Melasma

Melasma is a condition in which the skin develops dark patches of hyperpigmentation, usually in the area of the face. The condition is often known as “the mask of pregnancy”, because in severe cases it resembles a mask, and is rather common among pregnant women. However, melasma can affect women at any time, and it sometimes even affects men. The condition usually affects people who already have naturally dark skin. In light skinned people, the skin is typically less capable of producing melanin and therefore darkening of the skin due to tanning or some disorder is less likely. Melasma also seems, to some extent, to be an inherited trait. People are more likely to develop melasma if other people in their family have had it.

Melasma usually affects the area of skin on the cheeks and sometimes above the lips too. In more severe cases it may also affect the chin and the forehead. The condition seems to worsen when estrogen levels are high, which is why it is more common among pregnant women. Women who are on hormonal birth control pills can also develop melasma for the same reason. Certain medications are also known to cause melasma. In all these cases, the problem is usually temporary. With pregnancy of course, you only have to bear the problem till the end of the pregnancy. Within a few months after your delivery, your skin will be back to normal. If the problem seems to be your birth control pills, you should consider using another type of contraceptive. If the problem seems to be some other medication, get your doctor to confirm the link, and also to recommend an alternative medication that will have the same effect. Never stop or substitute your medication without your doctor's advice and knowledge.

There are not many melasma treatments by way of home remedies. The main thing you need to do is avoid exposure to sunlight, as this will exacerbate the problem. You should never step out of your house without adequate protection, no matter what the season is – this includes sunscreen and, preferably, a hat. If in spite of all these precautions, the hyper pigmentation is severe and is bothering you, you should consult your doctor. There are several topical medications that are used for melasma treatment. Dermal melasma is usually more difficult to get rid of than epidermal melasma, but today there are some treatments that do work.