We are at the Canadian Association for Aesthetic Medicine Conference today, and wanted to share with you some new information.  Dr. Goldman, a dermatologist from San Diego, spoke on Melasma today.  

Melasma is a skin disorder of abnormal and persistent pigmentation, that can be caused by sun exposure, hormonal changes, oral contraceptives, and other factors.  It is one of the most difficult dermatological concerns to treat.  During and after treatment for melasma, it is imperative that you wear a medical grade, broad spectrum sunscreen year round.

But many of our patients ask us if they need to wear sunscreen when they are just going to be in the office all day.  The answer is YES!  Important studies show that it is not only the sun's rays that stimulate melasma to recur or worsen.  The cells that produce pigmentation, known as the melanosomes, can get triggered to malfunction by fluorescent lights - not just UV radiation!

What are your thoughts on wearing sunscreen indoors and outdoors?  Do you do this already?  Will you start? Do you think its overdoing it?  

We can't wait to hear your thoughts!

Dr. Zahra Alidina