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Melasma is a skin problem in which brown or grey-brown patches develop on the skin (generally on the cheeks, nose, forehead, chin upper lip). It also develops in those parts of the body which are more exposed to the sunlight, like – the neck.
Cause of Melasma
Melasma develops more on women than on men’s skin. It appears to people with darker skin, generally from North America, Asia, Middle East, the Mediterranean etc. People who have a blood relative who had Melasma, are also much more likely to get Melasma.
It is not yet clear about what causes melasma. As per experts, it mostly occurs when the colour-making cells of the skin (melanocytes) produce too much colour. Hence, people with skin of colour are more prone to melasma due to highly active melanocytes.
Common Melasma Triggers
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Sun exposure
UV (Ultraviolet) light from the sun fuels the melanocytes. In fact, a small amount of sunlight is capable of developing melasma even after fading.
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A change in hormones
When melasma appears in pregnant women, it is known as Chloasma/ Mask of pregnancy. Consuming medicines which bring a change in hormones can also generate Melasma.
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Cosmetics
Skincare products which are not suitable for sensitive skin can also generate melasma and even worsen it.
Diagnosis, Treatment and Outcome
A device called Wood’s Light is used by dermatologists to check how much Melasma has affected the skin. Otherwise, most dermatologists can diagnose patients by looking at the skin.
Sometimes, melasma can look like yet another skin condition and might develop a problem in differentiating between healthy skin and melasma skin. To rule that, the dermatologists may need to remove a bit of skin and run tests over it.
Generally, melasma develops in pregnant women and those who are taking birth control pills. In those cases, it fades out on its own after delivering the baby or stops taking birth control pills.
But in some people, it even stays for a year or a lifetime. If it doesn’t go away, then there are a few available treatments; Hydroquinone, Tretinoin or Corticosteroids. If even after using topical medicines, the melasma is not fading out, then a procedure is available which includes a chemical peel, Microdermabrasion and dermabrasion. Though new skin problems can occur if not executed properly, keeping factors like; skin type etc.
Treatments sometimes also come with side effects like developing health problems. So, one should consult a dermatologist about any possible side effects before using the medicine.
NOTE: If you face any of these problems after treating melasma, then consult your dermatologist as soon as possible; skin irritation, darkening of skin or any other issues related to skin.
Outcome
Most patients with melasma have a good outcome after treatment. However, it is very important to follow the dermatologist’s advice after treatment so that it won’t be able to recur again hence preventing the skin from the side effects.
After your melasma fades out, you may have to keep treating your skin, which is known as maintenance therapy. It can prevent melasma from recurring.
Tips For Managing
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Wear sunscreen
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Wear a wide-brimmed hat when you are out in the summer.
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Choose skin care products gently
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Avoid waxing
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