October 19, 2022
Melasma & Cyspera
Quick answer: Melasma is a common pigmentation condition — more frequent in women — often triggered by hormonal changes such as pregnancy or birth control. At Allure Infinite Beauty, the recommended approach avoids heat-based treatments like lasers, focusing instead on chemical peels, microneedling, HydraFacials, and at-home pigment-controlling products. Allure is the first in Arizona to offer Cyspera, a 3-step at-home treatment that may begin visibly reducing pigment within a few weeks.
Melasma is a very common skin condition that effects about 200,00 people yearly. Women mostly suffer from melasma but 10% of men can have melasma as well. Although we aren’t 100% sure what causes melasma, we do know that most cases are caused during pregnancy, breastfeeding or while taking birth control. A spike of estrogen is the main cause of the over production of pigment, commonly referred to as “pregnancy mask”
There are many treatments that are safe to perform on melasma, to help control the pigment but also to help treat other skin issues such as acne or scarring. Avoiding “heat” based treatments such as lasers is always a safe practice. We know heat and light can be a trigger for melasma. Treating the skin with chemical peels, microneedling, HydraFacials and active at home products that control pigment are all safe options!
Treating pigment, no matter the cause ie: sun exposure, post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, age spots and melasma can be tricky and most be a low and slow approach. Monthly in-office treatments paired with a at-home skin regimen is the fastest and most effective way to treat.
At Allure Infinite Beauty we are always striving to offer the state-of-the-art treatments and most efficacious products to offer our guests. Since some of our very own staff members suffer from Melasma we are always on the hunt for the best options! We truly believe we found the Holy Grail of pigment correcting products, which is why we ae the first in Arizona to offer Cyspera.
Cyspera is a 3-step at-home treatment, that’s quick and easy to use, but more importantly it works beautifully on piment QUICKLY! Not only will you start to see a diminishing of your pigment within a few weeks but you will start to see hydrated, youthful glowing skin, and who doesn’t love that???
Disclaimer: Melasma is a skin condition with no cure. So, you will always be “controlling” your melasma. Everyone may have a different trigger ex:heat, alcohol, stress, sun exposure, hormone replacements are a few common triggers. You will need to find yours; you will see a flair up of pigment that may start to relax after a few days or weeks. Once you know your trigger Melasma is easier to control, avoid your triggers, avoid your flair ups. Cyspera will help control flair ups, so when and if they do happen, they won’t be as bad or last as long as they have in the past.
So how does it work? Cyspera Is applied to “dirty” skin, in other words don’t wash your face before using. Let step one sit for 15 minutes, wash off with step 2 neutralizer, then add step 3 and any other serums you already have in your routine. Finish with a physical sunscreen and that’s it! For best results use daily for 16 weeks, or when desired results are achieved, then you will use 1-3 times a week to maintain results and to keep flair ups at bay!
Want more info on how to control your Melasma or if Cyspera is right for you? Call today to book a detailed consultation with one of our skin care experts!
Results
The content on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual results vary. All procedures and treatments at Allure Infinite Beauty are performed by or under the supervision of licensed medical professionals. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any aesthetic or wellness treatment to determine whether it is appropriate for your individual needs and health history.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cyspera and Cysteamine for Melasma
What is Cyspera and how does it treat melasma?
Cyspera is a prescription topical treatment containing cysteamine, an antioxidant compound that works by inhibiting melanin synthesis through multiple biochemical pathways — blocking tyrosinase enzyme activity, scavenging peroxidase enzymes involved in pigment formation, and reducing the conversion of dopachrome to DHICA (a darker melanin precursor). Cysteamine is a naturally occurring compound found in human cells, which contributes to its favorable tolerability profile. Clinical studies have shown cysteamine to be comparable in efficacy to hydroquinone — the long-standing gold standard for melasma — with a better safety profile for long-term use.
How does Cyspera differ from traditional hydroquinone treatment?
Hydroquinone has been the standard of care for melasma for decades and remains highly effective, but it carries limitations for long-term use: it can cause paradoxical darkening (ochronosis) with prolonged use and must be used in cycles. Cyspera offers comparable brightening efficacy with a different mechanism that does not carry the same long-term use concerns, making it better suited for clients who need extended maintenance treatment. Cyspera is applied once daily for sixteen to seventeen weeks rather than twice daily like most hydroquinone formulations, which some clients find more manageable.
Is Cyspera suitable for all skin types including darker skin tones?
Yes — Cyspera’s mechanism is well-tolerated across all Fitzpatrick skin types, including darker skin tones (Types IV–VI) that require extra caution with some depigmenting agents. Certain laser treatments and stronger acid peels carry higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones; topical cysteamine does not carry the same concern. For clients with darker skin tones who struggle with melasma, Cyspera combined with strict sun protection and appropriate in-office treatments represents a well-tolerated comprehensive approach.
What should I expect during Cyspera treatment?
Cyspera is applied to the face once daily, left on for fifteen minutes, then rinsed thoroughly. The initial weeks of treatment may show subtle changes; most clients begin seeing noticeable brightening after eight to twelve weeks of consistent daily use. A full treatment course is approximately sixteen weeks, followed by reassessment. The product has a slight sulfur-like odor during the fifteen-minute application window — this is normal and dissipates after rinsing. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 50 mineral sunscreen is mandatory throughout treatment and maintenance, as any sun exposure during treatment can counteract progress.
Can Cyspera be used alongside other skincare treatments?
Cyspera can be incorporated into a comprehensive melasma management plan that includes in-office treatments and other topical actives. It is typically used in the evening alongside daily morning vitamin C and SPF. It can be combined with in-office chemical peels, microneedling, and certain laser treatments under professional guidance. Your clinician at Allure Infinite Beauty will develop a sequenced plan that coordinates Cyspera with any in-office treatments and other topical actives to avoid conflicts and maximize the combined efficacy of the regimen.
Understanding and Managing Melasma: Your Questions Answered
Melasma is one of the most nuanced skin conditions we treat at Allure Infinite Beauty — effective management requires a thoughtful combination of professional care, at-home treatment, and lifestyle adjustments. The post above introduces Cyspera and covers the basics of melasma triggers. Here we go deeper on the questions clients most frequently ask during consultations.
Why is melasma so difficult to treat compared to other types of hyperpigmentation?
Most hyperpigmentation responds predictably to the right combination of exfoliation, brightening ingredients, and sun protection. Melasma is different because it is driven by hormonal activity and has a pattern of recurring after treatment, especially when triggers like UV exposure or hormonal fluctuations continue. The melanocytes producing pigment in melasma-affected skin are highly reactive, meaning even a small trigger can cause a flare-up after the skin appears to have cleared. Managing melasma is an ongoing process of control rather than a one-time fix.
What is the safest in-office treatment option for melasma?
Because heat and light can trigger or worsen melasma, we typically recommend heat-free treatment modalities as the safest first-line options. Chemical peels, HydraFacial, and microneedling are all commonly used for melasma with appropriate product selection and careful technique. These treatments help accelerate cell turnover and deliver brightening actives deeper into the skin without the risk of heat-related flares. The best approach for any individual client depends on their skin type, severity of melasma, and other concurrent skin concerns. We strongly recommend a consultation before beginning any treatment protocol.
Can I still get professional treatments if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
This is an important question and one that should always involve your OB-GYN or healthcare provider in addition to your esthetician. Many of the active ingredients used in pigment-correcting treatments — including certain chemical exfoliants and brightening agents — are not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, some gentle professional treatments may still be appropriate depending on what your provider recommends. Safety is always our priority, and we will never recommend a treatment that is not appropriate for your current health status.
How does sun protection specifically affect melasma management?
SPF is arguably the single most important step in any melasma management plan — more important than any product or treatment. Ultraviolet light is a primary trigger for melanin overproduction in melasma-prone skin, and even brief unprotected exposure can cause a significant flare that undoes weeks of treatment progress. We recommend a broad-spectrum physical or mineral SPF used every morning without exception, reapplied during extended outdoor exposure. Many clients in Arizona are surprised to learn that UV rays penetrate car windows and can trigger melasma on their daily commute.
How soon might I notice results using Cyspera?
Many clients who use Cyspera consistently as directed begin to notice improvement in pigmentation within the first few weeks of use. A 16-week daily protocol is recommended for optimal results, after which a maintenance schedule helps prevent future flare-ups. Individual results vary based on skin type, severity of melasma, consistency of use, and how well triggers are managed during the treatment period. Our team is available to answer questions throughout your Cyspera journey and adjust your protocol if needed.
Managing melasma is a long-term commitment, and the right partner makes all the difference. Contact Allure Infinite Beauty in Mesa to book a detailed melasma consultation with one of our licensed skincare experts, or schedule your appointment online. Our team will assess your skin and build a personalized treatment plan addressing your unique triggers and goals.