Melasma is a common skin problem which involves formation of brown to grey brown patches especially on the face. The facial areas which commonly are a victim of these patches are the forehead, bridge of the nose, cheeks, chin and the upper lip. These patches also develop on parts of the body which are constantly exposed to the sun.
Causes
The exact cause not known. It occurs more in women >>men due to hormonal changes which occur during pregnancy. Birth control pills & hormonal therapy can also trigger melasma. Further, stress and sun exposure aggregates to raise the problem.
Treatment
Topical medications
Hydroquinone – It is the most common way of treating melama
Tretinoin and corticosteroid – It reduces the melanin content . Frequently, a triple combination cream (klingman regime)containing hydroquinone, tretinoin and corticosteroid is used for treatment of melasma for a limited period of time.
Other topical creams may contain arbutin, kojic acid , glycolic acid and lactic acid etc.
Procedures
Procedures like chemical peels, microdermabrasions and lasers can also be used in certain patients.
Sunscreen
A broad spectrum sunscreen is always recommended along with these treatments as sun exposure is common worsening factor for melasma.
Outcome
Taking proper consultation from a dermatologist, can help patients in curing melasma.
Patience and taking proper treatment are the key factors to its cure since the patches don’t go off that easy. It is important to follow dermatologist’s advice to attain maximum benefits from the treatment. Once cured, the patient needs to undergo maintenance therapy to avoid any future chances of its reoccurrence