The thing about melasma is that it can be temporary or chronic; but either way, it is a significant cosmetic concern for most people. Melasma is characterized by dark patches or discoloration on the skin, typically on the face but it can also occur on other parts of the body. This comprehensive guide aims to provide a thorough understanding of melasma, including its causes, symptoms, and options for melasma treatment in Singapore.
What is melasma?
Melasma is a skin condition that causes hyperpigmentation, resulting in patches of darkened skin. It is most commonly observed on the face, particularly on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip. However, it can also occur on other sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the neck and arms.
Causes of melasma
The root cause of melasma has yet to be fully understood, but its development is linked to various factors. One of the primary causes is too much exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays as it can cause the formation of melanin, which determines the skin’s color. Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy or while taking birth control pills, can also trigger melasma. Additionally, certain medications, cosmetics, and genetic predisposition can play a role in the development of melasma as well.
Factors that contribute to melasma
Hormonal fluctuations, such as those experienced during pregnancy or when taking hormonal contraceptives, are known to increase the risk of melasma. Sun exposure is another significant factor, as UV rays can worsen existing melasma or trigger its onset. People with a family history of melasma are also more likely to develop the condition. Finally, individuals with darker skin types, such as those of Hispanic, Asian, or African descent, are more prone to melasma.
Effects of melasma on an individual
Melasma is not a life-threatening condition but here are some of the ways having melasma can affect a person:
- Cosmetic concerns: Melasma can significantly impact a person’s self-esteem and confidence due to the visible pigmentation on the face. This can lead to psychological distress and self-consciousness.
- Emotional impact: Dealing with melasma can lead to emotional distress and affect a person’s mental well-being, especially if they are self-conscious about their appearance.
- Sun sensitivity: Individuals with melasma often experience increased sensitivity to sunlight. Sun exposure can worsen the pigmentation, making it essential for affected individuals to regularly use sun protection, such as sunscreen and hats, which can be burdensome.
- Quality of life: Melasma can impact an individual’s quality of life, affecting social interactions and causing limitations in activities that involve sun exposure, such as outdoor events and sports.
- Treatment challenges: Treating melasma can be challenging, and it may require a combination of topical medications, chemical peels, and laser treatments. Finding an effective treatment regimen can be time-consuming and costly, too.
- Chronic nature: Melasma can be a chronic condition for many individuals, requiring long-term management and vigilance to prevent worsening of the pigmentation.
Where does melasma occur on the body?
Melasma typically appears on the face, with the most common parts being the forehead, cheeks, nose, and upper lip. These regions are more prone to melasma due to their increased exposure to sunlight. Melasma can also occur on other areas of the body that are regularly exposed to the sun, such as the neck, arms, and chest.
Who is at risk for developing melasma?
Melasma can affect anyone, but certain individuals are at a higher risk of developing the condition. Women, particularly those who are pregnant or taking hormonal contraceptives, are more prone to melasma due to hormonal fluctuations. People with a family history of melasma or a personal history of excessive sun exposure are also at an increased risk. Additionally, individuals with darker skin types are more susceptible to developing melasma.
Kinds of melasma
There are three main kinds of melasma: dermal, epidermal, and mixed. Epidermal melasma affects the skin’s topmost layer and is identified by patches that are brown, well-defined and dark in color. Dermal melasma, on the other hand, affects the deeper layers of the skin and appears as bluish-gray patches. Mixed melasma combines features of both epidermal and dermal melasma, with patches that are both light and dark in color.
Symptoms of melasma
The primary symptom of melasma is the presence of dark patches or discoloration on the skin. These patches are typically brown or grayish in color and have irregular shapes. They are most commonly observed on the areas of the face such as the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip. In some cases, melasma may cause mild itching or a burning sensation, but it is generally not associated with any pain or discomfort.
Diagnosing melasma
Melasma can usually be diagnosed based on a visual assessment of the affected skin. A dermatologist or healthcare professional will typically evaluate the appearance of the patches, their location, and any associated symptoms. Sometimes, a skin test called Wood’s lamp examination may be done, which involves shining an ultraviolet light on the skin to determine the depth of the melasma. This can help differentiate between epidermal and dermal melasma.
Treating melasma: Medical options
There are several medical treatment options available for melasma. Medicated creams or gels that are infused with ingredients such as azelaic acid, hydroquinone, corticosteroids, or retinoids are some examples of topical treatments. These medications work by inhibiting melanin production or promoting the turnover of skin cells. In some cases, chemical peels or microdermabrasion may be recommended to remove the outer layer of skin and reduce the appearance of melasma. Laser therapy or intense pulsed light (IPL) treatments can also be effective in targeting and reducing melasma pigmentation.
Home remedies and natural treatments
In addition to medical treatments, there are also various home remedies and natural treatments that may help improve melasma. These include the application sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) to protect the skin from the sun’s harmful rays, using clothing that works well to shield the skin from the sun, and avoiding excessive sun exposure. Some natural ingredients, such as vitamin C, kojic acid, licorice extract, and aloe vera, may also have skin-lightening properties and can be incorporated into skincare routines to help reduce melasma pigmentation.
Cambridge Medical Group
391B Orchard Road, #08-05A1
Tower B, Ngee Ann City
Singapore 238874
Phone +65 6733 0777
SMS/Whatsapp +65 9155 8869