What is the Melanage Peel Treatment?

Do you have uneven pigment, deep pigment issues or melasma? The Melanage Peel Treatment is a Hydroquinone and Retinoid masque for the treatment of hyperpigmentation or pigmented blemishes on the skin. It is a superficial peel designed to improve the texture and appearance of hyperpigmented skin which involves a masque and an at-home regimen. This is a replacement thereapy for Cosmelan which was discontinued in 2007.

Who can be treated?

This treatment is available to people of all ages and skin types who suffer from unwanted hyperpigmentation.  Melanage Peel Treatment should NOT be used on patients with active cold sores or warts, skin with open wounds, sunburn, excessively sensitive skin, dermatitis or inflammatory rosacea in the area to be treated.  Inform Dr. Wang if you have a history of herpes simplex.  Patients who have a history of allergic skin reactions or rashes, or may be sensitive to any of the components of this treatment should also not be treated.  It is not recommended for anyone who has taken Accutane within the past year, or received chemotherapy or radiation therapy.  The Melanage Peel Treatment should not be administered to pregnant or breastfeeding women.

How does it work?

Melanage 1 Masque is applied during office visit where the nurse compounds the peel freshly at time of dispensing to ensure its potency and reliability.  The masque is removed by patient after required length of time according to their skin type.  Patients leave office with masque on their face.   Patients are responsible for adhering to an easy-to-follow, but strict, at-home regimen involving the application of several Melanage products for one week following masque application.

What areas can be treated?

All skin areas can be treated.

How many treatments will I need?

Only one treatment is initially recommended but it can be repeated three to four months following first treatment if necessary.

What will I experience during treatment?

The application of Melanage 1 Masque takes approximately one hour.  A uniform layer of Melanage is applied by the nurse.  No discomfort is experienced and patients describe procedure as soothing and relaxing.  It is recommended to ensure hair is tied back away from face to avoid getting product in it.  The masque will remain on face for 5 to 10 hours according to the patient's skin type.  The rest of your treatment will continue at home and will involve weekly follow up visits with the nurse for one month.

What will I experience after treatment?

• Your skin may have a light yellow tinge immediately after removal of the masque.  This is temporary and will fade in a few hours.
• Your skin may be more red than usual after removal of the masque and for the next seven days you apply the Vitamin A peel pads. It is recommended to avoid strenuous exercise during this time.
• Approximately 48 hours after the treatment your skin will start to peel which will generally last 2-5 days.
• Patients must follow the at-home regimen for optimal results.  They will be provided with a product kit containing an Anti-Redness Foaming Cleanser, Anti-Redness Soothing Crème, Sensitive Skin Sunscreen, Vitamin A pads, and Melanage 2 Crème.

What results can I expect?

Results will vary but generally patients will see a significant improvement of the appearance of pigmented areas.  Dark spots will lighten and skin texture and tone will improve.  Although most patients experience peeling of their skin, not every patient will notice this.  If you do not notice actual peeling, please know that you are still receiving all the benefits of the Melanage Peel Treatment, such as: stimulation of collagen production, improvement of skin tone and texture, and diminishment of fine lines and pigmentation.  Proper skin evaluation by your doctor prior to your peel is important and will help predict the outcome of your peel.

How much does the treatment cost?

The treatment cost is $650 and includes the inoffice treatment of the vitamin A prep, masque by our nurse. This is left on for at least 4 hours depending on skin type. You also recieve several products to take home. These include and anti-redness balm, melanage 2 with HQ to apply each night for continued at home treatment and a high quality zinc oxide suncreen. These products last for approximately 2 months.