Hi,

Thank you for your question!

Melasma is a chronic skin disorder, affecting more women than men, resulting in symmetrical, blotchy, brown coloured facial pigmentation. Melasma is more common in people who tan well or have naturally brown skin (Fitzpatrick skin types 3 and 4) than in those who have fair skin (Fitzpatrick skin types 1 and 2) or dark brown to black skin (Fitzpatrick skin types 5 and 6).

The pigmentation of melasma is due to the overproduction of melanin, the protein responsible for our skin colour, and may be triggered in susceptible individuals by: sun exposure (UV and visible light), the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), oral or implantable contraceptives, hypothyroidism, and by scented toiletries or cosmetics and certain medications which precipitate a phototoxic skin reaction. We discuss skin pigmentation in greater detail here.

Melasma can be slow to respond to treatment. General measures to help improve the appearance of melasma include using a very high protection (SPF 50+) sunscreen every day, year-round. Sunscreens containing iron oxides, such as SunSense Daily Face SPF 50+ , are especially beneficial as they screen visible light in addition to UV radiation. We also recommend using gentle, fragrance-free skincare, such as the products in the QV Face range, to cleanse and moisturise the skin.

The Elucent Even Tone range of products have been designed to help improve the appearance of skin pigmentation conditions such as melasma. The products in the range contain a combination of ingredients which work synergistically to inhibit the overproduction of melanin in the skin, resulting in a more even skin tone. For very pronounced hyperpigmentation issues, we recommend that you consult a medical professional for treatment with prescription only medicines or specialised laser treatment.

For skin blemishes we recommend Azclear Action Medicated Lotion, which has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and exfoliating properties to combat acne. The active ingredient in Azclear Action Medicated Lotion, azelaic acid, also inhibits melanin synthesis, making it an effective adjunct in improving skin hyperpigmentation issues such as melasma.

As with all acne preparations, it is important to remember that successful treatment of acne requires commitment to a regime. If you experience local irritation to the skin such as redness, itching, peeling and burning when starting treatment with this product. These side effects are usually transient and generally subside after 2 to 4 weeks. Should this occur with initial use of the product, we advise reducing the frequency of application from twice daily to once daily until the irritation disappears or to temporarily discontinue treatment.

We hope we’ve answered your question!

Please don’t hesitate to ask us more questions about your skin. If you have any specific questions about Ego products, please don’t hesitate to contact our Customer Service Team on 1800 033 706 or email us at customer service@egopharm.com

Kind regards,
Ego Pharmaceuticals