Understanding Melasma: Causes, Symptoms, & Risk Factors

Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by dark patches on the skin, primarily on the face. It usually appears as symmetrical patches of hyperpigmentation on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip.

Melasma is more prevalent in women than men and is often associated with pregnancy, oral contraceptive use, and hormonal changes.

Although melasma is not a dangerous or life-threatening condition, it can be a source of significant distress for those affected.

Causes of Melasma:

The exact cause of melasma is not known, but several factors are thought to contribute to its development. The primary factors that are associated with the onset of melasma include hormonal changes, sun exposure, and genetics.

1. Hormonal Changes:

Pregnancy is a common trigger for the onset of melasma, and it is often referred to as the “mask of pregnancy.” This is because the increased levels of hormones during pregnancy can stimulate the production of melanin, which leads to hyperpigmentation of the skin.

Hormonal changes associated with oral contraceptive use, hormone replacement therapy, and menopause can also contribute to the development of melasma.

2. Sun Exposure:

Sun exposure is a significant contributing factor to the development of melasma. UV radiation from the sun can trigger the production of melanin, leading to hyperpigmentation of the skin.

The risk of developing melasma is higher for people who live in areas with high levels of sun exposure and those who work outdoors.

3. Genetics

Genetics is also thought to play a role in the development of melasma. Additionally, individuals with darker skin tones are more susceptible to developing melasma.

Symptoms of Melasma:

The primary symptom of melasma is the appearance of dark patches on the skin, primarily on the face. The patches usually appear on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip, and they are often symmetrical.

The patches can vary in size and shape, and they can be tan, brown, or grey in colour. The patches do not usually cause any physical discomfort, but they can be a source of significant distress for those affected.

Risk Factors for Melasma:

Several factors increase the risk of developing melasma. These include:

1. Hormonal Changes:

As discussed earlier, hormonal changes, particularly in women, can increase the risk of developing melasma.

Pregnancy, oral contraceptive use, and hormonal changes associated with menopause and hormone replacement therapy can all contribute to the onset of melasma.

2. Sun Exposure:

Exposure to UV radiation from the sun can trigger the production of melanin, leading to hyperpigmentation of the skin.

Individuals who live in areas with high levels of sun exposure or those who work outdoors are at a higher risk of developing melasma.

3. Genetics:

People with a family history of melasma are more likely to develop the condition. Additionally, individuals with darker skin tones are more susceptible to developing melasma.

4. Gender:

Melasma is more prevalent in women than men.

5. Age:

Melasma is more common in people between the ages of 20 and 40.

6. Ethnicity:

Melasma is more common in individuals with darker skin tones, such as those of African, Asian, or Hispanic descent.

Treatment for Melasma:

Although melasma treatment  is not a dangerous or life-threatening condition, it can be a source of significant distress for those affected.

There are several treatment options available for managing melasma. The primary goal of treatment is to reduce the appearance of dark patches on the skin.