Melasma is a common and often distressing skin condition characterized by the development of brown or greyish-brown patches, typically on the face, although it can occur on other sun-exposed areas of the body as well and microneedling for melasma can make it even worse.

What does microneedling for melasma do to your skin?

The generally asked question is “what is the reason of getting melasma?”. It primarily affects women, particularly those with darker skin tones, and is often associated with,

• Hormonal fluctuations, such as pregnancy,
• Birth control pills
• hormone replacement therapy
• The exact cause of melasma is not fully understood, but it is believed to be influenced by a combination of factors, including genetics, UV exposure, and hormonal changes.

Microneedling for melasma: 5 common misconceptions

The microneedling for melasma is different from regular microneedling because the care regimen is complicated and vary from patient to patient. Here are 5 common misconceptions that make the treatment less effective and disappoint the people who get microneedling for miraculous results.

1- It literally effects million of people and a very common misconception about melasma is mixing it up with hyperpigmentation, most commonly because of sun-damage or a .prominent sign of ageing but it might be result of some underlying cause. So, the treatment regimen is totally different. Carryout some essential tests on the client and then go ahead for microneedling.

2- There could be number of underlying causes for melasma ,one of which is thyroid disease. It is essential to root out the cause and then use microneedling as a combination therpay. Otherwise, microneedling wouldn’t work.

3- It is generally percieved that by superficially treating the skin with RF, chemical peels and micro-needles, Melasma can be reversed. The truth is , it even gets worst if these fancy treatments are done alone. These can be used as a combination therapy but not the sole treatment for melasma. Unfortunately, microneedling alone couldn’t do wonders to the skin with melasma and potentially aggravate the situation.

4- Another perception is that applying topicals can help make it better. The reality on the other hand is quite different, one thing which is not taken seriously by melasma patients is applying sun-screen with specific composition after getting microneedling. The sunscreen must be SPF 45-60, it must contain 9-10% Zinc or titanium oxide and use it more than once in a day.

5- Most sensitive of all is not using “Active ingredient” after getting microneedling for melasma. For melasma consider using actives like Vitamin-C, Retinol and hydroquinone e.t.c., because they can considerably shut down the production of melanin which ultimately leads to melasmic pigmentation.

The pigmentation can be stubborn and challenging to treat, making it a chronic concern for many individuals. Preventative measures such as sun protection and targeted skincare are often recommended to manage melasma, and various treatments like topical creams, chemical peels, and laser therapy may be employed to lighten the patches and improve skin appearance. However, complete eradication can be challenging, and long-term management is typically necessary to control its effects effectively.

Can microneedling help with melasma? Is it good for melasma?.

It depends, in some cases, this can help to improve the appearance of melasma by increasing the turnover of pigmented skin cells and encouraging the fading of dark patches. However, it’s essential to note that melasma is a complex condition influenced by factors like hormones and sun exposure, and no single treatment guarantees complete eradication. Combining microneedling with other treatments, such as topical depigmenting agent8s, strict sun protection, and ongoing skincare regimens tailored to melasma, can often yield more comprehensive and lasting results in managing this skin concern. Consulting with a dermatologist or skincare professional is crucial to developing a personalized treatment plan that best addresses individual melasma needs.

What additional products must be Implanted in the skin for melasma microneedling?

Utilize serums containing ingredients like hydroquinone, kojic acid, vitamin C, and niacinamide, which can help target melasma and inhibit melanin production. These serums can be applied before and after microneedling for melasma to enhance penetration.

Be very careful while using hydroquinone. It must be used in a specific concentration, i.e., about 4%, and if used regularly for 4-6 months, instead of making your skin better, it makes it worse or stops exhibiting results. As it results in inflammatory hyperpigmentation condition, risk of getting side effects is very high.

How many sessions of microneedling for melasma are needed?

The number of microneedling sessions required for melasma to show results can vary from person to person based on the severity of the condition, individual skin response, and the specific microneedling protocol used. However, as a general guideline:

Microneedling for melasma is not recommended without sorting out the root cause.

1. Mild Melasma: Individuals with mild melasma may start seeing noticeable improvements after 3 to 4 sessions, typically spaced about 4 to 6 weeks apart. These improvements may include reducing the appearance of dark patches and improving skin texture.
2. Moderate Melasma: Those with moderate melasma may require more sessions, often around 6 to 8, with similar intervals between treatments. Results tend to become increasingly visible as the sessions progress.
3. Severe Melasma: Severe melasma cases may need more extended and more frequent treatment schedules, potentially up to 10 sessions or more, over several months. Having realistic expectations is essential, as complete clearance of melasma can be challenging. Usually, microneedling for melasma in severe conditions is not recommended.

In conclusion, microneedling for melasma can be a valuable component of a comprehensive treatment option. It offers the potential to improve the appearance of melasma by stimulating collagen production and enhancing the penetration of depigmenting serums. However, it’s important to understand that if you opt microneedling for melasma results may vary, and a series of sessions, combined with diligent sun protection and skincare, is typically necessary for optimal outcomes. Consulting with a skincare professional or dermatologist for a personalized microneedling for melasma treatment plan is advisable to address it effectively and achieve the best results.