7/24/2012

Melasma Update...It's Getting Worse!

Sept 2011

March 2012

July 2012


I've been avoiding taking a picture without makeup. (the last picture is 4 years after the beginning of my treatment)

As you can see things have been getting worse.  I haven't been to the dermatologist in a year, mainly due to money issues and laziness.

What have I been doing differently?

Well first of all, I changed my foundation from avene compact creme foundation to avene liquid foundation.  I did this just because I was tired of the heavy foundation and since my melasma had lightened so much I thought I could get away with it.  My dermatologist had recommended using one or the other.  I had always opted for the compact one because it created more of a physical barrier against the sun.  I have bought the compact foundation for the summer and wear it during the day along with my sunscreen.

I have also run out of my prescription cream of  hydroquinona 8%, and 0.01 retinoic acid.  Haven't used it regularly since April.

What remains the same?

1. No sun exposure to my face.  Sunblock daily including cloudy days.
2. I use foundation daily for physical barrier.

So, as you can see,  I think I should be heading back to my dermatologist.  I know what she'll recommend.  The usual prescription cream and probably a few Miami Peels.  I really didn't want to get any more peels done but I'm thinking I may have to, so as to tide me over for another 5 years.

I definitely think and now know melasma will be with me for life.  I am still battling with it.  I will be a good girl and go back to the dermatologist, even though summer isn't the best time to do this, but I think I shouldn't wait any longer....things could get even worse.

I'll let you know what happens at the doctor.  I'll be making an appointment next week.

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