Xanthelasma is a skin condition that causes yellowish, raised plaques to appear around the eyes. While generally harmless, Xanthelasma can be cosmetically distressing and may indicate underlying health concerns, such as high cholesterol. This condition often affects the delicate skin around the eyelids, making it a particularly noticeable cosmetic issue.
At Skin Revision, we provide an advanced treatment to reduce the appearance of Xanthelasma and restore smooth, healthy skin. In this article, here we’ll cover what Xanthelasma is, its causes, and the non-invasive treatment available to manage and treat this condition.
What Is Xanthelasma?
Xanthelasma refers to yellowish deposits of fat that build up beneath the skin, typically around the upper and lower eyelids. These deposits appear as small, soft, flat, or slightly raised plaques. Xanthelasma is considered a type of xanthoma, which is a condition where fatty growths form in certain areas of the skin due to an accumulation of cholesterol or other lipids.
While Xanthelasma itself is not harmful or painful, it can affect the appearance of the skin around the eyes, leading individuals to seek treatment for cosmetic reasons. In some cases, Xanthelasma may also signal underlying health concerns, such as high cholesterol or lipid imbalances.
What Causes Xanthelasma?
Xanthelasma is caused by a build-up of cholesterol-rich deposits in the skin, but the specific reason these deposits form, as mentioned above, is often linked to underlying health conditions or lifestyle factors. Key contributors to Xanthelasma include:
- High Cholesterol
One of the most common causes of Xanthelasma is elevated cholesterol levels, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often referred to as “bad cholesterol.” When cholesterol levels are too high, fatty deposits can accumulate in different parts of the body, including the skin around the eyes.
- Genetics
Genetics play a significant role in whether someone will develop Xanthelasma. Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to lipid disorders, even if their cholesterol levels are within a normal range. In these cases, Xanthelasma may develop regardless of lifestyle factors.
- Lipid Disorders
In some cases, Xanthelasma may be linked to lipid disorders, such as familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic condition that results in very high cholesterol levels. Lipid imbalances, including increased levels of triglycerides, can also contribute to the formation of Xanthelasma.
- Age and Gender
Xanthelasma most commonly appears in middle-aged or older adults, and it tends to affect women more often than men. While it can occur in younger individuals, it is more likely to develop as people age, especially if they have other risk factors like high cholesterol.
- Health Conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, and liver disease, can increase the likelihood of developing Xanthelasma. These conditions can affect cholesterol metabolism or cause lipid imbalances, leading to the formation of fatty deposits in the skin.
Symptoms of Xanthelasma
The most noticeable symptom of Xanthelasma is the presence of yellowish or whitish plaques on the skin around the eyes. These plaques are typically:
- Flat or slightly raised: Xanthelasma lesions are usually soft and may feel slightly elevated from the surface of the skin.
- Yellowish in colour: The yellow colour is due to the presence of cholesterol and other lipids in the plaques.
- Located around the eyes: Xanthelasma most commonly appears on the upper or lower eyelids, but it can occasionally form in other areas around the eyes.
- Non-painful: Xanthelasma is typically painless and does not cause itching, irritation, or other discomfort. However, its appearance can be cosmetically concerning for many individuals.
Xanthelasma typically does not affect vision or cause physical discomfort. However, it can grow larger over time, and in some cases, individuals may develop multiple plaques around both eyes.
Effective Treatments for Xanthelasma
While Xanthelasma is harmless from a medical standpoint, many people choose to have it treated for cosmetic reasons. At Skin Revision we offer CryoPen, an advanced, non-invasive treatment to reduce the appearance of Xanthelasma, improving skin texture and restoring a more even-toned complexion.
What is CryoPen Treatment?
CryoPen treatment is a form of cryotherapy that uses extreme cold to remove unwanted skin lesions. The CryoPen device delivers a precise, high-pressure jet of nitrous oxide (N2O) directly to the targeted area, freezing and destroying the abnormal tissue. This method is both safe and effective, making it a popular choice for treating a variety of skin conditions.
How Does CryoPen Treatment Work?
The CryoPen works by utilising the principles of cryotherapy, which involves the application of extreme cold to freeze and destroy unwanted tissue. Here’s a step-by-step overview of how the CryoPen treatment process works:
- Consultation and Assessment: The first step involves a thorough consultation with a skincare professional at Skin Revision. During this consultation, the practitioner will assess the skin condition and determine if CryoPen treatment is the appropriate solution.
- Preparation: Before the treatment begins, the area is cleaned and prepped. This ensures that the CryoPen device can be applied accurately and effectively.
- Application of CryoPen: The CryoPen device is then used to deliver a controlled and precise jet of nitrous oxide to the targeted area. The high-pressure jet instantly freezes the target, causing the cells to crystallise and eventually die.
- Post-Treatment Care: After the treatment, the area may appear white and then red as it thaws. Over the next few days, the frozen lesion will form a scab and eventually fall off, revealing healthy new skin beneath.
Benefits of CryoPen Treatment
CryoPen treatment offers numerous benefits, making it a preferred choice for many patients seeking to remove unwanted skin lesions. Some of the key benefits include:
- Precision The CryoPen device allows for highly precise targeting of the area, ensuring that only the abnormal tissue is affected while the surrounding healthy skin remains intact.
- Minimal Discomfort CryoPen treatment is minimally invasive and generally well-tolerated by patients. The freezing process may cause a slight stinging sensation, but it is typically brief and manageable.
- Quick Procedure CryoPen treatment is a quick procedure that can often be completed in a single session. Depending on the size of the treatment area, the process can take just a few minutes.
- No Downtime One of the significant advantages of CryoPen treatment is that there is no downtime required. Patients can return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure.
- Effective Results CryoPen treatment is highly effective in removing various skin lesions. Most patients see noticeable improvement within a few days to weeks after the treatment.
- Low Risk of Scarring Because CryoPen treatment is precise and non-invasive, there is a low risk of scarring. The treated area typically heals well, with minimal risk of infection or complications.
- Versatility CryoPen treatment can be used on a wide range of skin conditions, making it a versatile option for patients with multiple types of lesions.
- Safe for All Skin Types CryoPen treatment is safe for all skin types and can be used on both adults and children, making it a suitable option for patients of all ages.
Preparing for CryoPen Treatment
Before undergoing CryoPen treatment, it is essential to have a consultation with a qualified skincare professional at Skin Revision. During this consultation, the practitioner will:
- Assess the skin condition and determine if CryoPen treatment is appropriate.
- Discuss the treatment process and what to expect during and after the procedure.
- Provide pre-treatment instructions, such as avoiding sun exposure and certain skincare products.
Aftercare and Recovery
Following CryoPen treatment, it is important to follow the aftercare instructions provided by your skincare professional to ensure optimal healing and results. Some general aftercare tips include:
- Keep the Area Clean: Gently clean the treated area with mild soap and water to prevent infection.
- Avoid Picking or Scratching: Allow the treated lesion to heal naturally and avoid picking or scratching at the scab.
- Protect from Sun Exposure: Use sunscreen and avoid direct sun exposure to prevent hyperpigmentation and promote healing.
- Follow Up: Attend any follow-up appointments as recommended to monitor the healing process and address any concerns.
CryoPen treatment is an innovative and effective solution for removing various skin lesions. At Skin Revision, we are dedicated to providing our patients with the best possible care and treatments to improve their skin health and confidence.
Lifestyle Changes and Medical Management
In some cases, treating the underlying cause of Xanthelasma, such as high cholesterol or a lipid disorder, can help prevent the formation of new plaques or slow the progression of existing ones. Lifestyle changes—such as adopting a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing cholesterol levels—can help reduce the risk of Xanthelasma returning after treatment.
If you have high cholesterol or a related condition, working with your healthcare provider to manage your lipid levels through diet, exercise, and possibly medication is crucial. This medical management can complement cosmetic treatments for Xanthelasma, ensuring long-lasting results.
Preventing Xanthelasma
While Xanthelasma cannot always be prevented, certain steps can help reduce your risk:
- Monitor cholesterol levels: Regular cholesterol checks can help you keep your lipid levels under control.
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats (such as omega-3 fatty acids) can help manage cholesterol levels.
- Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol).
- Avoid smoking: Smoking can increase cholesterol levels and affect overall heart health, contributing to Xanthelasma formation.
Xanthelasma may not pose any physical harm, but its appearance can be a cosmetic concern for many people. Fortunately CryoPen is an advanced, non-invasive treatment that can help reduce the appearance of Xanthelasma, restoring a more even-toned, healthy look to the skin.
At Skin Revision, we’re committed to helping you achieve your skincare goals with the latest treatment options. If you’re concerned about Xanthelasma and want to explore your treatment option, contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward clearer, smoother skin.