Melasma is a dark discoloration that appears on sun-exposed areas of the face.
It is often and most commonly associated with pregnancy and is usually called Chloasma, the "mask of pregnancy".
90% of women are affected in most cases.
Genes and hormonal changes play part in acquiring Melasma.
It is a very common skin disorder particularly in women with brownish skin tones, pregnant women, women who are taking birth control pills (oral contraceptives) and women taking oral replacement therapy (HRT) during menopause.
Individuals with a family history of Melasma are more likely to have effected.
Exposure to the sun highly contributes to Melasma.
UV rays from the sun can inflame melanocytes - cells responsible for producing pigments in the skin.
People with darker complexions have more active melanocytes than those with light skin.
Hormonal influences or changes also contribute to some individuals.
Thyroid disease in patients can increase the incidence of Melasma.
It is thought that overproduction of melancocyte-stimulating hormones (MSH) brought on by stress can also cause outbreaks of this condition.
Large amounts of pigments are produced by melanocytes under normal conditions, but these melanocytes increase production more if stimulated by exposure to light or hormone level increase.
Irritation of the skin can also cause an increase in pigmentation in people with darker skin.
Melasma does not cause any other symptom besides skin discoloration usually over certain areas of the face like the forehead, nose, cheeks, and the upper lip.
Since Melasma is a very common skin condition; Melasma diagnosis is simply done by a skin examination.
It is not usually related to or associated with internal diseases or organ malfunction.
While there is no cure for Melasma, there are many treatments available.
Sunscreens are essential in protecting against the harmful rays of the sun.
Sunblock and creams such as zinc oxide and titanium oxide may be used.
In some instances, your dermatologist may recommend chemical peels or topical steroid creams depending on the severity of the case.
In the most extreme cases of Melasma, laser treatment can be used to remove the dark pigments.
A variety of bleaching creams are also available.
These types of creams, however, do not destroy the pigment producing melanocytes but decrease the activity of these cells instead.
Creams that can be bought over-the-counter usually contain low concentrations of the most commonly-used depigmenting agent: hydroquinone.
Such treatment can often only be effective on mild forms of Melasma.
Hydroquinone creams work better when combined with steroids, glycolic acid, and tretinoin.
One of the most promising treatments contain a natural supplement called Melacor that helps restore hormonal imbalances.
Many women have found this treatment to be the most effective means to lighten their Melasma areas.
The most complicated Melasma treatments, Microdermabrasion, laser surgery and chemical peels, may help in the treatment of Melasma but results may not be consistent.
These types of procedures have the potential to cause irritation in which can sometimes worsen your skin problem.
That being said, it is very important to follow a dermatologist's instruction in order to get the maximum benefit of Melasma treatment.
You doctor will know which types or combinations of creams your skin type is more suited to.
Melasma management requires the help of a professional, so as to avoid further complications of your condition.
Avoiding the sun and irritant, use of sunscreen and depigmenting agents and a close doctor's supervision can lead to a better outcome of your treatment.