Melasma

Overview

Melasma

Melasma is a deeper brown or dark pigmentation also known as a pregnancy mask. Melasma often appears around pregnancy or with many hormonal changes (increased levels of progesterone) and use of birth control pills or during menopause and can also be hereditary. 

This chronic skin condition happens when you have an overproduction of the cells that make the color of your skin. It can appear anywhere on the body and is worsened by exposure to the sun. It is mostly found on the face of women 20 – 50 years of age than on men. Melasma is extremely difficult to treat, especially on darker skin types and can usually be lightened but not cleared.

Causes of melasma include:

• Anti seizure medications 
• Estrogen, is a synthetic form of hormone estrogen
• Genetrics 
• LED screen, such as a television, cell phone, or laptop 
• Soaps, some scented soaps 
• Tanning beds, due to the UV light 

WHAT CAN BE DONE?

How to Get Rid of Melasma?

Melasma is harmless and some treatments may help. To reduce the appearance of melasma, we suggest you book a consultation to evaluate your pigmentation. 

The risk of treating melasma with energy devices and lasers is that it can worsen with inflammation. Therefore, a careful assessment and lower settings are necessary. More treatments may be required to achieve the same results.

To avoid the formation of melasma, you should wear broad spectrum sunscreen and other defenses when being exposed to the sun.