Melasma is a common skin condition that causes dark and discoloured patches to appear on the face, typically in areas most exposed to sunlight, such as the cheeks, forehead, bridge of the nose, chin, and upper lip.
It affects both men and women but is much more common in women because of its association with fluctuating hormone levels associated with pregnancy or oral contraceptive use. In some cases, it can also be caused by genetic factors or a history of sun exposure.
The primary cause of melasma is increased pigment production caused by ultraviolet radiation from the sun or even tanning beds. If you have a family history of melasma or have taken certain medications such as birth control pills containing estrogen and progesterone then you may be predisposed to developing this skin condition. Heat, stress, and certain cosmetics can also trigger melasma flare-ups.
Treatment for melasma depends on how severe your case may be. In mild cases protecting your skin from further sun damage through regular application of sunscreen can help prevent further discoloration and reduce existing spots over time.
Additionally, there are many topical creams such as hydroquinone which can help lighten the affected area over time with regular use. Laser treatments are also available if topical cream is not effective; however, they are expensive and may require multiple sessions for optimal results.
Lastly chemical peels offer another option for treatment but can be harsh on the skin so consultation with a doctor is recommended before undergoing any peel procedure.
Melasma is a common skin condition that can be triggered by multiple factors, including sun exposure, hormone levels, genetics, heat, stress, medications, and cosmetics. The best way to treat melasma is to protect yourself from further UV damage through regular sunscreen use, along with other treatments such as topical creams or laser therapy if needed. Consultation with a dermatologist should always take place before beginning any type of treatment plan for optimal results.
Treating Melasma with Laser TherapyMelasma can be a difficult condition to treat. Fortunately, many laser treatments are available to help reduce the appearance of melasma.Fractional non-ablative lasers such as Fraxel can help improve melasma by creating pinholes in the skin’s surface, stimulating collagen production and allowing the body to heal itself. This type of laser […]
