The name comes from melas, the Greek word for black, or cholas, from the word green-ish. Young women with darker skin complexion are more prone to developing melasma.
But melasma can develop at any stage of your life. Melasma is also referred to as 'mask of pregnancy', because dark patches that appear on the nose, cheekbones and jaws are prevalent while women are expecting.
Treatments of melasma include topical, oral, procedural and combination treatments. Topical treatments for melasma include Iron oxide, Hydroquinone, Azelaic acid, Kojic acid, Tretinoin, Corticosteroids, Ascorbic acid and niacinamide. Hydroquinone HQ , also known as dihydroxybenzene, is a hydroxy phenolic compound. Hydroquinone functions by lightening the skin. It is available in the form of a cream, lotion, gel or liquid.
Hydroquinone is found in over-the-counter formulas, but higher strength versions can only be obtained through a prescription. Azelaic acid inhibits the synthesis of hyperactive melanocytes, and has an antityrosinase activity. Free radicals are known to contribute to hyperpigmentation and azelaic acid functions by reducing free radical production.
Kojic acid 5-hydroxyhydroxymethylpyrone is a naturally occurring, hydrophilic fungal product. It is derived from certain species of Acetobacter, Aspergillus, and Penicillium.
It acts by inhibiting the production of free tyrosinase; it is also a potent antioxidant. Tretinoin is a Retinoid that affects multiple steps in the melanization pathway. It promotes the rapid loss of pigment. Corticosteroids decrease the epidermal turnover and thus, may have a depigmenting effect.
Corticosteroids have been combined with other agents in the treatment of melasma for years. They lead to epidermal atrophy thinning and flattening of the epidermis. Ascorbic acid has antioxidant properties. It affects melanogenesis by preventing free-radical production and absorption of ultraviolet radiation. Because it is almost devoid of side effects, it could be used alone or in combination therapy. They often affect the uniformity and radiance of your skin indicating that your skin has started ageing.
Dark spots are preludes for wrinkles and can strike any woman regardless of the skin type or color. Most women find dark spots uncomfortable living with and start covering them using a makeup or clothing. There are several factors that lead to dark spot including genetics, pregnancy, UV light and skin diseases among others. Between the ages of 20 and 50 , hormonal variances caused by stress, contraceptive pills, pregnancies, and menopause can also cause dark spots.
Extreme exposure to sun light from sun baking accounts for some dark spots at later stages in life. Below the age of 20, acne can cause dark spots due to scarring and red marks left by the infection. These consist of medications that make your skin more sensitive without necessarily getting exposed to sunlight. Use of such medications in the treatment of other underlying medical conditions promotes the appearance of dark spots at any area of your skin. They include:. The presence of dark spots should not mark the end of an enjoyable life to remain attractive all the time.
There are several home remedies and readily available beauty products that will eliminate any notable mark on your skin and ensure it remains healthy, soft and supple throughout. With a spotless skin, you will be confident to go about with your normal business in life with the worry uneven skin color. Talk online now with a doctor and get fast 1-on-1 answers from the comfort of your couch. Note: Results may vary about any product effectiveness.
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Albinism is a genetic disorder, meaning that a person inherits a faulty gene from one or both of their parents. Undiagnosed or untreated diabetes can also cause changes in the skin, such as:. If discolored skin patches appear suddenly and then disappear, there may be a simple explanation.
If a new patch of discolored skin appears and does not go away, it is best to see a doctor. It is also important to seek medical attention if a mole changes size, shape, or texture.
The doctor may examine the affected skin under a lamp. They may also need to carry out further tests, such as blood tests and a skin biopsy. The skin biopsy will involve the doctor taking a small sample of skin and examining it under a microscope. If a person has an underlying health condition, the doctor will recommend the best course of treatment for that condition. Treating the underlying condition often resolves any associated skin problems. If the underlying cause is skin cancer, it is vital that the person has treatment as soon as possible.
Birthmarks and skin pigmentation disorders do not usually require treatment. However, some people may wish to have treatment for cosmetic reasons. Treatment options include laser treatment, chemical peels , and topical creams. Lemon juice or castor oil may also help to reduce the appearance of discolored skin patches. Alternatively, people can use makeup to camouflage the affected skin.
However, sun protection may reduce the risk of melasma, sunburn, and skin cancer. People can protect themselves from the sun by:. There are many possible causes of discolored skin patches.
Some causes, such as birthmarks, are not harmful and may not require treatment. Others, such as skin cancer and cyanosis, are likely to require immediate treatment.
It is essential to see a doctor if any new discolored patches of skin appear or if existing moles change in any way. This helps to make early diagnosis and treatment possible, which often leads to a better outlook.
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