such as menopause or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
This is because melasma is directly linked to fluctuating higher than normal levels of estrogen and progesterone. Men can also get melasma, but it is very uncommon - 90%+ of melasma cases occur in women. Thyroid disease and stress may also cause melasma as these conditions can lead to increased production of MSH (melanocyte stimulating hormone). Melanocytes are specialized cells in the skin that produce melanin - the pigment which is in produced in overabundance in melasma and other forms of hyperpigmentation finally melasma free.
Melasma is a particular form of hyperpigmentation primarily affecting the central portion of the face; less commonly, the cheeks, the jawlinerednessand even the forearms may be involved. No one has ever determined why this unique distribution pattern occurs. The hyperpigmentation of melasma is microscopically characterized by a higher thantreatmentusual number of melanocytes in the affected areas.
These melanocytes are also carrying an abnormally high amount of dark melanin pigment (melanosomes) and have an increased number of connecting "bridges" (called "dendrites") with which they can "inject" dye into the surrounding skin cells and skin tissues. These cellular characteristics are somewhat unique to melasma and not seen to the same degree in other forms of hyperpigmentation such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (a hyperpigmentation condition which can occur e.g. after laser treatments).
The hyperpigmentation of melasma is also deeper in the skin tissue (more pigments are deposited in the deeper layers than in the superficial layers) than is seen with other kinds of pigment problems. Melasma is also associated with a general increase in capillary vascularity often lending an accompanying reddish hue to the affected area.
UV radiation is probably the most potent stimulator of melanin synthesis that there is. Adequately protecting the face and judicious use of sunblock are extremely important if there is the slightest suggestion of the appearance of melasma.
Melasma is a particular form of hyperpigmentation primarily affecting the central portion of the face; less commonly, the cheeks, the jawlinerednessand even the forearms may be involved. No one has ever determined why this unique distribution pattern occurs. The hyperpigmentation of melasma is microscopically characterized by a higher thantreatmentusual number of melanocytes in the affected areas.
These melanocytes are also carrying an abnormally high amount of dark melanin pigment (melanosomes) and have an increased number of connecting "bridges" (called "dendrites") with which they can "inject" dye into the surrounding skin cells and skin tissues. These cellular characteristics are somewhat unique to melasma and not seen to the same degree in other forms of hyperpigmentation such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (a hyperpigmentation condition which can occur e.g. after laser treatments).
The hyperpigmentation of melasma is also deeper in the skin tissue (more pigments are deposited in the deeper layers than in the superficial layers) than is seen with other kinds of pigment problems. Melasma is also associated with a general increase in capillary vascularity often lending an accompanying reddish hue to the affected area.
UV radiation is probably the most potent stimulator of melanin synthesis that there is. Adequately protecting the face and judicious use of sunblock are extremely important if there is the slightest suggestion of the appearance of melasma.
In the 6 - 12 months following labor and delivery or with the stopping of any supplemental hormones, melasma most often disappears on its own. Once again, sunblock use during this time is critical. UV radiation perpetuates the stimulation of melanocyte activity and melanin production. This may turn some or all of the pigmentations darker and possibly permanent.
Treatment for melasma that does not show signs of regressing spontaneously involves some basic concepts. Again, the most important of these is sunblock use and the avoiding of tanning rays. Consistent and regular use of a proper high-quality sunblock, wearing a UV blocking hat and using an umbrella when at the beach are all excellent strategies.
Consult with your physician expert in cosmetic skin care to develop a cohesive treatment plan. Topical anti-inflammatory agents (e.g. steroids) can help - minimizing any existing inflammation and irritation is key to a quicker and more definitive resolution. Minimizing any inflammation or irritation to the skin in general is similarly wise. Gentle washing, and stopping the use of any skin care products or fragrances that are irritating is helpful.
Azeleic acid, lactic acid, vitamin c, retinoids, and steroids have all been used with success in treating melasma, usually in combination therapy. Hydroquinone has also been very successful, but there are growing concerns about absorption, carcinogenicity, and side effects. Any therapy which produces too much irritation may be counterproductive; this is often also a potential problem with hydroquinone, and with the retinoids as well acv for melasma.
Treatment for melasma that does not show signs of regressing spontaneously involves some basic concepts. Again, the most important of these is sunblock use and the avoiding of tanning rays. Consistent and regular use of a proper high-quality sunblock, wearing a UV blocking hat and using an umbrella when at the beach are all excellent strategies.
Consult with your physician expert in cosmetic skin care to develop a cohesive treatment plan. Topical anti-inflammatory agents (e.g. steroids) can help - minimizing any existing inflammation and irritation is key to a quicker and more definitive resolution. Minimizing any inflammation or irritation to the skin in general is similarly wise. Gentle washing, and stopping the use of any skin care products or fragrances that are irritating is helpful.
Azeleic acid, lactic acid, vitamin c, retinoids, and steroids have all been used with success in treating melasma, usually in combination therapy. Hydroquinone has also been very successful, but there are growing concerns about absorption, carcinogenicity, and side effects. Any therapy which produces too much irritation may be counterproductive; this is often also a potential problem with hydroquinone, and with the retinoids as well acv for melasma.