Melasma
 
Melasma is a skin condition in which patches of brown or tan discoloration appear on the forehead, cheeks, lips, nose or forearms as a result of the body’s sudden overproduction of pigment. Sometimes called the “mask of pregnancy,” melasma can afflict anyone, but is most often triggered in women—especially during the hormonal fluctuations associated with pregnancy, oral contraceptive use or hormone replacement therapy.

Melasma affects an estimated six million people in the US alone. Though not dangerous, the condition can cause embarrassment and undermine self-confidence.

Conventional remedies for melasma include enzyme inhibitors, depigmenting agents, bleaches, steroids, pulsed light, acid facial peels and aggressive dermabrasion techniques. Seldom are such strategies effective. Traditional laser treatments can also produce lackluster results. No wonder so many people give up and simply hide themselves behind heavy makeup.

A breakthrough finally came when the FDA approved Fraxel® Laser Treatment for melasma after studies showed that the new laser could be highly effective even in cases where traditional therapies had failed.