Melasma is usually brought on because of a mix of extended sun and female hormone fluctuations, which is why it is also typically known as “chloasma faciel,” or “face of pregnancy.” With the two aspects simultaneously, melanin-generating cells (which are the cause of skin color) get into overdrive, making skin to appear more dark than it should in areas.
In addition to pregnancy and hereditary factors, Melasma may very well be brought about by contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, skin swelling, waxing, thyroid problem, and excessive stress levels. Furthermore, various prescribed medicines like tetracycline and quinine can cause melanin production.
The simplest way to prevent Melasma, or keep it from getting worse, is to protect the skin from exposure to the sun. Stay out of the sun as much as possible, and if you must stay outdoors long, wear protective clothing and a hat, and be sure to use sunscreen every day to prevent UV radiation. For additional protection, find a sun screen that contains physical blockers like zinc dioxide and titanium dioxide, with an SPF of at least 20.
For most pregnant women, Melasma can go away on its own after giving birth. Many times it can persist for months, or even years, before vanishing.
Even though there isn’t a known cure for Melasma, there are many ways to minimize the look of it by lightening the dark spots with time.
One of the most well liked options is using a hydroquinone-based chemical peel, which, after using, can penetrate into the layers of the epidermis to reduce dark discoloration and prevent it from getting worse.
Superficial peels with alpha hydroxyacids or glycolic acid can also help, albeit with several more treatments than what a hydroquinone chemical peel would need. The up side is that superficial peels have a much faster recovery time. Both of these options are available over the counter.
Treatments using a Fraxel laser or intense pulsed light therapy may be a more drastic and costly alternative, but may provide better outcomes at times. Make sure to consult a qualified and highly regarded clinic for any laser session.
Cosmetic Laser MD is a medspa community of plastic surgeons, dermatologists, and aesthetic physicians with more than 5,500 medical spa members world-wide and offers patients resources for melasma chemical peel and offers information on nonsurgical cosmetic medical technologies and treatments for patients.
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