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They are brown spots that appear later on the sun-exposed areas of the skin.

What is Melasma?

Melasma; It is a skin disease that manifests itself in the form of brown spots that appear later on the sun-exposed areas of the skin. The one that occurs during pregnancy is called chloasma. Usually both sides of the face are affected. It is most commonly seen on the cheeks, nose, forehead and lips.

Although melasma is a disease mostly seen in women (90%), it can rarely be seen in men. Those with darker skin tones are at higher risk of being seen.

Are there different types of melasma?

Melasma is divided into superficial, deep or both (mixed) types where the pigments are located. The deep type of melasma has a dark brown-bluish color and its borders are unclear, while the superficial melasma lesions are brown and sharply circumscribed. Mixed types can be brown gray in color. Deeply located ones respond more difficult to treatment, while superficial ones respond better to treatment.

How is melasma diagnosed?

Melasma is a condition that is often easily diagnosed by examination. In addition to the examination, your dermatologist may want to look at your spots with a light called a Wood's lamp. This light can give you an idea of whether your melasma is located superficially or more deeply.

What should people with melasma pay attention to?

In people with melasma, the sun's rays cause these spots to darken. Therefore, sun protection is the basis of treatment. Sunscreens should contain both UVA and UVB protection. UVA can also pass through glass. Therefore, even if you do not go out, sunscreen should be applied regularly all day. It should also be known that no protector provides complete protection. For this reason, you should make it a habit to avoid the sun and take additional precautions such as wide-brimmed hats, glasses and an umbrella to increase sun protection.

What are the causes of melasma?

Although the actual cause of melasma is unknown, it occurs as a result of the production of excessive amounts of melanin (the substance that gives color to the skin) by cells called melanocytes, which give color to the skin. Causes of formation;

  • familial predisposition
  • Sun (Ultraviolet) rays
  • Pregnancy
  • Use of birth control pills - Melasma is more common in those taking birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy. Hormones make the color cells work more.
  • Cosmetic products - Cosmetic products such as some make-up materials, cologne, perfumes, soaps and moisturizers can also cause such staining, especially after exposure to the sun.

In the summer months, exacerbation of melasma is typical. This shows the effect of sun rays in the emergence of the disease. UV rays from the sun can activate pigment-producing cells in the skin. People with dark skin have more active pigment cells than people with fair skin.

 

How is melasma treated?

Melasma treatment is a long-term process that requires patience for both the patient and the physician. In this process, it should be known that there may be new attacks, especially in the summer months. The location of the stain is important in the treatment of melasma. In fair-skinned people, the treatment can sometimes completely remove the spots, but there is a possibility of recurrence. Dark-skinned people are less likely to be completely cured and spots are more likely to recur. Light-skinned people can see results within weeks, while dark-skinned people may require months of treatment. Sun protection is the basis of treatment. In addition, one or more of the stain creams (hydroquinone, tretinoin and corticosteroid combination, azelaic acid, kojic acid-containing products), chemical peels, laser treatments that are suitable for your skin and spots may be recommended by your doctor. Your dermatologist will recommend the appropriate treatment for you.

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Mersin Specialist Doctor Ayşegül Güney Dermatology Clinic

Our site has been prepared within the scope of publicity and announcement for information purposes in accordance with the 29th article of the Ministry of Health dated 15/2/2008 and numbered 26788 regulation. The information does not replace a doctor's diagnosis or examination. Please consult your doctor about your illness.