Melasma
What is Melasma?
Melasma is a very common problem in women.
Pigmented patches appear on the face for a variety of reasons, typically during or following pregnancy or as a side effect of the birth control pill. It is more common in those who tan well or who have darker skin, rather than fairer skin types.
WHAT CAUSES MELASMA?
There can be more than one cause for Melasma. Chronic sun exposure and sun damage is an important and avoidable risk factor. Pregnancy can sometimes cause it, as can the use of female hormones oestrogen and progesterone, usually in the form of birth control pills or intrauterine or implanted contraceptive devices.
How is Melasma treated?
Melasma is often a chronic condition that some women can be prone to until menopause, following which the tendency to it can decrease markedly. The good news is it can usually be treated reasonably well and a variety of treatment options exist.
Constant day-in, day-out strict sun avoidance is recommended for women who are serious about improving Melasma. Topical creams based around the ingredient Hydroquinone can be very helpful and sometimes other ingredients can be used in the cream to increase its effectiveness.
Lasers can sometimes improve the appearance of melasma. Whilst Dr Tucker doesn’t perform laser treatments himself, if appropriate he can refer you to a fully qualified Doctor who does.