Journal

In this article, we will explore the causes of melasma, the available treatments, and how our product can help.

by Prachi Bhandari, Head of Research at Aminu Skincare

What is Melasma?

Melasma is a common skin condition that causes patches of hyperpigmentation on the face. It is typically related to hormonal changes, sun exposure, and genetics. While melasma is not harmful, it can be a cosmetic concern for many people. Topical treatments, such as Aminu’s Correcting Concentrate, can help to reduce the appearance of melasma and promote a more even skin tone. It is also essential to protect the skin from further sun damage to prevent the recurrence of melasma.

Before we dig deeper into the product details to treat melasma, let’s first learn how it is caused.

Causes of Melasma

The exact cause of melasma is not yet fully understood, but it is thought to be triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, play a significant role in the development of melasma, which is why it is often called the "mask of pregnancy." Women who take oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy are also more likely to develop melasma.

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds is another major factor in the development of melasma. UV radiation triggers the production of melanin, which is responsible for the skin's color. In people with melasma, the melanocytes (cells that produce melanin) in the affected areas produce too much melanin, resulting in hyperpigmentation.

Other factors that can contribute to melasma include certain medications, such as anticonvulsants and photo-sensitizing agents, as well as skin trauma, such as from laser treatments or chemical peels.

Treatment of Melasma

The treatment of melasma can be challenging and often requires a multifaceted approach. The first step is to identify and address any underlying hormonal or medical conditions that may be contributing to the development of melasma. This may involve discontinuing or changing medications or addressing hormonal imbalances.

Sun protection is crucial for preventing further damage and hyperpigmentation. This includes using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and wearing protective clothing, such as hats and sunglasses, when outdoors. Avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, especially during peak hours, is also recommended.

Topical treatments, such as hydroquinone, tretin0in can help to lighten the dark patches and even out skin tone. These products are available by prescription from a dermatologist or may be available over-the-counter in lower concentrations.

Chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and laser treatments are other options for treating melasma. These procedures can help to remove the outer layer of skin and reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation. However, they can also be expensive and may require several sessions to achieve the desired results.

How Correcting Concentrate works to tackle Melasma?

Our Correcting Concentrate is a multi-action brightening serum that uses next-gen, biotechnology-derived skin brighteners, plant AHAs, healing anti-inflammatory botanicals, vitamins, and amino acids to target melasma and other forms of hyperpigmentation. The Gallic Acid interacts with the skin’s natural microbiome through 7 different pathways related to skin pigmentation.

Here’s the list of ingredients & its role to treat melasma:

Diglucosyl Gallic Acid (DGA): More potent than Vitamin C and Kojic Acid, this ingredient is known to help restore a perfect-looking complexion while it helps even the appearance of the skin tone.

Niacinamide: Niacinamide, or Vitamin B3, is beneficial to the skin in many ways, including as a moisturizer and antioxidant. It can also help lessen the appearance of age spots, and is very tolerable by many skin types.

CICA + Mushrooms : A traditional medicinal herbs, with proven wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. They enhance the natural defenses of the skin, help fight free radicals and defend the skin against harmful environmental stressors.

AHA rich Caviar Lime - From sub-tropical rainforests of Australia, an innovative source of AHAs which provides gentle effective exfoliation to the skin. The unique superfruit along with vitamins and polyphenols restores a perfect and even skin tone and reduces pigmented spots.

HPA (Hydroxy-phenoxy Propionic Acid) : An innovative mechanism to reduces age spots, prevents the cell damage and is proven to prevent the production of the melanin pigments better than ascorbyl glucoside, kojic acid, and arbutin. It also has equivalent efficacy to hydroquinone without cytotoxicity.

The Correcting Concentrate is a comprehensive blend of active ingredients that work together to address the various symptoms of hyper-pigmentation. With regular use, the Correcting Concentrate can help to reduce the appearance of dark spots, even out skin tone, and promote a brighter, more youthful complexion.

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