Melasma is a relatively common skin condition in adults, where darker than normal pigmentation develops, mainly on the face.
The condition causes brown or greyish patches of discolouration to develop, which can be quite noticeable and therefore distressing for the patient.
It is highly susceptible to sun exposure and tends to get even worse after time outdoors – even when wearing SPF sunscreen and trying to avoid the sun.
What causes melasma?
The condition, which may also be called ‘chloasma’, is the result of increased activity of the melanocytes, the cells that produce the skin pigment called melanin.
The exact cause of melasma is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including:
- Sun exposure: UV rays from the sun can trigger the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.
- Hormones: Melasma is more common in women, and it can be triggered by hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy or menopause.
- Medications: Some medications, such as oral contraceptives and anti-inflammatory drugs, can trigger melasma.
- Genetics: Melasma is more common in people with a family history of the condition. It is also more common in people with darker skintones.
Melasma appearance
Melasma typically appears as brown or greyish patches on the face. These can range from light shadows to quite distinct darker areas. The patches can be flat or raised, and although they are usually symmetrical or asymmetrical.
The areas most commonly affected are:
- Forehead
- Cheeks
- Upper lip
- Nose
- Chin
Melasma is classed as a cosmetic problem as it is not harmful and not normally accompanied by any itching, soreness or change in the skin’s condition. However, the physical appearance of melasma is an aesthetic issue which is usually a cause of embarrassment and concern for the patient.
Some patients find that their Melasma can come and go over time. The condition tends to worsen in summer when there’s more sun exposure and may therefore improve over winter, when the sun’s rays are not so strong. It can also worsen or improve when it is related to hormones or medications and there are changes here, so it’s definitely worth trying to work out whether there are any specific triggers.
Professional skin treatments to consider:
Melasma can be a difficult problem to treat successfully. It can be a persistent condition, and even with treatment, the patches may not completely go away. However, with proper management and ongoing care, most people with melasma can expect to see some improvement in the appearance of their skin.
We often speak to clients who have tried a number of ineffective treatments before consulting us, but it is always worth exploring the options. Our high tech equipment and advanced skincare formulations are not widely available elsewhere. In addition, Dr John Tanqueray’s extensive 20+ years experience in skin treatments combined wtih his background as a GP mean that he is expert at combining treatments for a tailor-made approach. Here are a few to consider:
There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for melasma and every case is different. The best treatment for you will depend on the severity of your condition.
DIY tips to prevent melasma
There are a few things that you can do yourself to help prevent melasma. The same advice will also apply after treatment, to help reduce the risk of triggering another outbreak:
- Wear sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days.
- Avoid sun exposure where possible and especially during the middle of the day, when the sun’s rays are strongest.
- Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your face from the sun.
- Avoid using harsh soaps and detergents on your face.
- Exfoliate your face regularly to remove dead skin cells.
- If you are taking medications that can trigger melasma, talk to your doctor about other options.
Interesting facts:
This condition may also be called ‘mask of pregnancy’ where it occurs as a result of the hormones produced while pregnant.
The most important thing you can do if you have melasma is to protect your skin from exposure to the sun. Avoid direct exposure to the sun where possible. Choose a SPF30+ sun screen which protects against both UVA and UVB light and wear a broad hat to shield your face.
