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What Causes Melasma?

asked 3 years ago by anon
Latest answer by Miriam Hanson, MD
Question viewed 3,752 times
Tags: causes, melasma

Is there anything preventative I can do to keep melasma from developing?

3 answers to What Causes Melasma?

+1

Melasma is related to sun and hormonal changes

While the exact cause of melasma is unknown, it appears to be an interaction between hormones and the sun. We know that the sun is necessary for development of melasma, and sun exposure darkens these spots. Melasma is often triggered by hormonal changes, and is more common in women. It often first appears during or after pregnancy (sometimes called "the mask of pregnancy"), when taking birth control pills, or at other times when a woman's hormones fluctuate. However, it can... more
Miriam Hanson, MD

Austin Dermatologist
+1

No sun equals no melasma

Patients may have many predisposing factors for the development of melasma but the universal trigger is the sun.  Although difficult, it is very possible to get absolutely no sun on the face.  This means wearing broad brimmed hats and sunscreen at all times when outside during the day. If melasma does develop, seek the help of a board certified dermatologist for a diagnosis, further workup if deemed necessary and a treatment regimen.
Anthony Perri, MD

Houston Dermatologist
+1

Melasma involves some important control factors

Melasma is normally a hormonal issue. Some skin discolorations are caused by over exposure to sun or heat (you can get hyperpigmentation from standing over a hot stove - this is sometimes a problem for those who work in restaurant kitchens) No matter what the root cauase of your melasma, being in the sun without sunscreen will make it worse. Melasma starts deep in the skin so a "fast" resolution is never as fast as someone hopes for. Stopping the production of excess melanin is a... more
Nissan Pilest, MD

Irvine Dermatologic Surgeon

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