Melasma Explained: Causes And Treatments

Melasma is a skin condition and here I will be providing a comprehensive guide to understanding and managing this condition effectively.

If you notice patches of discoloration a shade darker than your usual skin color on the cheeks, forehead, bridge of the nose, chin, or even on the neck and forearms, it could be a sign of melasma (facial pigmentation).

Ninety percent of people who develop melasma are women, though men can get it too. Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy and medications, such as birth control pills, are significant triggers for excessive skin pigment production in melasma. In pregnant women, it is also called chloasma, or the “mask of pregnancy.

Can the matching marks on both sides of the face be cured?

Limiting sun exposure during peak intensity hours, diligently using high-SPF sunscreens, and avoiding hormonal medications may help. However, in individuals prone to genetics, skin type, hormonal fluctuations, or sun exposure complete prevention may not be possible.

In some women, melasma disappears on its own particularly when it’s triggered by pregnancy or the use of birth control pills. Prescribed creams, topical steroids, prescribed medication, chemical peels, dermabrasion, and microdermabrasion are possible options. These treatments and creams may help lighten dark patches. Follow-up visits and certain skin treatment practices lower the risk of recurrence.

Common treatments for melasma

Various treatment options are available to manage this pigmentation disorder of the skin that appears as dark spots and patches –

1- Topical treatments are often the first line of defense against melasma. These include.

Hydroquinone: A skin-lightening agent

Tretinoin: A retinoid that promotes cell turnover

Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation

Kojic acid: A natural skin brightener

2- Chemical peels can effectively treat melasma by eliminating the top layer of skin. Common types include:

Glycolic acid peels

Salicylic acid peels

Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels

3- Laser and light therapies target melanin in the skin.

Fractional laser therapy

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL)

Q-switched Nd: YAG laser

4- Oral medications

Tranexamic acid or Glutathione supplements might be prescribed.

5- Combination therapies deliver the best outcomes—a well-known triple combination known as the Kligman formula has shown significant efficacy in treating melasma.

Hydroquinone for Skin lightening

Tretinoin for Cell turnover

Corticosteroid for Inflammation Reduction.

Effective Home Remedies for Melasma

Several natural ingredients can assist with easing up melasma patches. Below are a few common ways of eliminating melasma naturally.

1- Aloe vera –  Massage your face for two minutes with fresh aloe vera pulp. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.

It’s always good to use it twice daily.

2- Cucumber – Cucumber is high in water content. It lightens and removes pigmentation. Grind it and apply it to the affected regions. Rinse it off with warm water after 20 minutes. Repeat this procedure daily for best outcomes.

3- Onion – Out of many home remedies onion juice is one of the best.

Since onion contains sulfoxides and cepaenes it effectively helps in removing the blemishes. Mix the juice with apple cider vinegar. Dab this concoction over the affected areas. After about 20 minutes, wash it off with lukewarm water. Repeat this twice daily.

4- Turmeric- Curcumin, a strong antioxidant present in Turmeric lightens the skin. Utilizing a 1:2 proportion, blend milk with turmeric powder and apply the combination to the affected parts. Allow the pack to dry completely. Later wash it off with tepid water. For best outcomes Repeat this procedure daily. 

5- Papaya – Papain, present in papayas makes it one of the best home solutions for melasma. Both raw and ripe papaya are utilized for fixing different skin issues. Blend papaya and mix it in with honey. Apply this paste on impacted areas and leave it for 20 minutes. Wash this pack off after 20 minutes. Do this one time per week and for around 2-3 months.

6- Lemon – Lemon is renowned for its natural skin-lightening properties. It is popular in resolving skin-related issues. Apply lemon juice to the affected areas and leave it on for about 20 minutes. Wash it off with lukewarm water. Do this two times every day and you will see a recognizable difference in 3 weeks.

7- Apple cider vinegar – Dab Apple cider vinegar on melasma patches. Wash it off after 20 minutes. The skin-lightening capabilities help improve melasma’s appearance.

Makeup techniques for coverage

Consider these makeup application tips that can immensely enhance confidence.

1- Utilize a color-correcting concealer before foundation.

2- Select a high-coverage, long-lasting foundation.

3- Set makeup with a translucent powder.

4- Touch up over the day depending on your needs.

5- Always select a Color Corrector in peach or orange tones.

6- Go for a Full-coverage, SPF-infused foundation.

7- The concealer should be highly pigmented and creamy.

8- Pick translucent, finely milled setting powder.

Long-term management expectations

While medicines and therapies can remarkably improve melasma, complete and permanent clearance may only sometimes be achievable. Individuals can successfully navigate life with melasma by using sunscreens daily (even indoors), maintaining a consistent skincare routine, showing patience with treatment results, following up with a dermatologist, understanding that some pigmentation may persist, and having a positive mindset.

Prevention and Management Strategies

By implementing these prevention and management strategies, you can effectively control melasma and maintain clearer skin.

1-Sun protection methods

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher daily to protect against tanning and sun damage.
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours.
• Wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses when outside.
• Seek shade, particularly during peak sunlight (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

2- Skincare routine

• Utilize delicate, non-irritating cleansers.
• Include ingredients like vitamin C and niacinamide.
• Apply moisturizers with skin-barrier-supporting components.
• Keep away from harsh exfoliants.

3- Lifestyle adjustments

• Reducing stress will minimize hormonal fluctuations.
• A balanced and healthy diet will provide antioxidants.
• Staying away from heat exposure will reduce skin inflammation.
• Adequate sleep repairs and regenerates the skin.

4- Hormonal health considerations

• You are discussing hormonal factors with your healthcare provider, including birth control options.
• We are effectively managing conditions like thyroid disorders that can influence hormone levels.
• Taking a cautious and informed approach to hormone replacement therapy.
• Top 10 products for melasma treatment.

Below is a curated list of products, ranging from over-the-counter (OTC) solutions to professional-grade treatments, available in India and the USA. These products are specifically formulated to address melasma-prone skin.

India

1. Re’equil Skin Radiance Cream
   • Description: Formulated with natural extracts and Vitamin E, this cream helps restore even skin tone and reduces melasma spots.
   • Key Ingredients: Pterocarpus marsupium extract, aloe vera, Vitamin E.
   • Usage: Apply twice daily to affected areas.
   • Availability: Available on Amazon India.
2. The Derma Co. 2% Kojic Acid Face Cream
   • Description: Combines kojic acid and Vitamin C to target pigmentation and brighten skin.
   • Key Ingredients: Kojic acid, Vitamin C, tetrahydrocurcuminoids.
   • Usage: Apply evenly to the face after cleansing.
   • Availability: Available on Amazon India.
3. Minimalist 2% Tranexamic Acid Cream
   • Description: Offers sun protection and reduces melanin production, making it suitable for melasma-prone skin.
   • Key Ingredients: Tranexamic acid, mandelic acid, hyaluronic acid.
   • Usage: Apply in the morning after cleansing.
   • Availability: Available on Amazon India.
4. Fixderma Skarfix-TX Cream
   • Description: Contains TX, kojic acid, and Vitamin C to lighten dark patches and even out skin tone.
   • Key Ingredients: TX, kojic acid, Vitamin C.
   • Usage: Apply twice daily to affected areas.
   • Availability: Available on Amazon India.
5. Olay Regenerist Retinol 24 Night Serum
   • Description: Penetrates deep layers to reduce pigmentation and improve skin tone.
   • Key Ingredients: Retinoids, peptides.
   • Usage: Apply at night after cleansing.
   • Availability: Available on Amazon India.
6. No7 Protect and Perfect Intense Advanced Day Cream SPF 30
   • Description: Contains Avobenzone and peptides to inhibit melanin production and protect against UV rays.
   • Key Ingredients: Avobenzone, peptides, antioxidants.
   • Usage: Apply in the morning as the final step in your skincare routine.
   • Availability: Available on Amazon India.
7. Ambi Fade Cream
   • Description: Contains 2% hydroquinone, Vitamin E, and lactic acid to lighten dark spots.
   • Key Ingredients: Hydroquinone, Vitamin E, lactic acid.
   • Usage: Apply twice daily to affected areas.
   • Availability: Available on Amazon India.
8. The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
   • Description: Known for its efficacy in brightening skin and reducing hyperpigmentation.
   • Key Ingredients: Azelaic acid.
   • Usage: Apply in the morning and evening after cleansing.
   • Availability: Available on Amazon India.
9. The Derma Co. 2% Kojic Acid Face Cream
   • Description: Contains kojic acid, Vitamin C, and tetrahydro curcuminoids to naturally brighten the skin.
   • Key Ingredients: Kojic acid, Vitamin C, tetrahydrocurcuminoids.
   • Usage: Apply evenly to the face after cleansing.
   • Availability: Available on Amazon India.
10. Minimalist 2% Tranexamic Acid Cream
    • Description: An anti-melasma cream with tranexamic acid and mandelic acid, also offers sun protection due to the presence of hyaluronic acid.
    • Key Ingredients: Tranexamic acid, mandelic acid, hyaluronic acid.
    • Usage: Apply in the morning after cleansing.
    • Availability: Available on Amazon India.

USA

1. SkinCeuticals Discoloration Defense
   • Description: A serum featuring tranexamic acid and kojic acid, designed to combat pigmentation effectively.
   • Key Ingredients: Tranexamic acid, kojic acid, niacinamide.
   • Usage: Apply twice daily after cleansing.
   • Availability: Available on Dermstore.
2. EltaMD UV Elements Tinted Broad-Spectrum SPF 44
   • Description: A sunscreen offering protection from UVA/UVB and blue light while reducing melasma flare-ups.
   • Key Ingredients: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, iron oxide.
   • Usage: Apply in the morning as the final skincare step.
   • Availability: Available on Bluemercury.
3. IT Cosmetics Bye Bye Dark Spots Serum
   • Description: Combines niacinamide and Vitamin C to reduce pigmentation and brighten skin.
   • Key Ingredients: Niacinamide, Vitamin C, licorice root extract.
   • Usage: Apply twice daily to affected areas.
   • Availability: Available on Amazon.
4. Deerskin Tranexamic Acid Serum
   • Description: Hypoallergenic serum that reduces melasma and other hyperpigmentation.
   • Key Ingredients: Tranexamic acid, niacinamide, hyaluronic acid.
   • Usage: Use twice daily on clean skin.
   • Availability: Available on Amazon.
5. MESANDY Dark Spot Corrector
   • Description: Powerful serum with kojic acid and licorice root extract for brightening skin.
   • Key Ingredients: Kojic acid, licorice root extract, Vitamin E.
   • Usage: Apply in the evening before moisturizer.
   • Availability: Available on Amazon.
6. Murad Rapid Age Spot and Pigment Lightening Serum
   • Description: Professional-grade serum targeting stubborn pigmentation.
   • Key Ingredients: Hydroquinone, glycolic acid, Vitamin C.
   • Usage: Apply a small amount in the evening.
   • Availability: Available on Sephora.
7. The Ordinary Azelaic Acid Suspension 10%
   • Description: An effective brightening cream targeting pigmentation and acne scars.
   • Key Ingredients: Azelaic acid.
   • Usage: Apply twice daily.
   • Availability: Available on Ulta.
8. La Roche-Posay Mela-D Pigment Control Glycolic Acid Serum
   • Description: A dermatologist-recommended serum that lightens discoloration over time.
   • Key Ingredients: Glycolic acid, kojic acid, Vitamin C.
   • Usage: Use nightly before bed.
   • Availability: Available on Amazon.
9. Neutrogena Rapid Tone Repair Dark Spot Corrector
   • Description: Combines retinol and Vitamin C to improve skin tone and reduce melasma spots.
   • Key Ingredients: Retinol SA, Vitamin C.
   • Usage: Use once daily in the evening.
   • Availability: Available on Amazon and major drugstores.
10. Obagi Nu-Derm Clear FX
    • Description: A brightening cream that promotes even skin tone and reduces hyperpigmentation.
    • Key Ingredients: Arbutin, Vitamin C, Vitamin E.
    • Usage: Apply twice daily as part of a skincare routine.
    • Availability: Available through authorized Obagi sellers and Dermstore.

This curated list provides a mix of sunscreens, serums, and creams specifically formulated to address melasma-prone skin, ensuring comprehensive care for varying budgets and needs. Always consult a dermatologist for tailored treatment.

Conclusion

Melasma is a common yet complex skin condition. From topical solutions to advanced procedures, there are diverse strategies to address melasma, each with unique benefits and considerations.

Preventive measures like safeguarding your skin from the sun, picking the right skincare products, and adopting a healthy lifestyle can effectively reduce its appearance.

Disclaimer:  If you’re dealing with melasma, consulting a dermatologist is essential for personalized advice and tailored treatment options. With the right care and management, achieving clearer, more even-toned skin is possible, helping you feel confident and radiant.