Melasma (aka. the mask of pregnancy) is a skin condition that causes pigmentation on your body. This discolouration most often occurs on the face, spanning the range of light brown, dark brown, and blue-grey spots. It may appear as mid-sized freckles, large spots, or patches. Melasma is pain and inflammation-free and has no side effects other than facial pigmentation. Pigmentation is challenging to cover up with makeup, which may leave you searching for aesthetic treatment options.
Melasma is the overproduction of the cells that make your skin. It’s most common between the ages of 20 and 40 and may worsen during perimenopause or andropause.
While medically harmless, aesthetic treatments can even out your skin tone.
Approximately 90% of those diagnosed with melasma are women. This is linked to women’s higher levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone.
When estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate, it can stimulate the production of melanin. This is why facial hyperpigmentation is more common during pregnancy, while on birth control, and during perimenopause and andropause.
Our year-round sun leaves us at a higher risk for UV-related skin conditions, including melasma. Take a proactive and reactive approach to pigmentation by applying sunscreen daily, wearing hats, and seeking shade. Also, reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours when in direct sunlight, at least every 4 hours when in indirect sunlight.
If you have a family history of pigmentation, you may be at a higher risk.
The darker your skin is naturally, the more you’re at risk for melasma.
Certain medications, cosmetics, skincare products, chronic stress, and thyroid dysfunction may trigger an overproduction of melanin.
Regardless of the cause, Haven Aesthetic Centre offers a range of treatment options to accelerate the rate at which your melasma fades. We may not be able to fade your pigmentation completely, but we can minimize its appearance—leaving you more confident with your skin!
