Melasma and hyperpigmentation have historically been some of the toughest skin conditions to treat because discoloration lies so deep within the skin’s layers and is hard for medications to target. However, with CosmelanMD, these conditions can be greatly improved.
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What is Cosmelan MD and what does it do?Cosmelan MD is a depigmentation agent which acts by decreasing melanin from the skin. Melanin is responsible for the darkening of the skin and contributing to such factors as melasma and other skin discolorations. Melanin is increased by sun exposure, acne, aging, and hormone fluctuation.
Cosmelan MD has the ability to inhibit an enzyme (tyrosinase) that is involved in the process of causing skin darkening. Cosmelan MD leads to a decrease in melanin synthesis and hence to a decrease in darkened skin color. Studies have shown that Cosmelan MD can effectively reduce skin discolorations by up to 90% if used appropriately. Cosmelan MD treatments are compounded prescription medications that contain an in-office peel application and home care products. It contains hydrowuinone and results in a bit stronger peel effect. Your initial treatment includes one in-office topical cream application (Cosmelan MD 1 peel), and the home care regimen for approximately two weeks (Cosmelan 2 and Vitamin K). It is recommended purchasing an extra Cosmlan 2 to use for the following few months for best results. |
Where is Cosmelan MD Used?
MDCosmelan peels are most often applied to the face, but can also be used on other parts of the body. It is applied in a topical cream form in the office, followed by a post-peel home care regiment.
What is the Cosmelan MD Treatment Like?
During your consultation, it will be decided whether or not Cosmelan MD is the appropriate treatment option for your needs. Before beginning, a consent form for the procedure will be signed and all steps of the procedure will be covered for your home care regimen.
For the in-office portion, your face will be cleansed with soap and water, then alcohol. This allows the skin to be thoroughly cleansed and gives a good surface for the Cosmelan 1 peel, which is then applied.
The compounds have a yellowish/brown hue and must remain on the skin for 6-12 hours depending on your skin type. The exact amount of time will be determined by your provider. It is suggested that you return home after the peel is applied since the skin will have a yellowish, brown hue for the entire time it’s on the skin. After the recommended hours you will remove the peel with a light cleanser and the home care steps begin.
For your home care, you will be given instructions for daily use of the Cosmelan 2 and Vitamin K. It is important that you follow these instructions and use the products appropriately over a two week period. As well, you must use sunscreen daily (which you should do anyway!). After a few weeks, you will return to the office to meet with your provider and assess your results and next steps.
For the in-office portion, your face will be cleansed with soap and water, then alcohol. This allows the skin to be thoroughly cleansed and gives a good surface for the Cosmelan 1 peel, which is then applied.
The compounds have a yellowish/brown hue and must remain on the skin for 6-12 hours depending on your skin type. The exact amount of time will be determined by your provider. It is suggested that you return home after the peel is applied since the skin will have a yellowish, brown hue for the entire time it’s on the skin. After the recommended hours you will remove the peel with a light cleanser and the home care steps begin.
For your home care, you will be given instructions for daily use of the Cosmelan 2 and Vitamin K. It is important that you follow these instructions and use the products appropriately over a two week period. As well, you must use sunscreen daily (which you should do anyway!). After a few weeks, you will return to the office to meet with your provider and assess your results and next steps.
What Kind of Results can I Expect from the Cosmelan MD Treatment?
You should expect some peeling and flaking of the skin. Make-up can be applied daily and light moisturizers and sunscreens should be used throughout the treatment.
No glycolic peels or other lightening agents should be used while you are using Cosmelan MD. You should not experience pain, but some stinging and pinkness of the skin can be expected, particularly at night when the home care products are used.
Some people are allergic to hydroquinone; although this is rare. If you use hydroquinone products and are allergic, it can result in additional hyperpigmentation and discoloration. You should not use CosmelanMD if you have this allergy.
During the two weeks and post-treatment, you will notice a lightening of the treated discoloration and a “breaking up” of the melanin. These results will increase over time. You should use daily sunscreen and can purchase additional home care products, to help keep the melanin from reappearing or developing new areas of pigmentation. If needed, additional full Cosmelan MD treatments can be performed.
No glycolic peels or other lightening agents should be used while you are using Cosmelan MD. You should not experience pain, but some stinging and pinkness of the skin can be expected, particularly at night when the home care products are used.
Some people are allergic to hydroquinone; although this is rare. If you use hydroquinone products and are allergic, it can result in additional hyperpigmentation and discoloration. You should not use CosmelanMD if you have this allergy.
During the two weeks and post-treatment, you will notice a lightening of the treated discoloration and a “breaking up” of the melanin. These results will increase over time. You should use daily sunscreen and can purchase additional home care products, to help keep the melanin from reappearing or developing new areas of pigmentation. If needed, additional full Cosmelan MD treatments can be performed.