Melasma or Sunspot? Which Treatment is Suitable for Whom?
Dark spots on the skin are not only aesthetically disturbing but can also affect a persons self-confidence.
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Dark spots on the skin are not only aesthetically unsightly but can also impact a person's self-confidence. These spots are most common, such as melasma and sunspots. Because they are so similar, patients often confuse them. However, the diagnosis and treatment approaches differ. For those living in Istanbul, especially those seeking dermatological care in Nişantaşı, obtaining an accurate diagnosis and selecting the appropriate treatment method are crucial.
Special note from Prof. Dr. Nazan Yılmaz : “Not every blemish responds to the same treatment; therefore, first a correct diagnosis, then choosing a personalized method is essential.”
Melasma vs. Sunspots: Key Differences
| Feature | Melasma | Sunspot (solar lentigo) |
| Place of Sighting | Forehead, cheeks, upper lip | Face, back of hands, shoulders, décolleté |
| The reason | Hormonal factors, genetic predisposition, UV | UV exposure, aging |
| Appearance | Symmetrical, widespread dark spots | Limited, singular or multiple, brown |
| Target group | It is more common in women | It is common in both genders. |
| Tendency to Relapse | High | Lower |
Treatment Options: BBL or IPL?
It may not be sufficient alone in the treatment of melasma, but it can be supportive in combinations.
Effective results can be obtained on sun spots.
The risk of side effects is lower than with IPL, thanks to the more controlled energy distribution.
It can be used for various pigment problems.
It should be chosen carefully in patients with melasma; if applied incorrectly, it can increase the spots.
It is generally preferred for sunspots.
Special note from Prof. Dr. Nazan Yılmaz: "The difference between BBL and IPL lies in the wavelength range of light delivered to the skin. Therefore, it would not be correct to expect the same effect in every patient."
Chemical Peels and Other Options
Chemical peels can be particularly effective for superficial sunspots. For patients with melasma, they should be applied at lower concentrations and with controlled protocols. In Istanbul dermatology clinics, this method is often combined with BBL or laser treatments.
Contraindication Table
| Treatment method | Inappropriate Situations |
| BBL | Open wounds, active infection, very dark skin types |
| IPL | Melasma-prone skin, recently tanned skin |
| Chemical Peeling | Active eczema, open wounds, very sensitive skin, pregnancy |
Frequently Asked Questions
How to distinguish between melasma and sunspots?
Melasma is usually symmetrical and widespread in the central part of the face, while sunspots can be limited and singular.
Which is safer, BBL or IPL?
It depends on the patient's skin type and the type of blemish. BBL is generally considered safer due to its controlled energy delivery.
Is chemical peeling suitable for everyone?
No. It should be chosen carefully, especially for sensitive skin, and should only be applied under the supervision of a dermatologist.
Special note from Prof. Dr. Nazan Yılmaz : “The treatment plan should be personalized for each patient based on their skin type, blemish type, and lifestyle.”
No single method is suitable for every patient when treating spots. Those seeking dermatological support in Istanbul should have a dermatologist in Nişantaşı evaluate melasma and sunspots, and then choose the most appropriate treatment option, including BBL, IPL, chemical peels, or a combination treatment.
Warning: This content is for informational purposes only; be sure to consult a specialist dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment.
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