What Causes Melasma?

Melasma is a skin condition that causes brownish skin patches on the face or other parts of your body. There are different ways to treat this condition depending on how severe it is.

Does Melasma Go Away on Its Own?

Melasma goes away on its own in some cases, such as when a hormonal change triggers it. For example, you might have melasma that fades on its own after childbirth if you developed this condition during pregnancy. When melasma does not go away on its own, there are ways to treat it. 

What Is the Best Treatment for Melasma?

The best treatment for melasma depends on certain factors, such as the severity of your condition. Medications, such as hydroquinone, corticosteroids or other topical medicated creams, are sometimes used to treat melasma. Other treatment options are available, such as certain procedures, if the medication does not work. 

Does Melasma Get Worse?

Melasma can get worse for some people. This skin condition can also last for months or years without treatment. If you have melasma that is getting worse or melasma that isn’t going away, you should see a doctor about treatment options. 

Does Stress Cause Melasma?

The exact cause of melasma isn’t fully understood. However, stress is not usually considered a trigger for this skin condition. You might have melasma due to sun exposure, hormonal changes or certain skincare products. 

Does Thyroid Disease Cause Melasma?

Hormonal changes that occur with thyroid disease could trigger melasma in some people. If you are being treated for thyroid disease or if you suspect that you might have it, you should see a doctor for proper care to lighten melasma. 

Is Melasma an Autoimmune Disease?

Melasma is not considered an autoimmune disease. A possible cause of this skin condition is having cells produce higher amounts of color or pigmentation than usual. Those who have darker skin have a higher risk of having melasma. 

What Medications Cause Melasma?

Certain medications that affect hormonal levels, such as birth control pills, could trigger melasma. If you take any medications that are associated with hormonal changes, this skin condition might lighten when you no longer take them. You should see a doctor if you have melasma from hormonal medications so that you can get proper treatment. 

Does IPL Treat Melasma?

Intense pulsed light (IPL) can be used to treat melasma. This treatment involves the use of light wavelengths to minimize the appearance of brownish spots on the skin. If you are considered a good candidate for IPL, this type of treatment might be effective for lightening melasma patches. 

Can Melasma Turn Into Cancer?

Melasma is considered a harmless skin condition. If you have any skin changes that concern you, a doctor can do a skin biopsy to diagnose a skin condition.

How Do You Stop Melasma from Spreading?

Wearing sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat when you are outdoors can help lower the risk of having melasma spread. You should get into the habit of doing this in order to protect your skin from damage. 

To learn more, make an appointment today with the Hollywood Dermatology. Our dermatologists deliver compassionate care in our state-of-the-art center and will recommend the best treatments to help you reach your skincare goals.