Skin discoloration, also known as hyperpigmentation, is a common cosmetic concern that affects many people, especially women. It is characterized by the appearance of dark patches or spots on the skin, usually on the face, hands, or other exposed areas. Skin discoloration can be caused by various factors, such as sun exposure, hormonal changes, genetics, inflammation, or injury. Some of the most common types of skin discoloration are melasma, sun spots, age spots, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Skin discoloration can be challenging to treat, as it often recurs or resists conventional cosmelan treatments, such as creams, lasers, or cosmelan peeling . However, there is a professional depigmentation treatment that claims to address stubborn skin discoloration effectively and safely: Cosmelan.
Science of Cosmelan is a trademarked product of Mesoestetic, a Spanish company that specializes in aesthetic medicine and skincare. Cosmelan is a four-step treatment that consists of a professional mask application at a clinic, followed by a home maintenance regimen with three products: Cosmelan 2, Hydra-Vital Factor K, and Moisturizing Sun Protection
How does Cosmelan work?
Cosmelan works by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, which is responsible for the production of melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin. By blocking the synthesis of melanin, Cosmelan reduces the appearance of skin discoloration and evens out the skin tone. Cosmelan also has a dual action: corrective and regulatory. It not only eliminates the visible discoloration, but also acts on the source of the problem, preventing the overproduction of pigment and its reappearance
Cosmelan contains a combination of active ingredients of chemical and plant origin, such as azelaic acid, retinoic acid, kojic acid, phytic acid, ascorbic acid, and arbutin. These ingredients have different functions, such as exfoliating, brightening, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing.
video by London Premier Laser & Skin Clinic
What are the steps of Cosmelan treatment?
The Cosmelan treatment involves four steps:
• Step 1: Cosmelan 1 mask. This is the most intensive and important step of the treatment. It is performed at a clinic by a qualified professional, who will first cleanse your face and then apply a thick layer of the mask, which has a brown color and a grainy texture. The mask will be left on your face for a specific time, depending on your skin type and sensitivity. The duration can range from 4 to 12 hours. You will be given instructions on how to remove the mask at home with a gentle cleanser and plenty of water.
• Step 2: Cosmelan 2 cream. This is the home maintenance cream that you will need to apply twice a day for the first two weeks, and then once a day for the next 10 months. The cream has a yellow color and a smooth texture. It contains a lower concentration of the active ingredients than the mask, but it is still potent and effective. The cream will help to enhance and prolong the results of the mask, as well as to prevent new discoloration from forming.
• Step 3: Hydra-Vital Factor K cream. This is a moisturizing cream that you will need to apply after the Cosmelan 2 cream, twice a day for the first two weeks, and then once a day for the next 10 months. The cream has a white color and a light texture. It contains ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin K, and vitamin E, which help to hydrate, nourish, and soothe the skin, as well as to reduce redness and inflammation.
• Step 4: Moisturizing Sun Protection SPF 50+. This is a sunscreen that you will need to apply every morning, 30 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every two hours. The sunscreen has a beige color and a fluid texture. It contains ingredients such as titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, and vitamin E, which help to protect the skin from UV rays, free radicals, and environmental damage, as well as to prevent the formation of new discoloration
What are the benefits of Cosmelan treatment?
Cosmelan treatment can offer many benefits for people who want to improve their skin discoloration, such as:
Long-lasting results:
Cosmelan treatment can reduce the appearance of skin discoloration by up to 95% after one session, and the results can last for up to a year or longer, depending on the type and intensity of the treatment. Some studies have shown that Cosmelan treatment can also prevent the recurrence of discoloration by stimulating collagen production and improving skin elasticity.
Minimally invasive:
Cosmelan treatment is a minimally invasive procedure that does not require surgery, anesthesia, incisions, or stitches. It is performed in an office setting and has minimal downtime and recovery. Most people can resume their normal activities within a few days. The side effects are usually mild and temporary, such as peeling, flaking, redness, or itching
Safe and effective:
Cosmelan treatment is a safe and effective procedure that has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for discoloration reduction. Cosmelan treatment has a low risk of complications, such as infection, bleeding, bruising, or scarring. Cosmelan treatment can also improve the skin texture, tone, and smoothness by reducing inflammation and increasing blood circulation
Customizable:
Cosmelan treatment can be customized to suit the individual needs and preferences of each patient. The treatment settings can be adjusted to target different depths and areas of discoloration, as well as to achieve different levels of improvement. Cosmelan treatment can also be combined with other treatments, such as lasers, peels, or fillers, to enhance the results.
What are the drawbacks of Cosmelan treatment?
Cosmelan treatment can also have some drawbacks, such as:
High cost:
Cosmelan treatment can be expensive, depending on the type and number of treatments, the size and location of the treatment area, the experience and reputation of the provider, and the geographic region. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of Cosmelan treatment is about $1,000, which does not include other fees, such as consultation, facility, or aftercare fees
Long-term commitment:
Cosmelan treatment requires a long-term commitment from the patient, as it involves a strict home maintenance regimen with three products for at least 10 months. The patient also needs to avoid sun exposure, heat, and certain medications and cosmetics that can interfere with the treatment or cause adverse reactions.
Possible side effects:
Cosmelan treatment can cause some side effects, such as peeling, flaking, redness, itching, burning, dryness, or sensitivity, especially during the first two weeks of the treatment. These side effects are usually mild and subside within a few days or weeks, but they can be uncomfortable and inconvenient for some people. In rare cases, Cosmelan treatment can also cause allergic reactions, infections, pigment changes, or scarring
Conclusion
Cosmelan treatment is a professional depigmentation treatment that can help you get rid of stubborn and unsightly skin discoloration, such as melasma, sun spots, or age spots. Cosmelan treatment works by inhibiting the enzyme that produces melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin, and by eliminating the visible discoloration and preventing its recurrence. Cosmelan treatment can offer many benefits, such as long-lasting results, minimal invasiveness, safety and effectiveness, and customization. However, Cosmelan treatment can also have some drawbacks, such as high cost, long-term commitment, and possible side effects. If you are interested in Cosmelan treatment, you should consult with a board-certified dermatologist or plastic surgeon who can provide you with the best advice and care. Cosmelan treatment can help you unveil a brighter and more even skin tone that you can be proud of
