Hey there! Let's talk about melasma - the pesky skin condition that can cause dark patches on your face. Don't worry, you're not alone - lots of people struggle with melasma, especially women between the ages of 20 and 40.
What is Melasma?
Melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation that causes certain areas of the skin to become darker than the surrounding skin. This condition is commonly observed on the cheeks, forehead, nose, chin, and upper lip - the parts of the face that are exposed to the sun the most.
During pregnancy, most women experience melasma, which is characterised by the formation of dark blackish or brownish-greyish patches on the face.
Melasma is a harmless skin disease that happens due to the overproduction of cells that reflect your skin colour. These freckles fade away with time and can be managed & treated in different ways.
What causes melasma?
Encountering melasma during pregnancy is quite natural for 50% of women (as of AAD).
Although melasma is often associated with hormonal changes, external factors like sun exposure, heat, or skin trauma can also trigger it. These dark spots get worse during the summer as the skin is more likely to be exposed to sunlight.
Therefore, it's crucial to care for your skin and shield it from the sun's harmful rays.
One more reason for melasma or the darkness of your skin is irritation from skincare products and scented soaps
Which skin type is more prone to melasma?
Now, I know what you're thinking - "But wait, I have naturally tan or brown skin, am I doomed to live with melasma forever?" The answer is no! With a little patience and some TLC, you can reduce the appearance of your melasma and improve the overall health of your skin.
How do I manage Melasma?
Here's a simple routine that can help:
In the morning, use an Advanced Pigmentation Serum to help reduce dark spots and even out your skin tone.
This serum’s unique formula combines the clinically proven 5% Sulforaphane Complex with 3% Tranexamic Acid, 2% Alpha Arbutin, 5% Niacinamide, and Acetyl Glucosamine to create a potent blend of five active ingredients that work together to combat pigmentation, melasma and discolouration.
Then, in the evening, apply a 2% Granactive retinoid serum to encourage cell turnover and promote healthy, glowing skin.
By treating melasma patches with corticosteroids and tretinoin, you will notice a remarkably fast improvement.
Finish off with a Squalane Ceramide Moisturiser to lock in hydration and keep your skin looking plump and youthful.
This routine not only reduces melasma but also works on age spots & improves skin barrier health.
And don't forget the most important step - always, always, always use sunscreen! This will help protect your skin from further damage and prevent your melasma from getting worse.
So, there you have it - a few simple steps you can take to help manage your melasma and feel more confident in your skin. Remember, you're not alone in this - lots of people struggle with skin issues, and there's no shame in seeking treatment or taking steps to care for yourself. You deserve to feel beautiful inside and out!
Sources:
1.https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/color-problems/melasma#treatment
2.https://www.asds.net/Skin-Experts/Skin-Conditions/Melasma
3.https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/color-problems/melasma#symptoms
4.https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/color-problems/melasma#causes
5.http://skinofcolorsociety.org/dermatology-education/1406-2/
5.http://skinofcolorsociety.org/dermatology-education/1406-2/
