Melasma Treatment NYC | Lasers, Microneedling, Skin Care

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Expert Care by Dr. Arash Akhavan, a Board-Certified Dermatologist

Melasma is one of the most difficult types of skin hyperpigmentation to treat. It is also a condition that is typically very distressing to patients. Thankfully we now have great options to help manage melasma including PicoWay Laser and AnteAge Brightening Growth Factor Solution. Dr. Arash Akhavan, a board-certified dermatologist and an authority in melasma treatment, thoroughly evaluates each patient's skin condition to recommend the most effective approach, including topical and laser treatments. His board certification signifies a high level of expertise and commitment to excellence in dermatological care.

The Dermatology and Laser Group offers a comprehensive range of effective methods designed to address and reduce the appearance of stubborn hyperpigmentation. Dr. Arash Akhavan, a top Manhattan dermatologist, utilizes state-of-the-art techniques including PicoWay laser therapy and medical microneedling with AnteAGE Brightening Solution. His approach ensures that patients receive the most suitable care tailored to their individual skincare needs. The treatment spectrum encompasses various modalities, from advanced laser treatments to chemical peels, highlighting the importance of a professional consultation with Dr. Akhavan to develop a customized treatment strategy.

Melasma

Melasma, a skin condition often influenced by hormonal changes, sun exposure, and genetic factors, can significantly affect skin tone. Dr. Arash Akhavan is a leader in melasma treatment , offering an array of non-invasive procedures such as topical melasma treatments, microneedling, and advanced PicoWay laser therapy.

In managing and preventing melasma, sun protection and a skincare regimen customized to individual needs are crucial. Regular consultations with Dr. Akhavan play a pivotal role in maintaining the efficacy of these treatments.

Understanding Melasma: Root Causes and Manifestations

Melasma, often referred to as epidermal melasma, is a chronic skin condition characterized by the development of brown or grayish-brown patches, predominantly on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and other facial areas.

This prevalent but frequently troubling issue stems from a blend of factors, including hormonal changes, sun exposure, genetic predisposition, and in some cases, hormonal medications such as birth control pills. Thoroughly understanding these causes is crucial for formulating an effective treatment strategy that targets the root of the problem.

Hormonal Influences

Hormonal fluctuations significantly influence melasma's onset, with increased estrogen and progesterone levels often implicated in its development. Life stages like pregnancy, menopause, and the use of oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy are notable contributors. Occasionally, dermatologists may work in tandem with gynecologists to manage the impact of hormonal medications on melasma, with strategies like altering or discontinuing these medications offering potential benefits in reducing melasma's severity and enhancing skin appearance.

Impact of Sun Exposure

The role of sun exposure in melasma is pivotal, as ultraviolet (UV) rays activate melanocytes, which in turn overproduce melanin, resulting in darkened skin patches. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can exacerbate melasma, underscoring the importance of sun protection in both prevention and management. Measures such as applying broad-spectrum sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade are essential in mitigating melasma's aggravation or recurrence. However, for effective treatment, consulting a dermatologist is imperative to explore suitable options and address factors that might worsen melasma.

Genetic Factors

Genetic predisposition also plays a role in melasma, especially among individuals with olive or darker skin tones. Even very light skin tones can be prone to melasma. A significant number of melasma patients report a family history of the condition. Awareness of one's family history regarding melasma can be instrumental in understanding personal risk factors and implementing appropriate preventative measures.

Diverse Melasma Treatment Options

The Dermatology and Laser Group offers a broad array of treatment options for melasma, targeting clearer and more balanced skin tones. Among these are topical treatments, microneedling, laser therapy, and innovative methods like chemical peels and intense pulsed light.

Topical Treatments

Topical treatments, including hydroquinone, tretinoin, vitamin C serums, and azelaic acid, are pivotal in lightening melasma patches. By reducing melanin production and accelerating skin cell turnover, these treatments offer a path to improved skin appearance. Adherence to a dermatologist-prescribed regimen is crucial for achieving the best results while managing any side effects like redness or irritation.

Microneedling for Melasma

Microneedling, a minimally invasive option, effectively treats melasma by inducing micro-injuries on the skin, thus stimulating collagen production and enhancing skin rejuvenation. This technique can be synergistically combined with topical treatments for more pronounced melasma improvements.

Dermatologists typically recommend a series of four to six microneedling sessions, spaced four to six weeks apart, to see significant melasma reduction.130

Advanced Melasma Laser Treatment

Laser treatments, specifically PicoWay, represent a sophisticated approach to melasma treatment. PicoWay lasers target melanin pigments with ultra-short energy pulses, effectively lightening dark patches and enhancing skin quality.

For optimal results, it's essential to have these treatments administered by a board-certified dermatologist with extensive experience in laser therapy, ensuring both efficacy and safety.

Best Melasma Treatments Available

Dr. Arash Akhavan, a board-certified dermatologist, is recognized as a leading authority in melasma treatment in New York City. Bringing over a decade of expertise, Dr. Akhavan excels in a range of non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures, including chemical peels, advanced laser treatments, and medical microneedling. He utilizes FDA-cleared PicoWay laser treatment and the AnteAGE Brightening Solution with medical microneedling, combined with skin care recommendations, to provide patients with the most effective results tailored to each patient's specific skin needs.

PicoWay Laser Treatment: The Most Advanced Melasma Technology

PicoWay laser treatment, an FDA-approved method for melasma, utilizes ultra-short picosecond pulses to precisely target melanin in melasma patches. This advanced technique ensures the surrounding skin remains unharmed. The treatment's benefits compared to other lasers include reduced melasma appearance, minimal risk of side effects like hyperpigmentation, shorter session durations, and generally fewer treatment sessions required for noticeable results. The PicoWay is also a great skin rejuvenating treatment.

Medical Microneedling with AnteAGE Brightening Solution

Medical microneedling, when combined with AnteAGE Brightening Solution, offers a powerful approach to improving melasma. This innovative treatment boosts collagen and elastin production, while utilizing tranexamic acid to suppress excess melanin production. The base of the solution is a concentrate of growth factors isolated from bone marrow cells cultured in a laboratory. At The Dermatology and Laser Group we enhance the AnteAGE Brightening solution by adding our own additional tranexamic acid to create a more potent product. The synergistic effect of microneedling with the brightening solution provides a significant improvement in melasma, as well as the added benefit of skin rejuvenation.

Prevention and Long-Term Management of Melasma

The key to maintaining the benefits of melasma treatment is the prevention of its recurrence as long as possible, which hinges on rigorous sun protection and a skin care regimen tailored to individual skin needs. No matter what you do, the melasma is likely to slowly return without maintenance treatments, but this return of discoloration can be delayed as long as possible with proper skin care.

By embracing these preventative strategies and adhering to a customized treatment plan, you can ensure the longevity of your melasma treatment outcomes, achieving lasting results.

Comprehensive Sun Protection Tips

Protecting your skin from sun exposure is vital in preventing the return of melasma. To safeguard your skin, consider the following sun protection strategies:

Consistently apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF to shield your skin from harmful UV rays. Ideally you want to make sure you have the best protection possible against UVA specifically. The best sunscreens to protect against UVA damage have zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as ingredients.
Dress in protective clothing, including wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, to minimize direct sun exposure.
Opt for shaded areas when spending time outdoors.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating, to maintain effective protection.

Adhering to these sun protection measures is crucial in mitigating the risk of melasma aggravation or recurrence.

Tailored Skincare Regimen

A well-curated skincare routine, focusing on products that target hyperpigmentation and enhance overall skin health, is essential in preserving the results of your melasma treatment. Regular consultations with your dermatologist are recommended to receive personalized skincare advice and follow it meticulously. Proactively managing your skin and avoiding potential melasma triggers is key to maintaining a uniform, radiant complexion over time.

Tailored Consultation and Personalized Melasma Treatment Plans

Ensuring the most effective melasma treatment involves a personalized approach, beginning with a detailed consultation. Dr. Arash Akhavan offers an in-depth evaluation during the initial consultation, dedicating time to understand your skin condition and treatment goals.

This meticulous process enables him to craft a treatment plan that best aligns with your unique needs.

Initial Consultation Process

In your first meeting, Dr. Akhavan will conduct a thorough assessment of your skin condition and discuss your specific treatment objectives. This comprehensive evaluation is critical in formulating a treatment plan that is precisely tailored to address your concerns.

Preparing to clearly articulate your treatment goals and participating in a basic visual examination of the affected areas during this consultation is essential for a successful treatment plan.

Creating Your Customized Treatment Plan

Dr. Akhavan develops customized treatment plans that integrate both in-office procedures and at-home skincare regimens, specifically designed to meet your individual needs. This bespoke approach ensures a more targeted and effective management of melasma.

Dr. Akhavan's deep commitment to personalized care and his extensive expertise guarantee the highest standard of treatment for your melasma concerns.

Patient Reviews and Testimonials

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The Dermatology and Laser Group

4.9

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I get PicoWay Laser, Dr. Akhavan is the best- professional, kind and show me compassion (I did a boo boo) in between my laser sessions. Excellent customer service, professionalism and courteous staff. Front desk girl Vylia O is always helpful, respectful, friendly, and accommodating. Thanks Tiffany usually wants to know my feedback from the previous session. Olivia as well, and the rest of medical assistants, nurses. Also, esthetician Ally is great. I got my first Hydrafacial very nice experience, really like it- Ally explained every step. I’m a girl of color and I feel welcome here, and trust Dr.Akhavan and his staff. My skin, have improvement 90% and I’m very happy. Thanks 💛 Dermatology and Laser Group

I normally never write reviews but I think this is important to share! I became a patient of Dr. Akhavan to reduce the pigmentation and texture of significant acne scarring on my back.Using techniques such as microneedling, growth factors, chemical peels, steroid injections the scarring has significantly improved and the treatment course is not even over yet. I am so happy to have a doctor who is extremely efficient, kind, and patient, listening to my concerns and offering the best treatment available. I highly recommend Dr. Akhavan to anyone seeking procedural microneedling and any other skin concerns.He is the best!!

Contacted and scheduled an appointment online at a time that was convenient for me. Advised upfront of the consultation fee and available parking garages in the area. Upon my arrival I was greeted courteously and professionally. Wait time was minimal and I was greeted by a medical assistant who formally checked me in and explained the procedure and any concerns. The physician then came in and introduced himself and explained the procedure and again asked if I had any concerns. I opted to go for the procedure [masseter Botox for relief of issues caused by bruxism or teeth grinding]. Minimal pain with injection. Told to not touch injection site for 4 hours. I would highly recommend this practice. In fact, I have already passed on the info to my dentist, orthodontist and my private physicians. Will be going back in 6 months to get a second injection.

Response from the owner: Thank you for visiting us!

Very cooperative very knowledgeable, Supportive staff

Response from the owner: Thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Permanently Remove Melasma?

Unfortunately it is nearly impossible to permanently treat melasma. Thankfully, there are effective ways to manage it. It is also best to avoid any triggers if possible. Potential triggers include UV light, hormonal medications, and heat. While it's challenging to permanently remove melasma, effective management typically involves diligent sun protection and avoiding triggers like hormonal medications.

Can a Dermatologist Effectively Treat Melasma?

Yes- it is best to seek the care of a Board-Certified Dermatologist. A dermatologist's expertise is crucial in choosing the right combination of treatments based on the individual's skin condition.

What Are the Newest Treatments for Melasma?

Among the latest advancements in melasma treatment are the use of Picoway laser therapy and microneedling with the AnteAGE Brightening Solution. These innovative methods offer a modern approach to effectively target melasma. Picoway laser therapy utilizes ultra-short pulses for precise treatment, while microneedling with the AnteAGE Brightening Solution uses a combination of growth factors and tranexamic acid.

What Are the Main Causes of Melasma?

The primary causes of melasma include hormonal factors, sun exposure, and genetic predisposition. Understanding these factors is key to developing a successful treatment strategy.

Arash Akhavan, MD, FAAD

Arash Akhavan, MD is founder and owner of The Dermatology and Laser Group, one of the top centers for cosmetic procedures in New York City for over a decade. Arash Akhavan, MD, FAAD is a Board Certified Dermatologist and an Associate Professor at The Mount Sinai School of Medicine. Dr. Akhavan is a Castle Connolly Top Doc, New York Magazine Best Doctor, and Super Doctor featured in The New York Times. Dr. Akhavan is a key opinion leader that has been featured on hundreds of media publications including The New York Times, Allure, Marie Claire, Women’s Health, Cosmopolitan, ABC News, Fox News, Fox 5, NY1, WPIX, and more. He has been featured on nationally syndicated television programs such as The Doctors.

Dr. Akhavan serves as an educator and lecturer for multiple aesthetic device and injectable companies. This allows his office access to newer technologies at an earlier date than other offices, as well as a higher level of expertise in the use of these devices. This, in turn, translates to more effective and safer treatments for our patients.