How does it work?
The Dermamelan (Amelan) treatment consists of a mask/ face pack, which is applied at the clinic, and you are given some at home products to use. Dermamelan affects the melanogenesis process which means that that formation of the pigment (melanin) is inhibited. The pigment is triggered by a basic enzyme, tyrosinase, and so several of the key ingredients including Kojic Acid, Phytic Acid, Ascorbic Acid, Arbutine, Titanium Dioxide, Retinyl Palmitate, act by blocking this enzyme.
You will be advised on how to use the at home products and also what precautions should be taken to guard against sun exposure when outdoors.
How long do I leave the mask on for?
Your nurse will advise how long the mask should be left on but this will be in the range of 4 to 12 hours so you need to plan your visit so that you can go straight home with the mask on. When the mask has been on long enough you must wash it off very gently using cold water and immediately apply the Hydra-Vital Factor K moisturising cream given to you. During daylight hours you must also use the sunscreen provided.
Your nurse will arrange an appointment for you to call back into the clinic for a brief visual assessment appriximately 48 hours after treatment. At this time you will be given the Dermamelan Home Treatment Cream (originally known as Amelan M at home maintenance cream), and instructions on how to use it. We will be in regular contact with you to monitor progress and make adjustments to the 'at home' treatment control (Dermamelan Home Treatment Cream, Hydra-Vital Factor K and sunscreen).
Will I need to take time off after the treatment, and how will I feel?
On the day of the treatment you will need to go straight home as you will need to wear the mask for several hours and will want to be at home when you wash it off.
During the first two days of treatment the skin may turn red, especially in lighter skin types. From time to time you may also experience an itching feeling and some burning or tightness on the face. To relieve this discomfort you will be advised to apply the Hydra-Vital factor K cream.
Some flaking will occur around the second and third days. It is advisable to apply the Hydra-Vital factor K cream, repeating every 2 hours on the day when the flaking is most intense.
After the third and fourth days, the skin begins to present a healthy and luminous aspect. The pigmenta suppression starts immediately and the marks will begin to fade through the natural skin renewal process though this may take from between 1 to 3 months depending on the depth of the pigment.
How many treatments will I need and for how long will I be using the at home products?
The face mask is applied only once. At home application of Dermamelan Home Maintenance Cream (Amelan M cream) will continue for 3 months, typically, to prevent pigmentation reappearing. The daily use of Moisturising Sunscreen is essential.
What does it cost?
Your consultation, in line with SkinGenesis policy, is free of charge.
The treatment price (face only) is 750 and includes an initial supply of Dermamelan Home Maintenance Cream (Amelan M), Hydra-Vital factor K and Moisturising Sunscreen for use by the client at home (obligatory).
Are there any reasons why you might not be able to treat me?
You must obtain a written diagnosis from your GP or Dermatologist that you have the skin condition melasma, chloasma or lentigo. Please ask for our pro-forma letter to take to your doctor. The treatment cannot go ahead without this written diagnosis.
The treatment cannot be carried out if the affected area has been treated with glycolic acid within the previous week.
Are there any risks?
Some clients will find the treatment uncomfortable, especially during the recovery period.
There are no long-term adverse side effects.
