Melasma

Melasma occurs when melanocytes (the cells responsible for producing pigment or melanin) become overactive, leading to an overproduction of melanin in localized areas. The exact cause is not fully understood, but several factors can trigger or exacerbate melasma:

1. Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) light triggers melanin production, which can lead to hyperpigmentation in susceptible individuals.
2. Hormonal Changes: Melasma is often associated with hormonal changes, which is why it frequently occurs during pregnancy (a condition known as the “mask of pregnancy”) or when taking birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
3. Genetics: A family history of melasma may increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
4. Certain Medications: Some medications, including oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy, can trigger melasma.
5. Cosmetic Products: Harsh skincare products or those that irritate the skin can sometimes make melasma worse.
6. Pregnancy: Pregnancy-related melasma is known as chloasma and is typically temporary, although it can persist even after childbirth.

Symptoms:

• Brown or grayish-brown patches: These are typically symmetrical and appear on sun-exposed areas of the face (forehead, cheeks, bridge of the nose, and upper lip).
• Changes in skin pigmentation: The skin may appear uneven or blotchy in texture.

Risk Factors:

• Gender: Women are much more likely to develop melasma than men. This is largely due to hormonal influences.
• Age: While it can occur at any age, melasma is more common in individuals between the ages of 20 and 40.
• Skin Type: People with darker skin types (Fitzpatrick skin types III to VI) are more prone to melasma because they have more melanin-producing cells.