Melasma is due to increase in the amount of pigment melanin in your skin and the various causes that can lead to this are:
- Sun exposure – Exposure to UV rays increases the melanocyte production in the skin which leads to increase in the pigment melanin. There is also an increase in free radical damage on UV exposure.
- Birth control pills – This is due to imbalance in levels of estrogen and progesterone hormones in the body.
- Genetic predisposition – Family history is an important risk factor for developing melasma. Some studies have indicated 55–64% of patients with this condition have a positive family history.
- Other Medications that can lead to melasma are Anti seizure medications, Anti psychotics, Anti malarials, Ami-odar-one, Cytotoxic drugs/ chemotherapeutics, Phe-ny-toin, NSAIDS (Non – steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), Tetracyclines.
- Thyroid disorders
- Hormone replacement therapy - Can lead to melasma due to changes in hormonal balance. Also, there are more chances of developing melasma in post menopausal women getting progesterone during hormone replacement therapy than estrogen.
- Pregnancy – blotchy spots of darker skin appear, a condition known as chloasma or mask of pregnancy.
Different options for treatments are available which depends on the suitability and type of pigmentation.
Melasma presentation can be of 3 different types
Types of Melasma
- Epidermal Melasma - characterized by well defined patches of dark brown color, which have symmetrical presentation on both sides of the face. They become pronounced under black light and respond to good medical therapy and chemical peeling treatment.
- Dermal Melasma – characterized by light brown to bluish patches. There is no change in color under black light. Respond to medical treatment is tougher
- Mixed Melasma – in this there is combination of bluish and dark brown patches, mixed marking under blue light. Partial response to treatment.
Treatment Options for Melasma
With such great variations in presentation, Melasma Treatment at our clinic is customized to each patient. Dr. Neha Sharma, the best dermatologist in Gurgaon, believes in first identifying the cause, eliminating the triggering factors, figuring out the type of melasma and then proceeding to the treatment which would suit your skin type
Different options for treatments are available which depends on the suitability and type of pigmentation.
There are available options such as:
- Chemical peels aim to uniform the skin.
- Laser technique by employing the use of lasers to treat vascularity and pigmented lesions. The laser procedure is performed by emitting controlled light energy to the treatment area.
- Instant Power radiance helps in faster resolution
- Active ingredients in the form of topical creams for pigment suppression.
Following precautions can go a long way to minimize recurrences:
- Limiting sun-exposure.
- Using a medicated sunscreen.
- Wearing a hat when outside.
