for me too!
Are you doing a combo tx? And do you have to be on oral ta forever?
@@Idk-do4db starting the triple combo cream formulation now. My derm will only let me be on oral Tx acid once a year now for a 3 month cycle. 3 month cycles a couple times a year was the most I was allowed to be on before. I don’t think most derms like you to do it as a first line of defense even though it works the best!
Is melasma actually harmful to the skin, or is it just an aesthetic concern? I've had melasma intermittently since I was 25 despite religious sunscreen use but it's never really bothered me, I actually think the "mask" pigment pattern is kinda cute on myself and others.
That’s so funny that you say it’s kind of cute- my husband always tells me he thinks it looks exotic on my skin- light ish olive here- and says it’s like a beautiful spotted pony🤣🤣
Good morning Dr Dray ❤
Morning!
What type of scincare , what actives can be used after microneedling to reduce melasma ????? Vitamine c ???? Niacinamide ??? Retinol ???? Thank you for answer me 😊
That's something you should ask the professional who does your microneedling procedure. Dr Dray and most derm channels don't believe in at-home microneedling (dr sam ellis drives the point of consultation home in her video on microneedling).
Thank you for this answer 😊👍
Happy Friday Dr Dray.
Happy Friday!
Can you do a video on Eucerin anti-pigment products?
So what helps hyperpigmentation in the deeper skin layer (dermis?)? How do we know if we have this? How exactly does a woods lamp work to discover this?
I know that melasma can be very frustrating but please don't be disappointed my dearies because there are still options to suppress and maintain it and that is better than nothing (i know i know it's not curable but you get the gist😅😊❤). Also another happy thing is that you don't have to be a "hermit" for life but on the contrary you can enjoy everything but with extreme caution. Niacinamide is such marvelous ingredient and help me a lot ( not melasma but with skin redness) 😊❤. Thanks a lot Doctor Andrea for pinpointing the great importance of having melasma and keeping it at bay and also giving hope to these individuals who really need it desperately.
What about those who don’t afford to spend hundreds of dollars at the dermatologist and the revisits you have to do afterwards. ?! Are they condemned to feel less pretty because they are poor ?! Could we get a video we’re you can lay down an affordable skin care for melasma available at the counter and work too?
There are some videos by some other dermatologists. Like the use of apple cider vinegar and aloa vera and other herbs that make a mask. Search melasma and you will find such videos.
Guy here, I have a big forehead patch in between my eyes. Too much sun exposure. It started years ago and I didn't pay to much attention. Went to the derm last year and she prescribed hydroquinone. Unfortunately it didn't react well to the BP I use for acne. That area turned yellow! I wish she informed me about that. I've struggled finding a sunscreen but have been using the Skin Aqua UV and so far I like it. What are your thoughts on Meladerm? I've been using it for a few weeks now. No irritation just trying to be patient with it.
The one derm I've seen talk about meladerm is Dr. Sam Ellis (and I believe also Dr. Davin Lim in Australia).
I’ve used RX hydroquinone. It caused crepy skin on my neck. Have you heard of that happening, Dr. Dray?
Does Omnilux LED face mask increase Melasma? I know this mask, unlike other brands, doesn’t heat up. But what is your take on it Dr Dray since you also used it. Thanks 🙏
Hey, I've recently seen people sharing their stories how the LED masks caused melasma in them. Im not certain on what brands they meant,sorry, but thought I'd share anyway as a word of caution
Dr Drey, I really wonder if estrogen or progesterone cause melasma. I wonder if it’s perhaps pregnant women are usually feeling very hot during pregnancy 😂 or could there be other pregnancy hormones causing melasma?? I mean during pregnancy, women usually have the best skin hair and nail. Also lately people are talking about how estrogen cream is good for the skin 😅😂 OMG, then how is it that estrogen and progesterone cause melasma? Crazy world of science! Always have conflicting information. I really wish there’s true scientific data on this topic of melasma.
regarding hydroquinone tretinoin mixture, I have medium itchiness and redness. I use an antiinflammatory cream but after seeing your video maybe I should not proceed with this approach? I thought a little redness itchiness was normal.. should ı wait for 3-4 days to see how it is going or should I stop immediately?
Thank you for this video! I have heard that a Jessner peel can also be effective but you didn’t mention that as an option. What are your thoughts on Jessner peels for melasma?
I have melasma and have tried the jessner peel at my dermatologist. Did nothing at all. For reference I have skin type 4 on the Fitzpatrick scale (deep tone). Hope that helps
@@iselalopez4553 good to know. Thank you!
Hello Dr.Dray. I'm on isotretinoin, and I don't have enough money to afford a moisturizer at the moment but I do have a hydrating serum and vaseline on hand, can I just use a slugging method instead of a traditional moisturizer to combat accutane side effects
I’m not a derm but that seems fine, if anything you’ll just get extra moisture.
@@joyousenoful thank you!
Can you make a video on the Elaine Brennan micro peel, please!?
Hello! Your timing is impeccable! I’m thinking of using the Dr. Dennis gross spectra led mask for my melasma
Low ferritin (iron stores) is often a cause so get your levels checked!
Source?
Thank you! Need any melasma pep talk I can get7
U are the best DR
Dr. Dray, I have no melasma, but my skin gets easily reactive to heat… Can I possibly benefit from wearing those plastic masks (those for the entire face that you put on like glasses) while cooking??
Yay! I need this info
Thanks for watching
Have lupus, have worn sunscreen consistently for the past almost 30 years, wore hats and protective clothing, stayed out of the sun. Should have a beautiful complexion, right? Developed melasma in the past 10 years. So frustrating. Does sun exposure in early life contribute or is it solely hormonal? I feel I could get away without wearing makeup if it weren't for the stupid melasma!
I also have lupus, (which has been in remission for 4 years, yay!) but I was a sun worshiper in my early years (I am now 59), & never wore sunscreen, but had perfect skin until my lupus kicked in in my early 30’s. I had terrible sores on my face & am now dealing with hyperpigmentation on one side of my face & melasma on the other. It is really frustrating! I totally believe that early sun exposure plays a role, just from personal experience, but I don’t know for sure. Great question!! I am sending you lots of healing energy. ❤
@@LindaKayHolevas You're so kind! I have been EXTREMELY fortunate with my lupus experience. Medications have kept things well under control, with just a few flares. I have led a very normal life except for the self-imposed hermiting from the sun, but I still played outside with my kids when they were young. So while I had rashes from time to time, it never got to the sore level. Thanks for giving me perspective and reminding me how fortunate I have been. I should not care what anyone thinks of my skin at this point as most people think I'm about 5-10 years younger than I am. Healing thoughts & hopeful thoughts that you're in remission FOREVER!!! ❤
@@mbritt9738 ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Greetings Dr Dray hope u r well n 🖐Hello Every1 n Happy Friday😀n what a Wonderful Vid…. thanks n This is Gonna b so Helpful🔥👍n Continued Blessings to All💜….
Happy Friday!
Happy Friday Whitney Brown. Have a lovely day and be well. Hope you enjoy your weekend.
Greetings d b hope u r well n Happy Friday😀👍💜….
Can you talk about the pico pro laser?
Dr dray !!! I used the triple confination cream for 3 months /once a week and i absolutly got lighter skin tone but my LOVELY MOLES ARE FADING !!!! 💔😂
@fatima can u share what kind of triple combination, it is over the counter??? Thanku