Melasma is a relatively common skin condition characterized by the formation of pigmented spots that are sometimes significantly darker than the surrounding skin tone. These discolorations, which primarily affect women, most often appear on the face. Although melasma is not a disease and therefore completely harmless, many sufferers perceive it as a cosmetic flaw. However, burying your head in the sand is not advisable, as there are several things you can do about it.
We'll tell you more.
Causes and frequency
For a long time, melasma (often also called melasma in German) was referred to as the "mask of pregnancy" because this skin condition often occurs in pregnant women, but then subsides after pregnancy. Generally, about 90% of women are affected, with the risk of developing melasma increasing significantly with a darker skin tone.
Besides genetic factors, a hormonal imbalance is considered the primary cause of melasma. Taking birth control pills is therefore just as much a risk factor as stress or certain hormonal disorders (e.g., thyroid dysfunction).
UV rays can also promote the formation of melasma.
diagnosis
Dark spots and discolorations on the face, usually appearing symmetrically on both cheeks and sometimes also on the forehead, nose, and chin, are indicative of melasma. Other areas of the body frequently exposed to the sun may also show such pigmented spots. They are painless and completely harmless. If you are unsure, a visual examination by a dermatologist can differentiate melasma from other skin problems and diseases.
What can be done about melasma?
Since melasma is not a disease, doctors do not prescribe treatment. However, the dark spots on the face can significantly impact self-confidence, which is why most affected women seek effective ways to alleviate them.
First and foremost, it's important to avoid direct sunlight as much as possible, since this further stimulates pigmentation. Adequate sun protection with at least SPF 30 is therefore essential. However, there are now a number of treatments available that guarantee a significant improvement in melasma:
- Chemical peels or dermabrasion/microdermabrasion: These cosmetic treatments remove the top layer of skin. This can lead to temporary improvement, but must be repeated at regular intervals.
We also recommend paying attention to the following ingredients in your daily skincare routine: Retinol ( HYPER G[L]O Serum ), Niacinamide, Bisabolol ( [CUP]U RAW ), Acetyl Glucosamine (HIGHKEY RESET Mask ), and Alpha Hydroxy Acids ( [W]ASH AWAY Cleanser ). All of these can help to gradually remove the hyperpigmented layer and reveal a more even complexion.
Laser treatment can also provide relief. However, the treatment should be performed by an experienced doctor.
The use of birth control pills should be reconsidered in consultation with the treating physician if they exacerbate the problem. However, the most important aspect of alleviating melasma is undoubtedly skincare, as Unrefined Riches founder Adelaide Wolters knows. "I myself suffer from melasma. This prompted me to research and ultimately develop my own skincare products," says Wolters. The goal was, and still is, to create a skincare line for different skin types and tones that provides relief from blemishes and hyperpigmentation, among other things.
