Melasma
Melasma, known for years as "the mask of pregnancy," is not unique to women. Melasma is a skin condition characterized by dark patches of color on the face, most commonly on the forehead, cheeks, and nose areas. While links have been made to hormonal changes, like those that result from birth control pills and pregnancy, it is a skin condition that can affect males as well.
The development of large brown patches on the face can be startling and unwanted. One of the first thoughts victims of melasma typically have is the worry of skin cancer. While your dermatologist may conduct a biopsy of affected skin tissue, a diagnosis of melasma has nothing to do with skin cancer.
Melasma occurs due to an over production of pigment by melanocytes in the skin's dermis. UV light is the stimulus for melanocytes, so adequate sunscreen and sun protection can help minimize melasma's effects. Covering up the brown patches with cosmetics can be tricky, as certain compounds in makeup can agitate the skin and make the brown areas more pronounced.
Melasma Treatments
Treatment for melasma usually includes a dermatologist prescribed cream to the affected areas. The topical creams vary as to the active ingredient, as glycolic, azelaic, and kojic acids have all shown signs of effective treatment for melasma. There are over-the-counter remedies available, typically with steroids or hydroquinone, but users should consult with a physician before any long-term use.
Other melasma sufferers have turned to the world of cosmetic surgery to reduce the appearance of dark patches on the skin. The most popular solutions include lasers, microdermabrasion, and chemical peels. Unfortunately, the end results of these procedures are mixed, and not commonly covered by insurance. Not only that, but cosmetic surgery is still surgery, so it is vital those with melasma discuss all of the possible complications with their surgeon and regular physician and dermatologist.
The toughest part of melasma is it appears without warning, and disappears sometimes without any action by the victim. The most common cause of melasma is a hormonal imbalance. If this imbalance is caused by something short-term, like pregnancy, the melasma is likely to clear up on its own. If birth control pills or other hormonal treatments cause melasma, talk to your doctor about alternative formulas or solutions. Finally, reducing face time with the sun will greatly reduce the pigmentation of melasma patches. While SPF 30 and above should work, a hat or umbrella may be necessary in the sunniest climates to protect against an occurrence of melasma.
