Melasma is a common skin problem that causes brown to gray-brown patches, usually on the face. Most people get it on their cheeks, bridge of their nose, forehead, chin, and above their upper lip. It also can appear on other parts of the body that get lots of sun, such as the forearms and neck.    

 
One of the most common treatments for Melasma is sun protection. This means wearing sunscreen every day and reapplying the sunscreen every 2 hours. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat when you are outside is also recommended. Sunscreen alone may not give you the protection you need.

Women are far more likely to get Melasma than men. It is so common during pregnancy that Melasma is sometimes called "the mask of pregnancy."  

 

What causes Melasma is not yet clear. It likely

 occurs when the color-making cells in the skin (melanocytes) produce too much color. People with darker skin are more prone to Melasma because they have more active melanocytes than people with light skin  .

• Sun exposure


• A change in hormones

Melasma can fade on its own. This usually happens when a trigger, such as a pregnancy or birth control pills, causes the Melasma. When a woman delivers her baby or stops taking the birth control pills, Melasma can fade.

 

Treatments: 

 

• Hydroquinone Products: This prescription medicine is a common first treatment for Melasma. Products like Clear, Blender and C-Clarifying Serum are applied topically to lighten the skin.

• Non-Hydroquinone Products: There are products available that do not have hydroquinone, such as Lytera 2.0, Even Up, MelanoLyte, Brightening Complex. If you are pregnant, nursing or just want an alternative to hydroquinone these options are available.
  

• Tretinoin: To enhance skin lightening, our providers can prescribe Tretinoin. This product exfoliates the skin, helping the pigmented skin to fade quicker.


• Procedures: Chemical peel, Microdermabrasion, Microneedling, laser treatment, or a light-based procedure can help reduce the appearance of melasma. Please call our office if you are interested in discussing any of these procedures.