Melasma Treatment

Even the healthiest skin can develop melasma – patches of brown or tan pigment that often appear on the cheeks, forehead, or chin. Some instances of melasma may cover large areas of skin, leaving people feeling self-conscious about their appearance. Dr. Hayes Gladstone of Gladstone Clinic provides melasma treatment to patients in San Ramon, San Francisco, Pleasanton and the surrounding communities in California.

What Is Melasma?

Melasma is a condition in which brown or tan patches appear on the skin. It most often occurs on the face, but may also be present on areas that are routinely exposed to the sun, such as the forearms or back of the hands. Women are affected by melasma more often than men, as female hormones are thought to play a part in its development. Expectant mothers often contract melasma during pregnancy, only to find that the condition disappears during the postpartum stages.

Benefits of Melasma Treatment

More pronounced cases of melasma are often difficult to cover with makeup, and might, therefore, cause people to become self-conscious. Treating melasma allows for a better complexion and the improved self-confidence that comes from having glowing, healthy skin.

Who Is the Ideal Candidate for a Melasma Treatment?

Anyone who has pronounced cases of melasma that cause them undue stress may want to consider treatment. Even so, pregnant women should seek the advice of their gynecologist first.

What Do I Need to Do Before a Melasma Treatment?

That will depend upon the type of treatment recommended. If Dr. Gladstone recommends a topical medication or cream, no advance preparation is required. On the other hand, you might need to avoid sun exposure and use certain facial moisturizers prior to getting dermabrasion or a chemical peel.

How Long Does it Take to Perform a Melasma Treatment?

This will depend on the type of treatment recommended. Topical solutions are applied at home and require only a few minutes of your time each day. A chemical peel or dermabrasion could take around an hour or so in our office.

What to Expect After a Melasma Treatment?

Dr. Gladstone will provide you with more information once he has developed a treatment plan.

Will I Have Scars After Getting a Melasma Treatment?

The odds of you developing scars after a melasma treatment are very low, even when having a more intense procedure, such as a chemical peel or dermabrasion.

When Will I See the Results?

Melasma normally does not go away immediately. You will gradually notice dark patches become lighter and lighter until finally, they are no longer visible.

How Long Will the Results of a Melasma Treatment Last?

That can be difficult to determine, since future sun exposure or fluctuations in hormones could cause another outbreak. In particular, women who are taking birth control pills may find that their melasma returns only a short time later.

How Much Does a Melasma Treatment Cost in San Ramon?

Making treatment affordable is our primary concern, which is why we offer a number of payment options that include cash, personal checks, and most major credit cards. Qualified patients may obtain financing through:

We also accept most major forms of insurance. Our staff is always happy to work with you and your insurance company to determine if any benefits are available and then come up with a plan for paying any remaining balance.

Gladstone Clinic is passionately committed to reflecting your inner beauty. Using the latest and most advanced procedures for cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, our team offers services emphasizing overall health and wellness to the residents of San Ramon, San Francisco, Pleasanton and the surrounding communities in California. Please contact us today to schedule a melasma treatment consultation!