Melasma
Melasma is a common skin condition causing brown or grey-brown patches on the face and at times, other areas of the body. It is often associated with sun exposure and hormonal changes, particularly in women. At SkinAccess Clinics, we offer specialized care to help manage and treat melasma, restoring an even skin tone.
What is Melasma?
Melasma is a kind of hyperpigmentation that typically affects the face, especially the cheeks, forehead, nose and upper lip. It may also develop on other parts of the body that are frequently exposed to the sun, like the forearms and neck. Melasma can affect anyone, but is more common in women, especially during pregnancy. It is not harmful or painful, but causes significant cosmetic concerns and can affect a person’s self-esteem.
Symptoms of Melasma
The primary symptom of melasma is the appearance of dark, discoloured patches on the skin. These patches are typically characterized as
１. Brown or grey-brown
２. Flat and symmetrical (appearing on both sides of the face)
３. Well-defined but irregular in shape
Melasma most commonly affects the face, but can also occur in other areas prone to sun exposure. The patches usually develop gradually and may become more prominent with prolonged sun exposure.
Causes of Melasma
The exact cause of melasma is not properly understood. However, several factors are believed to cause its development
Melasma production can be triggered by ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun by stimulating melanocytes. These are the cells responsible for pigment production in the skin.
Hormonal fluctuations caused during pregnancy, the use of birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy can lead to the development of melasma.
If an individual has a family history of melasma, they are more prone to developing it.
Individuals with a darker skin type are more prone to melasma as they have more active melanocytes.
Some medications and certain skincare products can cause the skin to be more sensitive to sunlight, increasing the risk of developing melasma.
Diagnosis of Melasma
Melasma is diagnosed by a visual examination by a dermatologist. Sometimes ultraviolet (UV) light may be used to view the extent of the pigment in the skin. In some rare cases where there may be uncertainty about the diagnosis, a skin biopsy may be required.
Management and Treatment of Melasma
The management of melasma is challenging as it can be persistent and prone to recurrence. However, there are several treatment options available to help lighten the dark patches and improve your skin’s appearance. At SkinAccess Clinics, we provide a range of treatment options tailored to your specific needs
➥ Sun Protection: Strict sun protection is the cornerstone of melasma treatment. You should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, wear wide-brimmed hats while out and avoid direct sun exposure during peak hours.
➥ Topical Treatments: Prescription creams or other lightening agents can help reduce pigmentation and even out your skin tone.
➥ Chemical Peels: These help to exfoliate the skin and reduce the appearance of dark patches.
➥ Laser Treatments: Advanced treatments such as Nd:YAG lasers target deeper pigmentation and help improve skin tone.
➥ Oral Medications: At times, oral medications may be prescribed to help manage melasma, particularly in cases where it is resistant to other treatments.
➥ Skincare Routine: A tailored skincare routine with the use of gentle, non-irritating products can help maintain results and prevent flare-ups.