What is Melasma and how to treat it | Dr Sam in the City

Melasma Here's my practical guide to melasma - what it is, how to treat it and ways to stop it from coming back so you can get back to enjoying summer. Hyperpigmentation is one of the commonest complaints I see in clinic – and melasma is perhaps the biggest challenge. This results in hard-to-conceal brown/grey splodges in the centre of the face and its more common in women with deeply pigmented skin who are exposed to UV, often in the context of pregnancy or oral contraceptives. It often requires a prescription skincare approach; but if its mild, it’s worth considering trying these over-the-counter measures to bring it under control. AM Bioderma White Objective serum Glo Therapeutics Dual Advantage Cream Obagi Professional C Serum PM topical retinoid LA Roche Posay Redermic R Avene Ystheal or Eluage range Medik8 Retinol range + Physical sunscreen 365 days a year, especially when pregnant, and even when indoors (and apply it properly; see my earlier video) : Current favourites are -Neostrata Sheer Physical protection SPF 50 -Jan Marini SPF30 Physical protectant Consider a product with Iron Oxide for additional protection against visible light Avene High Protetcion Compact SPF50 Consider Heliocare Ultra capsules or try UVO Drink if in the US. About 'Dr Sam in the City' I’m Dr Sam Bunting, a London-based cosmetic dermatologist specialising in great skin. I’m passionate about making dermatology a more talked about and accessible topic, for everyone – not just fo