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2024.07.07
Is melasma treatment covered by insurance? Dr. Senki Akashi of Bianca Clinic explains.
With deep medical insight cultivated as an internal medicine specialist, I bridge aesthetic surgery, dermatology, and internal medicine. Having spent my childhood in China, I communicate fluently in Japanese, Chinese, English, and Korean. Possessing an international perspective—evidenced by invitations to present at overseas conferences—I actively promote techniques as a Key Opinion Leader (KOL) for GOURI and REJURAN®. My specialty procedures include double eyelid surgery, skin-nurturing boosters, and body hyaluronic acid treatments. My approach leverages the holistic understanding of the body cultivated through internal medicine to guide patients toward natural, healthy beauty.
Hello.
Dr. Hime of BIANCA CLINIC, also known as Senki Akashi.
While we receive many inquiries asking, "I want to remove my age spots!", surprisingly few people specifically request, "I want to remove my melasma."
While many people may be familiar with the term "liver spots," it's possible that not many truly understand what kind of spots they actually are.
Therefore,Individuals whose melasma has worsened due to incorrect care or treatmentThere are also those who are present.
This time, we'll cover the basics of melasma.
Understand melasma correctly and take the first step toward clear, natural skin!
BIANCA Akashi Senki, MD Profile
Spent childhood in China and is trilingual in Chinese, Korean, and Japanese. After graduating from Nagoya University School of Medicine, she specialized in internal medicine with a focus on diabetes and endocrinology, becoming a board-certified internist. Subsequently, she gained experience performing over 5,000 surgical procedures and injectable treatments at a major cosmetic surgery clinic, later serving as director of a clinic in central Tokyo. She specializes in eye area surgeries, particularly double eyelid suture procedures and dark circle treatments. Currently at BIANCA Clinic, he supports patients in achieving a naturally beautiful glow from the inside out, encompassing all aspects of cosmetic surgery, medical aesthetics, and cosmetic dermatology.
<Professional Affiliations and Qualifications>
・Japanese Society of Internal Medicine Board-Certified Internist
・Japanese Diabetes Society
・Japanese Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery
・Japanese Society of Anti-Aging Medicine
<Check out more information about Dr. Akashi Senki's Aesthetic Medicine here>
Dr. Akashi Senki's Instagram account isHere
The official Instagram account for BIANCA isHere
The official YouTube account for BIANCA isHere
What kind of spots are liver spots?

Liver spots are,Pale brown spots appearing symmetrically on both sidesis.
This condition occurs when melanocytes (pigment cells) are stimulated to produce excessive melanin, characterized by a diffuse, hazy appearance across the entire face.
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Not congenital, but acquired
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Often appears symmetrically on both sides of the forehead, cheeks, temples, and around the mouth
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Brown to grayish brown, with indistinct edges
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It is less likely to appear on the sides of the nose (nostrils) or around the eyes.
Liver spots may appear on their own, but they are often mixed with senile lentigines or ADM (Acquired Dermal Melanocytosis), requiring careful diagnosis.
Is melasma treatment covered by insurance?
One of the questions we often receive is, "Is melasma treatment covered by insurance?"
To cut to the chase,As a general rule, melasma treatment is not covered by insurance (private treatment).
Liver spot treatment is classified as a "cosmetic procedure," so all treatments—including laser therapy, topical medications, supplements, and injectable treatments—are out-of-pocket expenses.
However, since treatment under private medical care is not subject to insurance restrictions,Laser irradiation with fine output adjustmentWell,The advantage of being able to use highly effective topical whitening agents。
For those seeking greater effectiveness or longer-lasting results, private medical care is likely to be more satisfying.
Causes of Melasma Worsening
The three main factors that worsen melasma are as follows:
- Ultraviolet rays: Lead to excessive melanin production
- Friction and irritation: Be careful not to rub too hard when cleansing or washing your face!
- Fluctuations in female hormones: pregnancy, menopause, birth control pill use
When these factors overlap, inflammation becomes chronic, leading to the darkening of melasma.
First and foremost, adopting lifestyle habits that reduce irritation is the first step in treating melasma.
Basic Steps for Melasma Treatment

Here is an explanation of the actual liver spot treatment process performed at Bianca Clinic.
① Oral medication
One treatment for melasma isOral tranexamic acidis.
It blocks the action of plasmin, which promotes melanin production, thereby preventing the worsening of melasma.
Furthermore Vitamins C and EBy using them together, it suppresses oxidative stress and reduces skin damage.
② Topical Therapy
Hydroquinone and TretinoinWe provide topical treatments that primarily promote the reduction and elimination of melanin.
Topical treatments can cause irritation, so it is important to use them under a doctor's supervision.
③ Device Therapy
At Bianca Clinic,Pico Toning Mesona J Potenza (Liver Spot Mode) We combine various treatments to propose a personalized treatment plan tailored to each individual's skin.
Lasers that are strong against melasma are strictly prohibited! However,Low-output pico toningIn that case, it can gently target melanin.
Laser toning is also effective for improving dullness and uneven skin tone.
Treatment Guidelines and Progress
Liver spotsImprovement does not occur after just one session. Continuous treatment for approximately 3 to 6 months is required.is required.
It gradually evens out skin tone while regulating skin turnover.
The key to success is to avoid rushing or panicking, and instead consistently apply the right care.
Summary: The key to treating melasma is to stay calm and approach it with the right knowledge.
Liver spots are not a “quick-fix treatment.”
However, with proper diagnosis and persistent care, you can achieve bright, translucent skin.
At Bianca Clinic,Combining oral medications, topical treatments, and devices for personalized, tailored therapyis being conducted.
Don't rush, don't panic, and be stubbornly persistent.
That's the fastest way to overcome melasma!
▼Over 300,000 cases treated! Click here for Dr. Manami's explanation of age spots and melasma
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