Melasma
Treatment and prevention of blotchy hyperpigmentation through sun protection, topical therapies, and advanced procedures.
What is Melasma?
Melasma is a common skin condition predominantly affecting women, characterized by blotchy patches of hyperpigmented skin that appear as tan or dark discolorations across the face — most frequently on the cheeks, nose, forehead, chin, and upper lip. Crucially, melasma is often a hormonally driven condition, frequently nicknamed "the mask of pregnancy," as the significant increase in hormones during gestation is a powerful trigger.
While sun exposure is a necessary factor to activate the pigment cells and may cause the discoloration to appear on other sun-exposed areas like the forearms and neck, the underlying susceptibility is internal. Melasma develops over time, is more common in skin of color, and tends to run in families.
Treatment is geared at preventing aggravation of the condition by the sun which requires the diligent use of sunscreens that block the sun's rays as well as light and heat. Topical medications include retinols, hydroquinone, kojic acid, azelaic acid, and cysteamine. Additional treatments include chemical peels and laser treatment. Dr. White will personalize a treatment plan to successfully address your specific needs.
FAQ
Common Questions
What causes melasma?
The cause of melasma is unclear, but sun exposure and fluctuations in hormone levels activate the skin cells, called melanocytes, to produce excess melanin, the substance that gives skin its color. Skin of color is more prone to melasma because it has more active melanocytes than lighter skin. Melasma often runs in families.
What are common melasma triggers?
Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun is a major trigger and can aggravate underlying causes like hormonal changes. Even a short exposure to the sun's light and heat can worsen existing melasma and cause it to return after treatment. Hormone fluctuations common during pregnancy, oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy are known to cause melasma.
How is melasma diagnosed?
Because of its characteristic appearance, melasma is often diagnosed visually and with the use of a Wood's Lamp which can distinguish excess melanin in the top skin layer from discoloration in the dermis. Board certified dermatologist Dr. Rachel White will review your medical history and determine the triggers that underlie your condition and tailor your treatment specifically.
Restore Your Skin's Clarity
Schedule a melasma consultation with our board-certified team.
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