Question 1

what is melasma?

Accepted Answer

Increased pigment: The is an increase in pigment in different layers of the skin. It can be superficilal, deep , or a combination. It occurs associated with pregnancy amd in certain ethnic groups such as hispanics, people of mediterranean descent. Common areas are on the upper lip, cheeks, and forehead. Various bleaching creams containing hydroquinone, kojic acid, testimon, or coffeberry can lighten the melasma.

Question 2

what causes melasma?

Accepted Answer

Overactive pigment: Certain people will develop extra pigment on the face when exposed to sun or after pregnancy. The melanocytes produce and disperse extra pigment in the skin.

Question 3

how can i treat melasma?

Accepted Answer

Bleaching agents: Avoidance of sun is utmost importance and sunscreen as the sun worsens melasma.  Bleaching creams, retin-a, combinations of them, chemical peels and laser are all possible treatment.

Question 4

why do women get melasma?

Accepted Answer

Unknown: We still do not know why some women who are pregnant get melasma.

Question 5

what does melasma look like?

Accepted Answer

Lacy pigmentation: Melanoma is most often seen on the cheeks, forehead and around the mouth. It is a lacy patchy brown pigment that gets dark in the sun.

Question 6

does melasma go away on its own?

Accepted Answer

May lighten some: Melasma is a discoloration of the skin that comes from a combination of hormonal fluctuations and sun exposure.  It is extremely frustrating because it can be faded with fading creams, sun screen, sun shielding, and chemical peels, but it will recur with minimal sun exposure.  It sometimes lightens without treatment over time if it occurs during pregnancy.

Question 7

what are the symptoms of melasma?

Accepted Answer

None: Melasma is not itchy as it is not inflammatory, and not a result of a rash.

Question 8

how is the diagnosis of melasma made?

Accepted Answer

Examination: The increased color and distribution are the criteria for melasma. A special ultraviolet light, woods lamp, can help determine the depth of the pigment. Deeper pigment is more difficult but not impossible to treat. Blood tests or skin biopsy are not necessary for the diagnosis.

Question 9

what is the best way to treat melasma?

Accepted Answer

See a dermatologist!: If it is the result of a recent pregnancy, it may fade significantly or disappear on its own.  Otherwise, a dermatologist can offer treatments like bleaching creams, chemical peels, or even laser treatment in some cases. It is very important to avoid sun exposure and use effective sunscreens at all times!

Question 10

is mylocort recommended to treat melasma?

Accepted Answer

: I do not think this preparation is strong enough for treating melasma by itself.

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Doctor answers about:

Melasma

A member asked:

What is melasma?

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What causes melasma?

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How can i treat melasma?

A member asked:

Why do women get melasma?

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What does melasma look like?

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Does melasma go away on its own?

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What are the symptoms of melasma?

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How is the diagnosis of melasma made?

A member asked:

What is the best way to treat melasma?

A member asked:

Is mylocort recommended to treat melasma?

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