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SKIN CONCERNS

Melasma treatment in Cirencester

Melasma is a hormonally driven pigmentation disorder causing symmetrical brown patches on the cheeks, upper lip or forehead. At ALBA Skin & Beauty Clinic in Cirencester it is managed conservatively with prescribed topicals, gentle peels and rigorous sun protection. Light and heat based treatments such as IPL are generally avoided because they can make melasma worse.

What is it

Symmetrical patches of pigment with soft, blurred edges, typically across both cheeks, the upper lip or the forehead. It is a chronic condition to be managed rather than cured, and it fluctuates with hormones and season.

What causes it

Hormonal changes combined with UV and heat. It commonly begins during pregnancy or after starting hormonal contraception, which is why it is sometimes called the mask of pregnancy. Heat alone can trigger it, including from cooking, saunas and hot cars.

What usually helps

Prescribed topical treatment is the mainstay, supported by gentle peels where the skin tolerates them. Daily broad-spectrum SPF with iron oxides is essential because visible light also drives melasma. Progress is slow and steady rather than dramatic.

What won’t help

IPL and heat-based resurfacing, which frequently worsen melasma even when they appear to clear it initially. Aggressive peels can also trigger rebound pigmentation. This is the concern where doing less genuinely achieves more.

FAQs

Can melasma be cured?

Melasma is managed rather than cured. It fluctuates with hormones, heat and sun exposure, so treatment focuses on reducing the pigment and preventing it returning. Most people need ongoing maintenance rather than a fixed course.

Why do you not use IPL for melasma?

Heat and visible light can stimulate the pigment-producing cells involved in melasma, so IPL often makes it worse over time even if it appears to clear initially. At ALBA Skin & Beauty Clinic melasma is treated with topical and gentle approaches instead.

Will melasma go away if I stop the pill?

It sometimes improves, but often does not resolve on its own once established. Sun and heat protection remain necessary either way, and this is worth discussing with your GP alongside your treatment plan here.

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