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Melasma is a dark skin discoloration that appears on sun-exposed areas of the face.
Alternative NamesChloasma; Mask of pregnancy; Pregnancy mask
Causes, incidence, and risk factorsMelasma is a very common skin disorder. Though it can affect anyone, young women with brownish skin tones are at greatest risk.
Melasma is often associated with the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. It is especially common in pregnant women, women who are taking Birth Control pills (oral contraceptives) and women taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) during menopause.
Sun exposure is also a strong risk factor for melasma. The condition is particularly common in tropical climates.
SymptomsMelasma doesn't cause any other symptoms besides skin discoloration but may be of great cosmetic concern.
A uniform brown color is usually seen over the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip. It is most often symmetrical (matching on both sides of the face).
Signs and testsYour health care provider can usually diagnose melasma based upon the appearance of your skin. A closer examination using a Wood's lamp may help guide your treatment.
TreatmentCreams containing a combination of tretinoin, kojic acid, and azelaic acid have been shown to improve the appearance of melasma. Occasionally, your doctor may recommend chemical peels or topical steroid creams. In severe cases, laser treatments can be used to remove the dark pigment.
Avoiding the sun and using sunscreen are key to preventing melasma.
Expectations (prognosis)Melasma often fades over several months after stopping birth control pills or HRT, or after delivering a child. It may return with additional pregnancies or use of these medications.
Calling your health care providerCall your health care provider if you have persistent darkening of your face.
PreventionDaily sunscreen use not only helps prevent melasma but is crucial in the prevention of skin cancer and wrinkles.
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When was Starksia melasma created?
Starksia melasma was created in 2003.
How do you treat melasma at home?
apple cider vinegar is the best cure for melasma
What is Melasma?
Hello, I see you are asking "What is melasma?" Melasma is a skin condition characterized by brown or blue-gray patches or freckle-like spots. It's often called the “mask of pregnancy.” Melasma happens because of overproduction of the cells that make the color of your skin. It is common, harmless and some treatments may help. For more information, you can visit this URL - skincarehealthcenter. com/condition/melasma/c/27214
How do you treat melasma?
Melasma is treated with a variety of skin creams such as hydroquinone, tretinoin, and corticosteroids. It can also be treated with chemical peels, microdermabrasion, and dermabrasion.
What creams would be helpful to control or treat melasma?
The exact causes are unknown, but there are genetic factors at work, and melasma is made worse by exposure to sunlight. It is very important for people with melasma to use sunscreen. There is no real cure for melasma at the moment-- just management. Creams that contain lightening agents (for example hydroquinone, kojic acid, and retinoids) may be helpful in treating melasma, as may chemical peels or laser therapy. Azeleic acid may help control but not cure melasma. It has a skin brightening affect that may help fade dark marks but it is not generally the first line treatment.
What are the symptoms of Melasma?
The most common symptoms of Melasma are appearance of brown and gray brown patches on the face. Some people also get these patches on the neck and arms.
Does alcohol cause melasma?
I believe it does. After three years of drinking white wine excessively(daily) when prior to barely drink. melasma started to come out. Even with my two pregnancies -I NEVER had melasma. As I got more depressed with my skin-I drank even more and the melasma got worse!!! My melasma is severe-it has affected my confidence greatly. I have wearing all that make up. I just stare at people and i am amazed at how perfect their skin looks. I am just now realizing the connection between the white wine and melasma(I also have adult acne) which i never had(not even as a teenager) Well, goodbye wine-hello healthy skin!
Does topical estrogen cream aggravate melasma?
Yes, it can.
What are common names of chloasma?
mask of pregnancy, melasma
Is there a birth control pill that does not cause melasma?
The progestin-only pills are less likely to cause melasma. The copper IUD is non-hormonal, and may be another option for you.
Does melasma go away?
Creams containing tretinoin, kojic acid, and azelaic acid have been shown to improve the appearance of melasma. Occasionally, your doctor may recommend chemical peels or topical steroid creams. In severe cases, laser treatments can be used to remove the dark pigment. Avoiding the sun and using sunscreen are key to preventing melasma. Often when birth control, menapausal supplemental hormones, or pregnancy resolve, it fades away naturally.
What or the mask of pregnancy is a pigmentation disorder characterized by brownish spots on the face?
Chloasma known as melasma or mask of pregnancy
