Exposure to the sun without sunscreen is one of the main contributors to many skin problems, including melasma (the emergence of dark spots on the face). In addition to the sun, there are other reasons that contribute to the appearance of these unpleasant spots. In this post, we reveal everything about melasma, check it out below:
What is melasma?
- Dermal Melasma: When melasma affects the dermis (the deeper layer of the skin) located between the epidermis and hypodermis, making the spots difficult to treat.
- Epidermal Melasma: In this case, melasma affects the epidermis (the outermost layer of the skin), it is a bit lighter and easier to treat.
- Mixed Melasma: These are spots that affect both the epidermis and the dermis.
There isn't a single cause that necessarily triggers the appearance of melasma, but rather several factors that can influence and cause the spots to appear. Some of these causes are:
Genetics: Unfortunately, this is a genetic predisposition. If someone in your family has melasma, it's possible that you might also experience it. Therefore, it's even more important to take care to prevent the appearance of these spots.
Sun exposure without sunscreen: As mentioned above, the sun is one of the factors that contribute to the emergence of dark spots on the skin. This is because UV rays increase melanin production, and if you're unprotected, melasma or other types of spots can emerge. To prevent this, always use sunscreen suitable for your skin.
Blue light: The light from cellphones, computers, or any other device/environment might seem harmless, right? But it's not – these lights are the cause of various skin conditions and spots like melasma. It penetrates deep into the skin and is harder to treat. For environments where you'll be exposed to blue light, apply sunscreen (preferably one with tint because they offer better protection).
Birth control pills: Birth control pills influence women's hormonal balance, and depending on the type used, they can even cause dark spots on the skin, especially for women who frequently expose themselves to the sun without sunscreen. If melasma appears on your skin due to birth control pills, discontinue their use immediately and consult your doctor.
Pregnancy hormones: During pregnancy, melasma can appear on the skin, referred to as chloasma gravidarum, due to increased estrogen and progesterone hormones. In this case, the spots can appear around the eyes, mouth, and other parts of the face and body. These spots might persist even after pregnancy. They can fade with daily sunscreen use and dermatological care.
Prevention
Even if you use lightening creams or undergo effective treatments, melasma is challenging to treat and might not completely disappear depending on the type. Therefore, the best way to avoid these spots is preventive care and taking necessary precautions to prevent the appearance of dark spots. Here are some habits you can adopt to prevent melasma:
Use sunscreen daily: This is an essential step. The sun is one of the causes of melasma, and it's crucial to use sunscreen daily to prevent spots. Ideally, the sunscreen should have at least SPF 30, and for exposure to blue light, a tinted sunscreen is best. Reapply sunscreen throughout the day.
Use birth control pills with the correct dosage: Consult your doctor about this, so they can recommend the appropriate contraceptive for you that won't affect your skin.
During pregnancy, use sunscreen and antioxidants: Pregnant women are more prone to melasma. After the third trimester, it's necessary to use sunscreen and antioxidants with medical guidance.
Treating melasma
There are still many questions about melasma treatments and how effective they are. Unfortunately, melasma has no cure, but depending on the type, it's possible to use active medications and procedures to lighten the spots. This should be discussed and agreed upon between you and your dermatologist. You need to undergo treatment and continue proper care at home using products with ingredients that reduce and lighten the spots. It's important to undertake this treatment during periods when you won't be exposed to the sun – winter is an excellent time to start. But be sure that this is not a quick procedure; it takes time and proper adherence.
Active ingredients that reduce melasma
With medical guidance and during treatment, it's also necessary to care for your skin at home to ensure effective results. For this, you'll need to use products that produce results and contain active ingredients. The main active ingredients you can find in dermocosmetics for melasma treatment are:
Azelaic Acid: A lightening agent that inhibits the enzyme tyrosinase. It's safer in terms of long-term adverse effects.
In addition to these acids, vitamin C, white clay, and hydroquinone are excellent for combating dark spots on the skin. But remember to use these only after medical guidance.
Melasma requires effort to manage, and the best way to deal with it is prevention. Always use sunscreen, avoid excessive sun exposure, and adopt good habits to minimize the chances of these spots appearing on your skin.
Do you have melasma? Have you undergone any treatment? Share in the comments!
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