Cosmelan

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Cosmelan

Treatment Description

Cosmelan is a professional, intensive depigmentation treatment developed by Mesoestetic, one of the world’s leading authorities in pigmentation control. It is widely regarded as the gold standard for treating stubborn hyperpigmentation, including melasma, a condition known for its resistance to conventional skin-lightening treatments.

The Cosmelan method works by inhibiting tyrosinase, the key enzyme responsible for melanin production within the melanocyte. Its exclusive blend of synergistic active ingredients (including azelaic acid, kojic acid, arbutin, phytic acid, and ascorbic acid) acts on all stages of the hyperpigmentation process simultaneously, delivering a powerful dual action: corrective (removing existing dark spots) and regulating (preventing the formation of new ones).

Cosmelan is effective on all grades of skin ageing and all skin types, including darker and ethnic skin tones, making it an exceptionally inclusive treatment for pigmentation concerns. The method comprises four treatment stages, full compliance with which ensures excellent and lasting results.

What to Expect

  • Stage 1: Intense Depigmentation: The Cosmelan 1 mask is applied in-clinic by a trained professional. It is left on for a prescribed number of hours and then removed at home. This phase delivers the initial intensive corrective depigmenting action.
  • Stage 2: Continuous Depigmentation: From 48 hours after mask removal, Cosmelan 2 cream is applied three times daily (morning, midday, and night), followed by Melan Recovery and Melan 130+ SPF during the day. This phase supplements the corrective action and regulates melanin overproduction within the melanocyte.
  • Stage 3: Control of Hyperpigmentation: Cosmelan 2 is applied morning and night, followed by Melan Recovery and Melan 130+ SPF during the day. This phase treats the root cause of pigmentation, controlling both intra- and intercellular melanin production and preventing repigmentation.
  • Stage 4: Control of Reappearance: Cosmelan 2 is applied at night only, followed by Melan Recovery. During the day, Melan 130+ SPF is applied and reapplied in cases of direct sun exposure. This maintenance phase prolongs results and prevents the reappearance of treated spots and formation of new ones.
  • Results Timeline: Initial improvement in brightness and skin tone is visible within one to two weeks. A marked reduction in dark spots is typically seen at three to four weeks, with full results generally achieved within two to three months of consistent protocol adherence.

Benefits

  • Gold Standard Pigmentation Treatment: Widely recognised as the most effective professional depigmentation system available, with proven efficacy on the most stubborn pigmentation conditions including melasma.
  • Dual Action: Simultaneously corrects existing hyperpigmentation and regulates melanin production to prevent new dark spots from forming.
  • Suitable for All Skin Types: Clinically proven to be safe and effective on all skin tones (including darker, ethnic, Mediterranean, Asian, and Latin complexions) without risk of further irritation or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
  • Comprehensive Active Formula: Contains a powerful combination of proven depigmenting agents (azelaic acid, kojic acid, arbutin, phytic acid, and ascorbic acid) that act on all stages of the melanin production process.
  • Long-Lasting Results: By strictly following the aftercare protocol and maintaining daily sun protection, results can be long-lasting and, in many cases, permanent. One application of the Cosmelan 1 mask is sufficient for most patients.
  • Improves Overall Skin Quality: In addition to reducing pigmentation, Cosmelan improves skin luminosity, smooths texture, reduces the appearance of open pores, and can assist with post-acne scarring.
  • Minimal Downtime: Compared to other intensive depigmentation procedures, Cosmelan offers a manageable recovery with most social downtime occurring in the first three to seven days of the protocol.

Preparation Instructions

  • Prior to Treatment: Discontinue the use of retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, and any active exfoliating skincare products for at least one week before your treatment appointment.
  • Accutane: Do not undergo Cosmelan treatment if you have used Accutane (isotretinoin) within the past six months.
  • Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Cosmelan is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
  • Sun Exposure: Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning in the two weeks before treatment. Existing sun damage or active sun exposure can compromise your results.
  • Skin Sensitivity: Arrive at your appointment with clean skin, free of makeup and skincare products. Inform your practitioner of any known sensitivities or skin conditions prior to treatment.

Aftercare

  • ⚠️ Crucial Rule: Do not pick, scratch, or forcibly remove any peeling skin. Allow the skin to shed naturally. Premature removal of peeling skin can cause scarring or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Sun protection is non-negotiable throughout the entire protocol, reapply Melan 130+ SPF whenever outdoors.
  • Day 1: Redness and puffiness are completely normal following mask removal. Cleanse gently using only the Hydramilk or Emollient Wash, apply Melan Recovery cream to soothe and restore your skin barrier, and finish with Melan 130+ SPF. Shake the Melan 130 bottle well before each use.
  • Day 2: Redness and puffiness may be slightly more pronounced, this is a normal part of the process. Continue the same routine: Hydramilk or Emollient Wash, followed by Melan Recovery, then Melan 130+ SPF. Send your daily skin photographs to your practitioner as instructed.
  • Day 3: Skin peeling and flaking will begin as the skin resurfaces, shedding dead layers to reveal new, healthy skin beneath. This is a positive sign that the treatment is working. Begin applying Cosmelan 2 cream three times daily (morning, midday, and evening) to clean skin, followed by Melan Recovery and Melan 130+ SPF. Remember to mix the Cosmelan 2 thoroughly before each application.
  • Days 4 to 19: Continue applying Cosmelan 2 three times daily (morning, midday, and evening), followed by Melan Recovery and Melan 130+ SPF. If skin is peeling excessively, the Anti-Stress Face Mask may be applied at midday to reduce redness and accelerate the resurfacing process. Continue sending daily skin photographs to your practitioner. The first week is the most intense — stay consistent and trust the process.
  • Day 19 Onwards: At your 20-day skin review, your practitioner will assess your progress and transition you to a reduced application schedule — typically morning and evening only. Continue with Melan Recovery and Melan 130+ SPF daily without exception.
  • Long-Term Maintenance: Once the full Cosmelan method is complete, daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF is strongly recommended as a permanent part of your skincare routine. The tendency to develop dark spots is an ongoing risk, continued sun protection is essential to preserve your results and prevent repigmentation.

FAQ

What types of pigmentation can Cosmelan treat?
Cosmelan is effective on all types of hyperpigmentation, including melasma, chloasma, sun spots, age spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) from acne scars, and general uneven skin tone. It is particularly noted for its effectiveness on melasma, a condition that is notoriously resistant to most other treatments.

How long does the peeling last?
The initial peeling and flaking phase typically begins on day three and lasts between three and seven days, depending on individual skin type and sensitivity. After this phase, the skin becomes progressively smoother and more even in tone as the treatment protocol continues.

When will I see results?
Initial brightening and improvement in skin tone is visible within one to two weeks. A noticeable reduction in dark spots is typically seen by three to four weeks, with full results generally achieved within two to three months of consistent protocol compliance.

Is Cosmelan suitable for darker skin tones?
Yes. Cosmelan is specifically formulated to be safe and effective on all skin types and tones, including darker and ethnic complexions such as Asian, Mediterranean, Latin, and African skin. Unlike many other depigmentation treatments, it does not carry a risk of causing further pigmentation in darker skin when used as directed.

Can results be permanent?
By strictly following the aftercare protocol and maintaining consistent daily sun protection, the results of Cosmelan can be very long-lasting and, for many patients, permanent. The tendency to develop new pigmentation remains an ongoing risk (particularly with sun exposure) which is why continued SPF use and maintenance skincare are essential.

Do I need to avoid the sun during the treatment?
Yes. Sun protection is absolutely essential throughout the entire Cosmelan protocol and beyond. The Melan 130+ SPF must be applied every morning and reapplied during direct sun exposure. Sun exposure during the treatment will compromise results and risk triggering new pigmentation. Avoid prolonged sun exposure for the duration of the protocol and make SPF a permanent daily habit afterwards.

How many sessions of Cosmelan will I need?
For most patients, one application of the Cosmelan 1 mask combined with full compliance with the at-home maintenance protocol is sufficient to achieve significant and lasting results. A follow-up appointment is recommended within four to six weeks of the initial treatment to assess progress and adjust the homecare routine as needed.

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