“Melasma is an acquired pigmentary disorder occurring mainly in women of all races and ethnicities but most prominently affecting higher Fitzpatrick phototypes – IV-VI,” says Chiza Westcarr, Global Clinical Education and Development Manager of Advanced Skin Technology.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!“While its cause is unknown, there are several notable factors associated with Melasma. There is a link to elevated estrogen levels, resulting in melasma developing during pregnancy, lactation and with the use of oral contraceptives and HRT. UV exposure is also a trigger and exacerbates existing melasma.”
While it mainly affects women, it’s possible for men to get melasma too.
“10% of men with low testosterone levels have also been implicated. Certain medications, scented soaps, toiletries and cosmetics can cause a phototoxic reaction resulting in hyperpigmentation due to the association of Melasma with UV exposure, the most avoidable risk factor,” continues Westcarr.
Melasma isn’t preventable, but there are some in-clinic treatments and product solutions that can improve the situation over time.
“Physicians commonly recommend prescription topicals such as hydroquinone, tretinoin and a range of hydroxy acids, while there are a host of cosmeceuticals available in both skin clinics and physicians’ rooms that have proven extremely effective.”
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See a huge difference in skintone after 12 weeks of using this product daily. Try SkinMedica Lytera Brightening Complex, $198
Say goodbye to freckles, hormonal marks and blotchy skin with a gentle serum. Try Aspect Pigment Punch, $121
