Melasma Treatment in Beverly Hills

Treatment of skin pigmentation disorders like melasma (also known as pregnancy mask or chloasma).

Dr. Monika Kiripolsky is nationally recognized as a top cosmetic dermatologist and has particular expertise in the treatment of skin pigmentation disorders such as melasma. Her office is located in Beverly Hills, California.

What is Melasma?

Melasma is occasionally referred to as “chloasma” or “the mask of pregnancy”, although it is oftentimes seen in people who are not pregnant. It is a skin pigment disorder that is seen as patchy brown areas of skin on sun-exposed areas like the forehead, cheeks, upper lip, nose, and chin. Although melasma is seen in people of all skin tones, it is more common in those with darker skin than in those with fair skin.

What Causes Melasma?

Melasma is due to an overproduction of pigment (“melanin”) by the cells in the affected areas. Even with minimal exposure to the sun, ultraviolet light makes these areas darker. Female hormone fluctuations contribute to melasma, as pregnancy, birth control pills, and certain types of hormone therapy exacerbate the condition. In addition to ultraviolet light and hormone fluctuations, melasma is also exacerbated by excessive exposure to heat as well as inflammation.

How do Dermatologists Treat Melasma?

Unfortunately, melasma is a chronic condition and there is no “cure” for it. However, there are several treatment options.

First-line treatment includes a topical cream regimen that Dr. Kiripolsky will customize based upon your skin type/condition that you will apply at home. The regimen will include bleaching agents (like hydroquinone), retinoids, and other topicals that minimize oil (“sebum”) production by your skin. Strict photoprotection with sunblocks containing physical blockers, like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, is also an essential part of treating melasma.

Dr. Kiripolsky also has certain chemical peels and lasers to treat melasma. Some patients benefit from taking a short course of oral Accutane (isotretinoin), as this minimizes sebum production and sebum causes inflammation in the skin, which exacerbates melasma.

If you are in the Beverly Hills or Los Angeles area and would like to discuss treatment options for your melasma,

call Dr. Monika Kiripolsky at 424-652-6563 (MKMD) to schedule your appointment with Dr. Kiripolsky.

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150 Robertson Blvd #250
Beverly Hills, CA 90211
424-652-6563