Dr. Tahl N. Humes owns and serves as medical director to Vitahl Medical Aesthetics in Denver, Colorado. She graduated with a BS from Indiana University, completed Medical School at Touro University in California, and Residency at Saint Joseph Hospital in Denver. She is a National Laser Trainer and National Spokesperson for Cutera® Lasers. Dr. Humes also trains physicians, RNs, and PAs from across the nation in advanced injection techniques of BOTOX® and advanced dermal fillers, including Juvederm, Restylane, Radiesse, and Sculptra. Dr. Humes has performed thousands of aesthetic treatments with lasers and injectables. She was invited by Allergan to participate in the Juvederm Experience Trials prior to the product’s release to the general public. In addition, Dr. Humes is known for her expertise in laser medicine. Dr. Humes and Vitahl are known for their cutting edge laser treatments, such as Pearl and Titan. She has been interviewed for her cosmetic medical expertise by news affiliates ABC, CBS, and NBC, and has served on expert panels for Cutera® Lasers at national presentations.

MANAGING MELASMA

If you have Melasma, also known as the "pregnancy mask," you understand the difficulty of managing and eliminating this chronic skin condition. Melsama appears as dark, irregular skin discolorations, usually on the upper cheek, nose, lip, upper lip or forehead. You don't have to be pregnant to get Melasma, but hormones do play a role. Once you have Melasma, it not only flares from the sun, but also from heat. It can be a reoccurring condition for years to come.

At VITAHL, we tackle Melasma with several combined treatments, including topical creams and peels. For some patients, we also use lasers to treat Melasma. Unfortunately, there are no treatments that can cure Melasma, so our goal is to control it as best we can. For some, being on a home care regime with iS Clinical White Lightening or a prescription combination of Hydroquinone and Retin-A will suffice, but for many patients, we need to get more aggressive. At this point, we recommend the Melanage peel, Jessner peels or lasers. Of these, our treatment of choice is Melange, because it can be used on all skin types. Melanage is a revolutionary, non-invasive treatment that has been proven to improve Melasma and sun damage while improving skin texture. The treatment begins in the office, and is supplemented by comprehensive home care products that amplify and extend the peel benefits. We are currently in the process of evaluating new treatments for Melasma. As we continue to see results, we will pass on the information.

If you have or think you may have Melasma, the first step is to call for a complimentary consultation. With perseverance and patience, your Melasma can be improved. Just remember that the most critical step in managing your Melasma is to strictly avoid sunlight and heat, because sun and heat only make this skin condition worsen. If you're going outside, wear your hat and put on your sunscreen!