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Melasma is a skin condition with irregular patches of brown or gray patches. Melasma Elmhurst is painless but sun exposure, heat, and light might aggravate it. Avoiding factors that worsen the situation is crucial to prevent it from reoccurring.
Causes and risk factors
The two primary causes of melasma are radiation and hormonal imbalance. Radiation can be in the form of sun exposure or infrared light. Pregnant women who use oral contraceptives are at a greater risk of getting the condition because of the estrogen and progesterone hormones.
Besides the above, you are at an increased risk of getting the condition because of your skin care products like cleansers, soaps, and makeup. If you have easily irritated skin, avoid harsh products on your face that can make the condition worse.
The condition is prevalent in the following groups of people:
- People of color – Black, Hispanic, Asian
- Pregnant women
Types of melasma
There are three common types of melasma, and they include:
Epidermal melasma
Epidermal melasma is responsive to treatment and is characterized by a dark brown color. It is visible under black light and has defined edges.
Dermal melasma
Characterized by light brown or bluish color, dermal melasma does not appear any different under black light. It does not have defined edges and can be unresponsive to treatment.
Mixed melasma
Mixed melasma is the most common type of condition. It contains patches of both brown and bluish colors and somewhat responds to treatment.
Treatment options
After tests and diagnosis, your dermatologist will offer treatment based on the type of your melasma. You might undergo one of the following treatments.
Medications and skin care products
Medications come in different varieties, like oral tablets, injections, and topical creams. Your doctor can recommend various types of skin care products that are soothing and scent-free to help you manage your condition.
Laser therapy
You can also undergo laser therapy which involves the ablation of the melasma patches using special beams of concentrated light.
Combination therapy
Combination therapy involves combining methods of treating the condition together. You can use oral medication, topical creams, and recommended skin care products for the best results.
It is crucial to keep in mind that if you are pregnant, you might only receive topical treatment for the condition so that you can prevent exposing your unborn baby to the medication.
Prevention
Although you cannot prevent your genetics, you can minimize the risk of getting the condition. It might be challenging to deal with melasma during pregnancy because of the unborn baby. However, you can eat vitamin D-rich foods to help with the situation.
The following are actions you can take to manage the condition:
- Use sunscreen whenever you are outdoors
- Limit time in front of your television and phone
- Avoid control birth methods that contain hormones
- When outside, wear a hat to minimize sun exposure
- Eat foods with vitamin D
If you are struggling with melisma, visit Leva Medical for treatment. You will receive personalized treatment from qualified and compassionate staff, depending on the severity of your condition. Call or book an appointment online and enjoy blemish-free skin.
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