Blaines Melasma Information

Melasma is a common skin problem presenting as brownish patches on the face. The condition tends to come on slowly and fade with time. It has a tendency to run in families.

Melasma is far more common in women with only 10% of those affected being men. The males affected are usually young men who use aftershave lotions, scented soap and other toiletries.

Mask of Pregnancy

Women affected are usually 20 - 40 years in age and of dark skinned races - primarily Hispanics, Asians, Indians, North Africans and women from the Middle East. It is not uncommon for pregnant women to experience melasma. In these cases the condition is known as chloasma or the "Mask of Pregnancy".

Melasma affects both sides of the face and is usually seen on the cheeks, bridge of the nose, forehead and upper lip. It may extend below the face onto the sun-exposed part of the neck.

Cause of melasma unknown

The exact cause of melasma is unknown, however it does tend to be triggered by hormonal changes. Hence its frequency in pregnancy. The contraceptive pill has also been known to cause melasma, while hormone replacement therapy, used after menopause has not been found to contribute to the condition at all.

Sunlight contributes to melasma

Sunlight contributes to melasma. The suns ultraviolet light will stimulate pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) in the skin. Melasma is more common in people with dark coloured skin because the melanocytes in their skin are more active. Incidental exposure to the sun may cause the melasma to reoccur and skin irritations may cause it to worsen.

There is no cure for melasma. It often subsides after pregnancy but may continue for years or even a lifetime.

Use broad spectrum sunscreens

The use of broad spectrum sunscreens is vital whilst melasma is present. As is avoiding heavily scented facial cleansers or creams. Over the counter bleaching creams may also be used. A low concentration of Hydroquinone in bleaching creams works by decreasing the activity of the pigment producing melanocytes.

Dermatologists may prescribe facial creams with a higher concentration of hydroquinone or in more resistant cases chemical peels, microdermabrasion and laser surgery have been used. However the results with these methods have not been consistent.

People should be warned against seeking treatments without a dermatologist's supervision as complications may result. A regime of bleaching creams, irritant avoidance, sunscreens and close medical supervision can lead to a successful outcome