Dark Under Eye Treatments

What causes Melasma or “The Veil of Pregnancy?”

Melasma, commonly referred to as the “Mask or Veil of Pregnancy,” is a skin condition that results in tan or brown patches of hyperpigmentation of the upper cheeks, nose, lips and forehead. It can occur during pregnancy, while on hormone replacement therapy/contraceptives or as a reaction to medications or cosmetics. Melanocytes, pigment producing cells in the skin, are stimulated by estrogen and progesterone to produce pigment in response to sun exposure. Less commonly, men can also develop Melasma. The condition occasionally improves after pregnancy in women. There are two primary forms of Melasma, epidermal and dermal. The epidermal form of Melasma is more superficial in the skin, can be diagnosed with special lighting, and is more responsive to treatment. The dermal form of Melasma is deeper in the skin and more resistant to treatment.

How is Melasma treated?

The management of Melasma includes preventive measures such as limiting sun exposure from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M., wearing a wide brimmed hat, and applying sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater. Sunscreen requires re-application every 3-4 hours or sooner if you are sweating or swimming. Your sunscreen should include zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or avobenzone (parsol 1789) to block both UVA and UVB rays. Corrective measures include using bleaching creams such as hydroquinone, arbutase, azaleic acid or kojic acid. Tretinoin, chemical peels and microdermabrasion can help with exfoliation. Combination medicines, such as Triluma®, which includes tretinoin, hydroquinone and a steroid, can be convenient and effective. Prescription strength skin care systems such as Obagi Nuderm® can also be helpful in some patients.

Can Lasers be used to help manage Melasma?

Certain types of lasers such as Sciton’s ProFractional Erbium, MicroLaser Peel, or Broad Band Light can be effective in some forms of Melasma but they can also worsen the condition in others. More superficial forms of epidermal melasma are amenable to treatment with lasers in conjunction with skin care products. The deeper the melasma, the harder it is to treat with either skin care or lasers. Due to cost considerations and these risk factors Lasers or Light treatments are not usually the first line of treatment for this condition.

What can I do if I have the deeper form of Melasma?

If conservative topical measures are not effective, then more definitive treatment may be required such as pigment removing chemical peels such as the Melanage® Peel. This peel combines tretinoin and arbutase to synergistically clear existing pigment and suppress pigment producing cells. It is typically followed by a maintenance cream of similar ingredients at a lower dose and the preventive measures listed above. While Melasma is a vexing, chronic condition without a cure, it can be effectively managed with an organized approach to skin care. If you stop your skin care or abuse your skin with too much sun exposure, your melasma is sure to return! Take a few sensible precautions after your treatment and you can continue to enjoy clear, pigment free skin!

For additional information about managing Melasma, contact us at office@instituteplasticsurgery.com.

Why Choose Dr. Shah

We understand that men have unique concerns about their appearance. Dr. Bivik Shah and his experienced team are dedicated to providing a welcoming, professional environment where you can feel comfortable discussing your aesthetic goals.

Dr. Shah focuses on delivering results that are natural and masculine, enhancing your appearance without compromising your rugged, masculine features. Our personalized approach means that your treatment plan will be tailored to your needs, leading to the best possible outcome.

What Causes Dark Circles?

Dark circles under the eyes can be caused by several factors, including:

• Genetics: Some men are more prone to developing dark circles due to hereditary factors.
• Aging: Over time, the skin under the eyes can thin, making blood vessels more visible and contributing to a darker appearance.
• Lifestyle Factors: Stress, lack of sleep, and poor nutrition can worsen the appearance of dark circles.

There are two primary forms of melasma: epidermal and dermal. The epidermal form is more superficial in the skin, can be diagnosed with special lighting, and is more responsive to treatment. The dermal form is deeper in the skin and more resistant to treatment.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Men

We offer a comprehensive range of advanced, non-surgical treatments specifically designed to address dark circles in men. These treatments focus on enhancing your natural appearance while maintaining a masculine look.

• Injectable Fillers for Dark Circles: Injectable fillers like Restylane add volume to the under-eye area, reducing hollowness and minimizing shadows. This minimally invasive treatment provides a refreshed, youthful appearance with immediate results and minimal downtime.

• Laser Resurfacing: Laser resurfacing targets pigmentation issues and stimulates collagen production, improving the texture and tone of the under-eye area. This non-invasive treatment can significantly reduce the visibility of dark circles.

• Chemical Peels: Chemical peels exfoliate the outer layers of skin, reduce hyperpigmentation, and improve the overall texture of the under-eye area. This treatment helps diminish dark circles and revitalize the skin.

• Topical Treatments: We offer medical-grade skincare products to help treat dark circles. The Obagi Nu-Derm® System is particularly effective for addressing pigmentation issues, while Tri-Luma® cream combines hydroquinone, tretinoin, and a corticosteroid to target stubborn dark spots. These topical treatments work by lightening pigmentation and enhancing skin quality.

• Microdermabrasion: Microdermabrasion is a minimally invasive procedure that gently exfoliates the skin’s surface, promoting cell renewal and enhancing the absorption of other treatments. It is particularly beneficial when used in combination with other treatments for dark under eye circles.

Ideal Candidates for Dark Under Eye Treatments

Dark under-eye treatments at the Columbus Institute of Plastic Surgery are suitable for individuals who:

• Have dark circles caused by genetic factors, aging, or lifestyle choices like poor sleep and stress.
• Experience hollowness or pigmentation issues under the eyes.
• Prefer non-surgical solutions to refresh their appearance.
• Seek a natural and masculine enhancement of their under-eye area.
• Are in good overall health and have realistic expectations.