Melasma: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatments

What is Melasma?

Melasma is a common skin problem that causes patches of skin to appear darker than the surrounding skin. It’s also known as chloasma or the “mask of pregnancy” when it occurs in pregnant women. The condition is much more common in women than men, with 90 percent of people who develop melasma being women.

Symptoms of Melasma

Melasma causes patches of discoloration that are typically darker than the surrounding skin. The patches are usually symmetrical, with matching marks on both sides of the face. Other areas of the body that are often exposed to the sun can also develop melasma.

Common Affected Areas

* Cheeks
* Forehead
* Bridge of the nose
* Chin
* Neck
* Forearms

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Causes of Melasma

It’s not entirely clear what causes melasma, but it’s associated with:

* Darker skin tones
* Estrogen and progesterone sensitivity
* Birth control pills
* Pregnancy
* Hormone therapy
* Stress
* Thyroid disease
* Sun exposure

Diagnosis of Melasma

A visual exam of the affected area is often enough to diagnose melasma. To rule out specific causes, a healthcare professional might also perform some tests, such as a Wood’s lamp examination or a biopsy.

Treatments for Melasma

For some women, melasma disappears on its own. However, there are creams that a healthcare professional can prescribe to help lighten the skin. Topical steroids can also be prescribed to help lighten affected areas. If these don’t work, chemical peels, dermabrasion, and microdermabrasion may be options.

Things You Can Do to Manage Melasma

* Use makeup to cover areas of discoloration
* Take prescribed medication
* Wear sunscreen every day with SPF 30
* Wear a wide-brimmed hat that shields or provides shade for your face
* Wear protective clothing if you’ll be in the sun for an extended period of time

Conclusion

Melasma is a common skin condition that can cause patches of discoloration. While it’s not curable, there are treatments available to help lighten the skin. By understanding the causes and symptoms of melasma, you can take steps to manage the condition and reduce its appearance.

FAQs

Q: What is melasma?
A: Melasma is a common skin problem that causes patches of skin to appear darker than the surrounding skin.

Q: What are the symptoms of melasma?
A: The symptoms of melasma include patches of discoloration that are typically darker than the surrounding skin.

Q: What causes melasma?
A: The causes of melasma are not entirely clear, but it’s associated with darker skin tones, estrogen and progesterone sensitivity, birth control pills, pregnancy, hormone therapy, stress, thyroid disease, and sun exposure.

Q: How is melasma diagnosed?
A: Melasma is diagnosed through a visual exam of the affected area and may involve additional tests, such as a Wood’s lamp examination or a biopsy.

Q: What treatments are available for melasma?
A: Treatments for melasma include creams, topical steroids, chemical peels, dermabrasion, and microdermabrasion.

Q: Can melasma be prevented?
A: While melasma cannot be completely prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce the risk of developing it, such as using sunscreen every day and wearing protective clothing when in the sun.