Post-Pregnancy Skin Spots (Melasma)

Say Goodbye to Post-Pregnancy Stains and Get Your Radiance Back with AuraDent!

Pregnancy is one of the most miraculous times of life, but hormonal changes can lead to stubborn spots on the skin known as ‘melasma’ or ‘pregnancy mask’. These spots usually appear symmetrically on the cheeks, forehead, nose and upper lip and can affect the self-confidence of many women. Fortunately, you don’t have to fight these spots alone! At AuraDent Aesthetic Clinic in Nicosia, we offer state-of-the-art, personalized treatment solutions to help you deal with post-pregnancy skin spots. In this article, we will discuss in detail the causes of melasma, ways to prevent it and the effective treatment options we offer at AuraDent, such as mesotherapy, youth vaccine, microneedling, chemical peeling and laser. We are here to help you regain your smooth and blemish-free skin.

Pregnancy is one of the most special and transformative journeys in a woman's life. However, this beautiful process can also cause some unwanted changes in the skin due to hormonal fluctuations. The most common of these is 'melasma' or the 'pregnancy mask' as it is known among the public. These dark spots on the face can be annoying, but they can be controlled with the right approaches and modern treatment methods. As AuraDent Aesthetic Clinic in Nicosia, we are here to support you in this sensitive issue and offer the most effective solutions.

🤱What are Post-Pregnancy Skin Spots (Melasma)?

Melasma is a brown or gray-brown patch that is caused by excessive production of melanin pigment in the skin and usually appears symmetrically on the face. It most commonly occurs in sun-exposed areas such as the forehead, cheeks, bridge of the nose, upper lip and chin. During pregnancy, increased levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones stimulate pigment-producing cells called melanocytes, triggering melanin production. For this reason, pregnancy is one of the most common triggers of melasma, and the condition is also called 'chloasma' or 'pregnancy mask'.

🤷‍♀️ Why does it occur and who sees it more often?

Although the exact cause of melasma is not fully understood, several factors are known to play a role:

Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, use of birth control pills, hormone replacement therapies.
Sun Exposure: UV rays seriously stimulate melanin production and worsen melasma. This is the ultimate trigger!
Genetic Predisposition: The likelihood of developing melasma is higher in people with a family history of melasma.
Skin Type: Melasma may be more common in dark-skinned individuals because melanocytes are more active.
Certain Cosmetics and Medications: Products that irritate the skin or medications that cause photosensitivity can also trigger melasma.

🏠☀️ Melasma Coping Methods and Home Care

The most basic step in treating and preventing melasma is to protect yourself from the sun. This applies not only in the summer months, but throughout the year, even on cloudy days!

Broad Spectrum Sunscreen: Every day, 15-20 minutes before going outside, use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher (ideally SPF 50+) that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Mineral-based sunscreens (including zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) are especially preferable. Remember to renew every 2-3 hours.
Physical Protection: Wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing. Try to stay in the shade, especially during the hours when the sun is at its strongest (10:00-16:00).
Gentle Skin Care: Avoid harsh cleansers or exfoliators that can irritate your skin.

✨ Melasma Treatment Options at AuraDent

Post-pregnancy spots can sometimes lighten or disappear on their own after birth. However, they are often permanent and require professional treatment. As AuraDent Aesthetic Clinic, we offer the most up-to-date and effective methods for melasma treatment with personalized treatment plans:

💉 Mesotherapy and Youth Vaccine

Mesotherapy is the delivery of spot-lightening, antioxidant and skin-renewing ingredients (vitamin C, glutathione, tranexamic acid, arbutin, amino acids etc.) directly to the problematic layers of the skin through microinjections. Applications based on hyaluronic acid or containing special cocktails, known as the 'Youth Vaccine', support spot treatment by increasing the overall quality, moisture and health of the skin and help the skin appear brighter. These methods can provide effective results, especially when combined with other treatments.

🔬 Microneedling (Microneedling)

Microneedling is the process of opening controlled micro-channels on the skin surface with a device that has many fine needles on its tip. This process triggers the skin's natural healing mechanism and increases collagen and elastin production. More importantly, these opened micro-channels allow therapeutic products such as mesotherapy solutions, spot-lightening serums, PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) or Exosome to penetrate deeper layers of the skin. The combination of microneedling with Mesotherapy/Youth Vaccine/PRP/Exosome creates a synergistic effect in the treatment of melasma, allowing for more successful results.

💧 Chemical Peeling

It is a method where special chemical solutions are used to peel the upper layers of the skin. Different agents such as glycolic acid, salicylic acid, TCA (trichloroacetic acid) are used to renew the skin and eliminate superficial blemishes. The appropriate peeling agent and concentration are selected according to the depth of the blemish and skin type. It usually requires several sessions.

⚡ Laser and Light Therapies (e.g. Q-Switched Laser, IPL)

Laser treatments target and break down pigment cells (melanin) using light of specific wavelengths. Q-Switched Nd:YAG lasers are frequently used in the treatment of melasma. The laser can reach the pigments in the deep layers of the skin. Light-based systems such as IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) can also be used for some superficial stains and skin tone inequalities. Laser treatment should be applied carefully by experienced specialists, because incorrect parameters or application during hot seasons can worsen the stain. Our specialists at AuraDent will determine the most appropriate treatment option for your skin type and the condition of your stain.

🧴 Topical Treatments (Creams)

Prescription or medical creams containing hydroquinone, azelaic acid, kojic acid, vitamin C, niacinamide, retinoids (such as tretinoin) may also be part of the treatment plan when used under the supervision of a doctor. These creams work by suppressing melanin production or accelerating skin cell turnover. However, some can cause irritation and should be used with a doctor's advice.

🚀 What are the Fastest Treatment Methods?

The ‘fastest’ method for treating melasma varies from person to person, and combined approaches often provide the best results. For example, combining laser or chemical peeling sessions with microneedling and mesotherapy or PRP treatments can both target spots and improve the overall health of the skin. However, patience is key; melasma treatment often takes time, and you shouldn’t expect a miracle in a single session. For the most accurate and fastest results, it’s best to consult with our AuraDent doctors to create a personalized treatment plan for you.

🗓️ Treatment Process and Number of Sessions

The duration of treatment and the number of sessions required vary depending on the method chosen, the depth and spread of the blemish, and the skin's response to the treatment.

Chemical Peeling: Usually 4-6 sessions at 2-4 week intervals.
Laser Treatments: Usually 3-6 sessions or more, 3-4 weeks apart.
Microneedling/Mesotherapy: Usually 4-6 sessions at 2-4 week intervals.

Allow time for the skin to heal between treatments. It may take several weeks or months to see results.

⚠️ Risks and Things to Consider

As with any medical aesthetic procedure, melasma treatments can have potential risks and side effects:

Redness, swelling, peeling (temporary)
Skin sensitivity, dryness
Temporary darkening of the spot (Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation - PIH)
Infection (rare)
Hypopigmentation (the stain becomes lighter than normal) or worsening of the stain as a result of incorrect application

To minimize these risks, treatment must be performed by experienced specialists, with accurate diagnosis and personalized planning. It is very important to strictly follow your doctor's recommendations before and after treatment.

🛡️ Post-Treatment Care and Protection: The Most Important Step!

Even if melasma treatment is successful, the spots tend to recur, so aftercare and lifelong sun protection are critical.

Continue Sun Protection: After the treatment is completed, broad spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen should be used every day without exception.
Doctor's Recommendations: You should regularly use the maintenance treatments recommended by your doctor (e.g. special creams).
Avoid Triggers: In situations that may cause hormonal changes (a new pregnancy, change in birth control pills, etc.), extra caution should be taken and progress should be coordinated with your doctor.

Why AuraDent? ✨💯

You are not alone in your fight against post-pregnancy skin spots (melasma). AuraDent Aesthetic Clinic in Lefkoşa offers you special solutions with its state-of-the-art technologies and expert doctor staff, with the aim of 100% customer satisfaction. We understand the needs of your skin, create the most suitable treatment protocol for you by making a detailed analysis. Whether it is mesotherapy, microneedling or laser treatment, our aim is to restore the health and radiance of your skin.

Remember, the key to success in combating melasma is a correct diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan. You can take the best step for your skin by making a free consultation appointment with AuraDent's experienced doctors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1Are pregnancy spots (melasma) permanent?

Melasma can sometimes lighten or disappear on its own after birth or when hormonal triggers are eliminated. However, in most cases it is permanent and requires treatment. The appearance of the spots can be significantly reduced with treatment, but since melasma tends to recur, lifelong sun protection and maintenance treatments may be required. Our experts at AuraDent will evaluate your condition and determine the most appropriate treatment and protection strategy.

2When is the best time to treat melasma?

The best time to start melasma treatment is usually the autumn and winter months . Since the intensity of sunlight decreases during these periods, the risk of increased skin sensitivity to the sun after treatment is lower and the likelihood of spots is reduced. However, regardless of the time of year, it is essential to use high-factor sunscreen during and after treatment. At AuraDent, we offer safe treatment options in all seasons.

3Melasma treatment is painful ?

The level of discomfort varies depending on the type of treatment. Topical creams are usually painless. There may be a slight burning or stinging sensation during chemical peels. Since topical anesthetic cream is usually applied before microneedling and mesotherapy, the procedure is quite comfortable . In laser treatments, there may be a slight sensation like a rubber band or a temperature increase, but cooling systems in modern devices minimize this sensation. Patient comfort is our priority at AuraDent.

4Can I use spot-lightening creams without a doctor's advice?

No, it is risky to use spot-lightening creams, especially those with strong ingredients such as hydroquinone or retinoids, without a doctor's advice . Incorrect use can cause skin irritation, sensitivity, worsening of the spot (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation) or unwanted lightening of the skin color (hypopigmentation). AuraDent doctors provide a safe treatment process by determining the product and method of use appropriate for your skin type and the condition of your blemish.

5How long after treatment will I start seeing results?

The time it takes to see results varies depending on the treatment applied, the depth of the blemish and the individual response of the skin. While some superficial treatments (such as light peeling) may show improvement within a few weeks, deeper treatments such as laser or microneedling may require several sessions and several months for noticeable results . It is important to be patient and follow the treatment plan. Our AuraDent team will inform you throughout the process.

6Can microneedling worsen melasma?

Microneedling is an effective method in the treatment of melasma when performed by an experienced specialist at the correct depth and with the appropriate protocol. However, very aggressive applications or incorrect techniques can cause inflammation in the skin, causing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), a temporary worsening of the blemish. For this reason, it is critical that the treatment is performed by professional hands. Safe and effective application protocols are followed at AuraDent.

7Is mesotherapy sufficient for melasma on its own?

Mesotherapy can be beneficial in the treatment of melasma by delivering spot-lightening and skin-regenerating ingredients directly to the skin. However, it is usually not sufficient on its own , especially for deep or stubborn spots. The best results are usually obtained by combining mesotherapy with other treatment methods such as chemical peeling, laser or microneedling. AuraDent experts will recommend the most appropriate combination treatment for you.

8What should I pay attention to after laser treatment?

The skin becomes sensitive after laser treatment. Redness, mild swelling or crusting may occur in the first few days. It is important to use soothing and restorative creams recommended by your doctor. You should never peel or irritate the skin. Most importantly, you should be very careful to avoid the sun for at least 1 month after treatment, use SPF 50+ sunscreen regularly and avoid direct sunlight. The AuraDent team will provide detailed care instructions.

9Can melasma be treated during pregnancy?

Melasma treatment options are quite limited during pregnancy. Procedures such as laser, chemical peeling, microneedling and many topical creams (such as hydroquinone, retinoids) are generally not recommended during pregnancy. The most important thing that can be done during this period is to protect yourself from the sun very strictly (with sunscreens with safe mineral filters) in order not to worsen the condition. You can discuss treatment options with our AuraDent doctors after the birth and breastfeeding period is over.

10Does melasma also occur in men?

Yes, melasma is much more common in women, but it can also occur in men . The incidence rate in men is around 10%. Triggering factors are usually sun exposure and genetic predisposition. The treatment principles are similar to those in women. AuraDent Clinic offers effective treatment solutions to all melasma patients regardless of gender.

11What are the treatment costs?

The cost of melasma treatment varies depending on the selected method (laser, peeling, mesotherapy, etc.), the number of sessions required, the prevalence of the stain, and the clinic's pricing policy. Since combined treatments and more than one session are usually required, the total cost may differ. For the most accurate information, you can contact AuraDent Clinic for a free preliminary consultation and receive detailed information about the cost along with a personalized treatment plan.

12Does my skin type affect melasma treatment?

Yes, skin type is an important factor in melasma treatment. Especially in darker skin types (Fitzpatrick III-VI), the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (temporary darkening of the stain) or hypopigmentation (lightening) may be higher after procedures such as laser or chemical peeling. Therefore, the treatment plan should be tailored to your skin type. Our experts at AuraDent are experienced in determining safe and effective treatment protocols that are suitable for every skin type.

13Does a home dermaroller work for melasma?

The needle lengths of home dermarollers are generally shorter than professional microneedling devices, making them less effective. More importantly, when used in unhygienic conditions or with the wrong technique, they carry serious risks such as infection, scarring and even worsening of melasma. Professional microneedling treatments are much safer and more effective for treating a delicate condition like melasma. At AuraDent, we offer expert treatment in sterile conditions.

14Which vitamins or supplements are beneficial for melasma?

Some studies suggest that vitamins and supplements with antioxidant properties may support the treatment of melasma. It is thought that supplements such as vitamin C, vitamin E, Polypodium Leucotomos (fern extract) and Glutathione in particular can protect against the harmful effects of the sun and help reduce pigmentation. However, these supplements are not a treatment method on their own and you should definitely consult your AuraDent doctor before using them.

15What should I do if spots reappear after treatment?

It is important to remember that melasma tends to recur. If spots reappear after treatment, do not panic. First, review your sun protection and make sure you apply it adequately and regularly. Then, contact your AuraDent doctor to assess the situation and schedule maintenance treatment or additional sessions if necessary. Long-term follow-up and care are usually necessary to prevent recurrence.

Dr. Ayşenur Kayımbaşıoğlu

Dr. Ayşenur Kayımbaşıoğlu, Cosmetic Dentist, DDS, Cosmetologist, is a skilled Cosmetic Dentist and the Clinic Director of AuraDent Aesthetic Clinic in Nicosia. With a strong background in dental and facial aesthetics, she is dedicated to delivering natural, confident smiles through personalized treatment plans. Known for her gentle approach and attention to detail, Dr. Kayımbaşıoğlu combines advanced techniques with a passion for aesthetic harmony.