Melasma
Melasma is a common skin condition characterised by hyperpigmentation and dark, discoloured patches on the skin. Melasma often affects the face, and whilst it is not harmful, it can be a personal issue for many.
Book an appointmentWhat is melasma?
Melasma is a common skin condition and form of hyperpigmentation. Melasma causes brown or grey-brown patches, typically on the face. It most commonly appears on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip, but it can also occur on other parts of the body that are frequently exposed to the sun – such as the forearms and neck.
What causes melasma?
The exact cause of melasma is unknown, but several factors are known to contribute to its development:
Sun exposure
Ultraviolet radiation from the sun stimulates melanocytes. Melanocytes are the skin cells that are responsible for pigment production, leading to melasma.
Hormonal changes
Hormonal fluctuations can trigger melasma. Hormonal changes, such as those related to pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapy, can all trigger melasma.
Genetics
A family history of melasma increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
Skin type
Individuals with darker skin types, such as those of Mediterranean, Asian, and Latin descent, are more prone to melasma.
Medications
Certain medications, including some antibiotics and drugs used to treat epilepsy, can make the skin more susceptible to developing melasma.
What are the symptoms of melasma?
Melasma is primarily defined by its distinct pigmentation changes. Common symptoms include:
- Dark, discoloured and hyperpigmented patches: The patches are usually symmetrical and appear on both sides of the face.
- Colour variations: These patches can be light brown, dark brown, or blue-grey.
- Location: Most commonly on the face, but melasma can also appear on sun-exposed areas of the body.
How to treat melasma
Melasma can be challenging to treat. However, there are several options that can help reduce its appearance:
Topical treatments for melasma
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent that decreases the formation of melanin.
Retinoids
Retinoids help to speed up cell turnover and promote the removal of pigmented cells.
Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids reduce inflammation and can help lighten melasma patches.
You can also use a triple combination cream. Containing hydroquinone, retinoids, and corticosteroids, these can be used for a certain amount of time to lighten the lesions.
Sun protection: Sun protection with consistent use of broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is crucial in preventing melasma from worsening and aiding in its treatment.
Oral Medications for melasma
Tranexamic acid: Tranexamic acid can be taken to reduce melasma.
Other management options such as laser and chemical peels can also be of use but these can also cause pigmentation if not careful.
How to prevent melasma
Preventing melasma involves protecting your skin from factors that can trigger or exacerbate the condition:
- Use sun protection: using a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily, and reapplying it according to the instructions, wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses, and staying out of direct sunlight during peak hours – between 11am and 3pm can help to reduce melasma.
- Avoid hormonal triggers: keep an eye on your melasma and discuss alternative birth control options with your doctor if you suspect your contraceptives are contributing to melasma.
- Adopt a regular skincare routine: using gentle skincare products to avoid irritating your skin and incorporating antioxidants, such as vitamin C, into your skincare routine will help to protect you against UV damage.
- Regular monitoring: keeping an eye on any changes in your skin and consulting with a dermatologist if you notice new or worsening pigmentation can help to keep it under control.
Important information
When should I see a dermatologist for my melasma?
If you suspect you have melasma or if over-the-counter treatments are not helping, it's important to seek professional advice. A dermatologist can provide a thorough assessment and recommend a personalised and tailored treatment plan to address your specific needs.
What's the first step to treating melasma?
The first step is to book a consultation with one of our experts. From there we will assess your skin and aim to understand more about your lifestyle. We will ask questions about your medical history, as well as your current medications, in order to identify any triggers.
Once we have all the information we need, we will then prescribe you the best course of treatment for you, alongside a personalised skincare programme, designed to reduce the pigmentation.
Melasma is a common but manageable skin condition that affects many people all over the world. Understanding individual causes and symptoms is key to effective treatment and prevention. By adopting a proactive approach with the help of a dermatologist, people can reduce the appearance of their melasma and maintain healthier, more evenly toned skin. Regular use of sun protection and appropriate skincare routines play crucial roles in managing this condition.
Explore melasma treatment with our experts
At Experts in Skin and Hair, we treat all types of melasma and skin discolouration at our clinics. We will spend time analysing your skin and understanding your concerns, before suggesting a treatment plan to suit you.
The treatment we offer will depend on a number of factors, such as the severity of your melasma, and what treatments you have tried to date.
We understand how melasma can impact your life and affect your confidence, and will do everything we can to help you feel confident.
Get in touch with our team today to discuss your melasma treatment.