Photoderm M by Bioderma: Melasma and Pigmentation Treatment

Understanding Melasma and Skin Pigmentation

Melasma, also known as chloasma, is a common skin condition characterized by darkened patches on the skin. It typically occurs symmetrically on both sides of the face in areas like the cheeks, upper lip, chin, and forehead that are most often exposed to the sun.

Melasma is thought to be triggered by everyday exposures like sunlight and hormone fluctuations. It tends to run in families and occurs more often in women, especially pregnant women or those taking birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy.

What Causes Melasma?

The leading cause of melasma is exposure to sunlight, particularly the ultraviolet (UV) rays. Hormone changes during pregnancy or with contraceptive use can also bring on melasma in predisposed individuals. Genetics and thyroid disease are other factors that can increase risk.

These triggers stimulate the melanocytes, which are the cells that produce pigment or melanin, in the surface skin layers. This overproduction of melanin leads to the darkened, mottled discolorations of melasma.

Treating Melasma

While melasma can be stubborn to treat, using a comprehensive approach can help manage this condition. Protecting your skin from further sun damage with sunscreen, hats, and shade is essential. Certain topical medications like hydroquinone, azelaic acid, kojic acid, and retinoids can help lighten the pigmented areas over time.

In-office procedures like chemical peels and microneedling can provide additional improvement when combined with topical treatments. However, melasma often recurs after initial clearing, requiring continued maintenance therapy.

Introducing Photoderm M from Bioderma

Bioderma is a French skincare company renowned for their sensitive skin-friendly products. One of their leading treatment lines is Photoderm, which offers sun protection tailored for different skin needs. Within this collection, the Photoderm M range specifically targets melasma and related pigmentary concerns.

Key Features of Photoderm M

Photoderm M consists of a day cream with SPF 40 protection and a dedicated night cream for use together as a system. Some of the standout features include:

• Cellular Bioprotection Complex - Provides antioxidant defense against skin-aging free radicals from UV and infrared radiation exposure.
• Vitamin PP - Helps control melanin overproduction and inhibit tyrosinase enzyme activity to prevent discoloration.
• Specially-coated pigments - Reflects light off the skin to conceal dark spots and even skin tone.
• Night Detox Complex - Works overnight to fade pigmentation and support healthy cell renewal.

Benefits for Melasma Management

In multiple studies, the Photoderm M system has been clinically demonstrated to improve multiple features of melasma and skin discoloration when used for at least 3 months, including:

• Reduced intensity of pigmented spots
• Decreased size/spread of hyperpigmented areas
• More even and luminous skin tone
• Lightened appearance of dark circles under the eyes

The day cream provides necessary SPF protection along with skin tone-enhancing optical correctors for immediate brightening. Meanwhile, the night cream contains the optimal concentrations of depigmenting actives to continually fade melasma spots over time with regular use.

How to Use Photoderm M for Melasma

Using Photoderm M involves simply incorporating the two specialized creams into your usual morning and evening skincare routines:

Morning:

1. Cleanse face as normal and pat dry
2. Apply pea-sized amount of Photoderm M Age Spot Corrector SPF 40 all over face
3. Gently smooth over entire face including under eyes, avoiding lashlines

Night:

1. Cleanse face to remove makeup/sunscreen from day
2. After toning and serum steps, dispense a pearl-size amount of Photoderm M Age Spot Fader Night Cream onto fingertips
3. Gently massage cream all over face and under eyes

Make sure to use both products consistently, repeating daily over at least 12 weeks for optimal anti-melasma and skin tone-evening action. Results continue to improve with ongoing use as part of your regular skincare routine.

Who is Photoderm M Suitable For?

The entire Photoderm collection was formulated for sensitive skin. The Photoderm M range has undergone stringent dermatological control testing to minimize risks of irritation, even with regular application. The day and night creams are suitable for all skin types.

This melasma system is particularly beneficial for those with a history of hormonal pigmentary issues like:

• Pregnancy mask/chloasma
• Birth control pill-related discoloration
• Estrogen dominance skin changes

By incorporating melanin-targeting vitamins like niacinamide along with brightening botanicals and optical correctors, Photoderm M also helps those dealing with general facial hyperpigmentation and uneven tone rather than defined dark spot formations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long until I see results from using Photoderm M?

Most users begin noticing initial improvements in skin clarity, tone, and dark spot intensity after 6-8 weeks of consistent use. However, the full depigmenting action becomes most visible after 12+ weeks as the active ingredients have time to work against established melasma spots.

Can I use other skincare products with Photoderm M?

Yes, Photoderm M is compatible with most other skincare steps like toners, serums and moisturizers. Just allow each product to fully absorb before layering on the next. Avoid using other leave-on creams containing potentially irritating depigmenting agents like hydroquinone alongside the night cream due to risks of sensitivity.

Does Photoderm M contain hydroquinone?

No, unlike many prescription dark spot creams, Photoderm M does NOT contain hydroquinone. Instead, it relies on a botanical complex centered around Vitamin PP (niacinamide) to control melanin safely and gradually over time.

FAQs

Is Photoderm M safe to use during pregnancy?

Yes, the ingredients in both the day and night creams have been assessed for safety during pregnancy. However, you should always consult your doctor before using any new topical products when pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can Photoderm M be used to maintain results after professional melasma treatment?

Yes, many dermatologists recommend continuing use of Photoderm M after in-office laser, peel, or infusion treatments for melasma. This helps prolong the clearance achieved while controlling future melanin production.

Does the night cream contain retinol or acid exfoliants?

No, unlike many pigment-fading night creams, Photoderm M does not contain potentially irritating ingredients like retinoids or AHAs/BHAs. Instead, it relies on a combination of niacinamide, trifouet rose extract and a vitamin C derivative for its depotigmenting action.

Can Photoderm M be used to treat dark elbows and knees?

The Night Spot Fader Cream is safe for use on the body and may help minimize pigmented areas on the elbows, knees, and joints when applied regularly. Make sure to follow with SPF protection during sun exposure.