Melasma appears as dark, uneven patches on the skin, commonly affecting areas like the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. This condition is often caused by sun exposure, hormonal fluctuations (such as pregnancy or birth control use), and genetic predisposition. While melasma can be persistent, the right treatments can significantly reduce its appearance and restore a more even skin tone.
Causes of Melasma:
- Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is a major trigger for melasma. It stimulates the melanocytes (cells that produce pigment) to produce more melanin, leading to the dark patches characteristic of melasma.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, are strongly associated with melasma. This is why it's more common in women, especially during pregnancy (often called the "mask of pregnancy") or when using hormonal birth control.
- Genetics: There's a genetic predisposition to melasma. If you have a family history of melasma, you're more likely to develop it yourself.
