As we age, our skin begins to show signs of sun damage. Dark blemishes such as sun spots or age spots develop, and our skin loses its tone, elasticity and firmness. Pigmented lesions occur as a result of genetic predisposition and unprotected sun exposure. An understanding of body chemistry and advances in cosmetic dermatology have made a novel treatment available for removing benign pigmented lesions, age spots, sun spots and other dark blemishes.

The Cosmelan depigmentation treatment has a very high margin of safety. It is good for those who have areas of the skin that have become darkened, especially by the sun. An example of a manageable condition would be melasma. Melasma is a common condition that occurs in men and women that results in dark skin discoloration. It appears in sun-exposed areas such as the face and can affect anyone, though young women with brownish skin tones appear to be at greater risk. Changes in the body’s hormonal balance can affect the onset of melasma. We often see this happen in women after they get pregnant or take hormones such as estrogen or progesterone.

Cosmelan works by inhibiting tyrosinase, a basic enzyme used by the body to form melanin. Melanin is the pigment that is produced by cells in the skin known as melanocytes. Cosmelan contains several substances that work in concert to block tyrosinase. Active ingredients include Azelaic acid, Phytic acid, Kojic acid, Vitamin C, and Arbutin. Interestingly, Azelaic acid has been used to treat mild to moderate acne by inhibiting the growth of skin bacteria that can cause acne. Although not intended as a treatment for acne, we have noticed that several patients treated with Cosmelan have also cleared their acne blemishes.

Cosmelan depigmentation treatments offer many advantages compared with other types of depigmentation products currently available on the market:

• High margin of safety
• Can be used with ALL skin types (Fitzpatrick I-VI) and particularly useful in those who have darker skin
• Light peeling effect rejuvenates the skin
• No TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid)
• Can be used all year round
• Depigmentation is rapid

The Cosmelan depigmentation treatment process consists of at least two office treatments spaced one month apart and a home care regimen. Just one week after starting the Cosmelan, a noticeable improvement in skin color and texture should be observed!