Are You Struggling with Melasma? | This Guide Will Help
Melasma is a skin condition that can affect anyone, regardless of gender. It causes brown or black patches on the face and other parts of the body.
These patches are usually found on sun-exposed areas such as the cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin. Although melasma isn’t life-threatening, it can be very painful for those who have to deal with it every day.
In this guide we will answer some common questions about melasma so you know what to do if you’re struggling with this skin condition!
What is Melasma?
The word melisma comes from the Greek meaning “black pigment” and refers to patches of darkened skin. These dark spots are usually found on sun-exposed areas such as cheeks, forehead or nose but can also be seen elsewhere like arms (especially in women) thighs etcetera.
Melanin production may increase because it’s stimulated by UV light, causing the brown marks that we now today call melanoma! It does not produce any symptoms besides a changeable pigmentation so if you have this condition then consult your dermatologist for treatment options right away before things get worse!
Can I Prevent Myself From Getting This Condition?
Women do not like the dark spots that develop as we age, so here are some pointers for avoiding melasma:
– Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even on cloudy days.
– Wear protective clothing and sunglasses when outdoors to shield the skin from UV rays that cause melisma (even if you are pregnant, use sun protection because it is not only your own health at stake but also the baby’s!)
If these tips don’t work for you, try consulting a dermatologist about other prevention options.
What is the Best Treatment for Skin Discoloration?
There’s really no “best” treatment for skin discoloration as everyone has different skin conditions. If you are looking into products, try consulting a pharmacist or an aesthetician about the different options available – and ask hard questions if they suggest anything that includes hydroquinone.
Why is Hydroquinone Controversial?
Science works hard to develop skincare solutions, but some prefer natural treatments. Hydroquinone frightens many women because it is a skin-bleaching agent.
What is hydroquinone? It’s an ingredient that can be found in many skincare products, including some over the counter creams and lotions for lightening dark spots on your face or body (such as melasma). The FDA has approved hydroquinone to treat certain conditions such like chloasmas, but it hasn’t been proven safe enough yet by scientists who are studying its effects long term.
Many people say they’ve seen results with using these types of treatments while others don’t see anything. People with sensitive skin report that hydroquinone causes redness, itching or burning.
It can also increase your risk to develop ochronosis (a condition that causes dark patches in areas where you have used it). If this happens, stop using it.
Go back to your doctor and describe the damage. The doctor may prescribe a different treatment.
*Note: The FDA has approved hydroquinone to treat certain conditions such like chloasmas but that’s not melasma.
If you’re just frustrated with minor discoloration, try a lightening cream instead.
You may not need those more potent treatments for at all.
Can Melasma be Cured?
Melasma can only be prevented or treated. As I mentioned above, it’s not dangerous, but can cause some discomfort and frustration.
To prevent a lot of harmful skin issues as you age, please use sunscreen. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is the best protection against sun damage and melasma, as well!