While it may sound like a fancy, unusual word, melasma is a very common skin condition. You might have noticed dark brown patches on your cheeks, forehead, or upper lip—maybe even thought it was just your skin reacting to the sun. These patches often appear suddenly—during pregnancy, while taking birth control, or even after a summer vacation—and they tend to be symmetrical. The frustrating part? They’re difficult to cover with makeup.
What Causes Melasma
Many people wonder what causes melasma, and the truth is, we don’t know exactly. What we do know is that several triggers can make it appear or worsen:
- Hormonal changes: Pregnancy (sometimes called the “pregnancy mask” or chloasma), birth control pills, and menopause are common triggers.
- Sun exposure, heat, and humidity: These don’t cause melasma directly, but they can make it worse.
- Genetics and skin type: Some people are naturally more prone to melasma than others.
Because the exact cause isn’t fully understood, melasma can be challenging to treat and may be a chronic condition for many people.
Managing Melasma
Even though melasma can be persistent, it can be effectively managed. Many patients have struggled with it for years, trying different creams or home remedies with limited success. At a clinic, professional treatment options are available to help reduce the appearance of melasma and prevent it from worsening.
Common approaches include:
- Topical prescription creams to lighten patches.
- Laser or light-based treatments to target pigmentation.
Lifestyle adjustments like sun protection, avoiding heat triggers, and gentle skincare.
* Melasma before and after photos
Frequently Asked Questions About Melasma
1. Can melasma go away on its own?
Melasma sometimes fades after pregnancy or when hormonal changes stabilize, but for many people, it’s a chronic condition. Professional treatment can help manage it and improve skin tone.
2. Is melasma only caused by the sun?
No. While sun exposure can worsen melasma, it is not the root cause. Hormonal changes, genetics, and other triggers play a bigger role. Using sunscreen daily is key to preventing flare-ups.
3. Who gets melasma?
Melasma is more common in women than men, especially those between 20 and 50. People with darker skin tones are often more prone, but anyone can develop it.
4. Can makeup cover melasma?
Makeup can help, but melasma patches are often stubborn and hard to fully conceal. Professional treatments can significantly improve the appearance and reduce the need for heavy makeup.
5. What treatments are available?
There are effective clinic-based treatments including prescription creams, laser therapy, and chemical peels. Sun protection and lifestyle changes are also essential to prevent worsening.
6. Is melasma painful or dangerous?
No, melasma is not harmful or painful. It’s primarily a cosmetic concern, but it can affect confidence and self-esteem.
7. Can men get melasma too?
Yes, although less common, men can develop melasma, usually triggered by sun exposure or hormonal changes.
Support and Guidance
We understand how frustrating melasma can be. It’s not just a cosmetic concern—it can affect confidence and self-esteem. But with the right treatment plan and guidance, you can regain clearer skin and control over your condition.
At Celibre Medical, we’ve helped countless patients—mostly women, but some men too—gain control over their melasma. We focus on understanding your skin, providing effective treatment options, and teaching you how to avoid triggers that make melasma worse. With the right support, clearer, more even skin is possible.
