Triggers and Influencing Factors of Melasma

The dark patches appearing on your skin are not always just hyperpigmentation. Your skin may be signaling you for something more serious. So, you have to take a deep dive into it. Look for the symptoms carefully and you will be able to determine if it is hyperpigmentation or melasma. Now the question arises “What is Melasma?”

Melasma is a skin condition where dark patches appear on the face. It's a bit complicated because we're not exactly sure where it comes from. Even though we don't know the exact cause, there are different things that can start it or make it worse. Understanding these things is really important so that we can do things to prevent it and manage it well if it happens.

·      Hormonal Changes:

Changes in hormones play a big role in causing melasma, making it more common in women, especially during times of hormonal shifts like pregnancy. Using birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can also trigger melasma.

·      Sun Exposure:

Being in the sun is a major factor for melasma. The sun gives off ultraviolet (UV) radiation, and this affects melasma a lot. Sunlight makes the skin produce more melanin, which is the pigment that determines skin color. This, in turn, makes existing melasma patches worse.

·      Genetics:

A hereditary inclination to melasma exists, with a higher likelihood of its manifestation if it runs in the family. Individuals with a familial history of melasma are more susceptible to pigmentation irregularities.

·      Skin Type:

Melasma exhibits a predilection for individuals with darker skin tones, particularly those of Hispanic, Asian, or Middle Eastern descent. Higher susceptibility is observed in individuals with Fitzpatrick skin types III to VI.

·      Hormonal Therapies and Medications:

Certain medications, such as oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapies, may contribute to hormonal imbalances, triggering melasma in susceptible individuals.

·      Pregnancy (Chloasma):

Termed chloasma or the "mask of pregnancy," melasma during gestation results from hormonal shifts and heightened sun sensitivity.

·      Cosmetic Products and Irritants:

Usage of certain cosmetic products or skincare treatments containing skin-irritating ingredients can contribute to melasma, especially in those susceptible to pigmentation changes.

·      Thyroid Disorders:

Some thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism, may be associated with melasma. Hormonal imbalances related to thyroid dysfunction contribute to skin pigmentation irregularities.

·      Heat:

Prolonged exposure to heat, whether from hot weather or hot water, can exacerbate melasma by stimulating pigment-producing cells in the skin.

·      Inflammatory Skin Conditions:

Inflammatory conditions like eczema or psoriasis may contribute to melasma by creating an environment conducive to pigment changes.

·      Sun Protection:

The cornerstone of melasma prevention involves high SPF sunscreen and broad-spectrum protection, coupled with sun avoidance and protective clothing.

·      Hormonal Management:

Addressing hormonal fluctuations through medical interventions may help prevent and control melasma related to hormonal changes.

·      Skincare Regimen:

Employing gentle skincare products devoid of harsh chemicals or irritants is vital for melasma prevention, with dermatologist recommendations playing a crucial role.

·      Topical Treatments:

Dermatologists may prescribe topical treatments containing ingredients like hydroquinone, tretinoin, or kojic acid to lighten melasma patches.

·      Procedures:

Dermatological procedures, including chemical peels, microdermabrasion, or laser therapy, may be considered for melasma treatment under the guidance of healthcare professionals.

Knowing the many things that can cause melasma is crucial to take actions to prevent it and manage it well. If you have melasma or are worried about changes in pigmentation on your skin, it's important to talk to the best skin specialist like Prof Dr Ikram Ullah Khan. Dermatologists can carefully check everything and create a plan that's just right for you.