Melasma

What is Melasma?

Melasma is a skin condition that is frequently seen in women and appears as irregularly circumscribed dark colored spots on sun exposed areas of the skin. Melasma is usually observed on the cheeks, nose, upper lip and forehead. According to the skin layer where the dark pigment that gives color to the skin is located, melasma is divided into superficial, deep or mixed types where both are found together. While superficial melasma may respond faster to treatment, treatment of deep melasma requires a lot of patience.

Why Does Melasma Occur?

Although the actual cause of melasma is unknown, it occurs as a result of excessive production of melanin (the substance that gives color to the skin) by cells called melanocytes that give color to the skin. Melasma is observed more frequently in individuals with genetic predisposition, those with melasma in the family, those who are exposed to sunlight too intensely, after pregnancy, those with thyroid diseases, those who use hormone-containing drugs such as birth control pills. Studies have shown that signs of skin aging are also observed with an increase in the skin areas where melasma is present. In other words, melasma can also be considered as an accelerated skin aging.
Cosmetic products such as cosmetic products, some make-up materials, cologne, perfumes, soaps and moisturizers can also cause similar stains, especially following contact with the sun, in people with a predisposition.