What causes Melasma and hyperpigmentation?

What causes melasma, and what sort of melasma treatment is available?

3 answers to “What causes Melasma and...”

A: Melasma's causes are several

Bryan K. Chen, MD

Melasma is also known as the "mask of pregnancy."  Its causes, as mentioned include: 1. Hormones including estrogen and fluctuations in hormone levels) 2. Genetics 3. Sun Exposure 4. Inflammation or irritation 5. Heat (this is one factor that I threw in because it seems that... more

A: Melasma - skin types

Steven H. Williams, MD

Melasma can be treated the most effectively with the following: Hydroquinone Chemical peels IPL Fractionated Laser  As the other physicians have mentioned, however care and consideration must be used for patients with darker skin types as hypopigmentation may occur, creating a whole separate problem... more

A: Top 4 Causes of Melasma

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD

Melasma is a benign skin condition characterized by excessive pigment deposition in the skin.  Hyperpigmentation is generally diffuse in the area of the upper cheeks, forehead, and jawline.  The top 4 causes of melasma are as follows: Hormones (Estrogen, Progesterone) Genetics Sun... more

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