What is Melasma: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Manoj Kumar (B.Pharmacy)

Published : May 01, 2024

Last Updated : Oct 01, 2024

What is Melasma?

Melasma is a skin condition causing dark brown or grey patches, commonly appearing on the nose bridge, forehead, upper lip, cheeks, and chin. Often called the "mask of pregnancy," it is more prevalent in women, especially during pregnancy.

What are the symptoms of melasma?

The primary symptom of melasma is hyperpigmentation, presenting as symmetrical, uniform dark patches, typically on the face (forehead, chin, cheeks, upper lip).

Common Areas:

• Face
• Sun-exposed areas like the neck, forearms, and shoulders

Characteristics:

• Patches lighten in winter and darken in summer.

Read also - Dark spots on the skin: Causes, treatment, and remedies.

Types of melasma 

If we talk about melasma, there are mainly three types:

Epidermal melasma

Epidermal melasma appears as dark brown patches with well-defined borders. This type responds well to melasma treatments.

Dermal melasma

Dermal melasma appears as light brown or bluish patches on your skin and might be challenging to treat. 

Mixed melasma

Mixed melasma is mainly a combination of two types that cause dark and light brown or grey patches of discolouration on the skin. 

What are the causes of melasma?

The exact cause of melasma is unclear, but it is linked to overactive melanocytes producing excessive melanin. Moreover:

Some of the Possible causes of melasma include:

Antiseizure medicines 

Medications such as Clobazam, which prevents you from suffering from seizures, can develop melasma. 

Genetics 

Genetics significantly influence melasma, with nearly 50% of affected individuals reporting a family history. People with light brown skin are more prone to developing darker patches, especially with frequent sun exposure, which worsens melasma.

Contraceptive therapy or birth control pills

Melasma is commonly observed in individuals taking oral contraceptives containing progesterone and estrogen.

Exposure to sunlight 

UV radiation is responsible for bringing free radicals that further encourage melanocytes to produce additional melanin. 

Hormones

Hormones like progesterone and estrogen contribute to melasma in some individuals. Postmenopausal women on progesterone therapy have a higher risk. Pregnant women often experience elevated estrogen receptor levels in melasma lesions.

Thyroid problem 

Thyroid disorders are more common in melasma patients, often causing melasma marks to spread across the facial skin.

What are the Treatments for Melasma?

In some cases, melasma resolves naturally, especially if caused by pregnancy or birth control pills. However, effective treatments include:

Topical Treatments:

• Hydroquinone Cream: These acne creams are the most effective option for facial melasma.
• Medicinal Creams: Containing tretinoin and corticosteroids to lighten skin.
• Triple Creams: Combining hydroquinone, azelaic acid, tretinoin, kojic acid, and corticosteroids.

Prevention Tips:

• Avoid sun exposure.
• Use SPF formulations to prevent melasma development.

Medical procedures 

A dermatologist diagnoses melasma and may recommend procedures like dermabrasion, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, or laser treatments.

Laser and light therapies, especially green light therapy, are effective for UV-induced melasma and skin lightening.

Melasma is a skin disorder, not skin cancer, and should be discussed with a doctor before treatment.

Melasma supplements 

Managing melasma can be challenging. Along with topical treatments, dermatologists suggest zinc supplements for even-toned skin. Consult a nutritionist to identify the best supplements.

Medical procedures are a last resort, as improper application may cause side effects like melasma recurrence and skin irritation. Always consult a doctor before treatment.

Limit sun exposure and use effective sunscreen alongside topical treatments for better results.

Explore Acne treatments: Salicylic Acid vs. Benzoyl Peroxide: Which Is Better for Acne?