What is melasma?

Melasma is most commonly found in women. Many women notice these blotchy patches of skin typically on their face, and they are a darker tone compared to your natural complexion. Melasma is sometimes mistaken for other skin conditions and even may trigger a “cancer scare,” but it is not harmful.

This harmless skin condition is also referred to as the “mask of pregnancy.” Some women first notice these freckle-like spots on their fae during pregnancy or when they first start taking birth control pills. Most times, these dark areas will go away after pregnancy or if birth control pills are changed or no longer taken.

Melasma causes and risk factors

This condition is most commonly found in women with medium to dark skin tones and will show as grayish-brown patches or freckled spots on the cheeks, forehead, chin, and occasionally the arms and neck.

Most cases of Melasma will disappear on their own. It may take a few years for the discoloration to clear completely. If you’re in the Mansfield, Marion, or Bucyrus regions of Ohio and your Melasma has not cleared, then we recommend seeing one of our board-certified dermatologists at the Dermatology Associates of Mid Ohio right away for a personalized treatment plan. Although there is not a specific cure for Melasma, we can conduct a treatment goal with topical cream and ointments to reduce the discoloration and even eliminate it completely. This condition may return if there is long exposure to the sun, so wearing sunscreen and protective clothing is always recommended when living with any skin condition.

Treatment and prevention of Melasma

Our specialists understand that treating Melasma in darker skin tones requires a different approach from treating Melasma in lighter skin tones. Some Melasma treatments could irritate darker skin, which can worsen Melasma and make it darker. This is why we consult with you on a personal level to ensure proper care and consideration are taken with every patient. We encourage you to make an appointment with our offices today for a plan made specifically for you and your skin type.