Melasma
Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that appears as brown or gray patches on the face, often triggered by sun exposure and hormonal changes. While not dangerous, it can be a cosmetic concern. Treatment focuses on fading the discoloration and preventing further darkening.
Symptoms
Melasma is characterized by irregular hyperpigmented patches, often symmetrical, located on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip. These patches may be of varying size and can be worse with sun exposure. People wake up one day to find that their skins have changed color and this brings about consciousness or concern as to the new change.
Causes
The root cause of melasma is hormonal, and it can be precipitated by pregnancy, oral contraceptives, or hormone replacement therapy. Ultraviolet light from the sun boosts melanin synthesis, making the condition worse. Others may be based on family history and some medication that makes an individual sensitive to sunlight.
Treatment
There are treatments for melasma; they include topical treatments like hydroquinone that reduces the color of the skin and retinoids that increase skin turning over. Other ways of improving pigmentation contain also chemical peel and laser therapies. For this reason, the routine use of sunscreen with sun protection factor is advised in the prevention of worsening of this condition.
Tips from our experts
For melasma, our specialists advise the patient to avoid going out in the sun when it is hot and use a sunscreen with a high SPF number on a daily basis. Healthy skin can be preserved by including antioxidants, especially vitamin C in the list of products used for the purpose. It is therefore important for patients with skin conditions to seek dermatologist advice from time to time in order to have a clear program of action on the type of treatments that should be administered.