Facial Mask: Sun Protection and Treatment in Summer

Hyperpigmentation (mask) are spots/ blemishes on the skin and are a very common skin condition mainly affecting women. It often subsides on its own.

Facial Melasma: Why It Appears & How It Is Treated

Melasma & Sun When melanocytes decide to work overtime, they produce more melanin and create "spots" on the skin , known as melasma . Along with melasma comes the insecurity caused by the impression that all eyes are on them… Melasma is a very common skin condition that primarily affects women . It often clears up on its own but can also last for years. The dermatologist is the one who will suggest the best treatment for each case. « Melasma on the skin does not indicate a health problem »

What is Melasma? Melasma , commonly known as facial spots , is a common skin condition that appears as skin lesions, spots , marks , or "patches" in areas exposed to the sun . Often, it even resembles… a failed tan . Melasma primarily appears in women , often for the first time during their pregnancy (then it is also called the mask of pregnancy ) or when they start taking contraceptives . Melasma is also more common in people with darker skin tones , such as Latinos, Hispanics, Asians, Indians, and people of the Mediterranean region. Melasma appears mainly on the face , specifically on the cheeks , forehead , chin , and upper lip . Sometimes it can also appear on the hands , neck , and other parts of the body.

Why Does Melasma Appear? Although the mechanism that causes melasma is not fully understood, there are factors that trigger its appearance, such as: Sun exposure, which can cause or even bring back melasma you thought had faded. Hormonal changes observed during pregnancy can also create melasma.

Melasma Prevention in Summer The sun is one of the biggest enemies of melasma . Thus, in summer , skin with melasma requires special care . First, daily sun protection is essential. The skin must be protected even on cloudy days, after swimming, or sweating. Never forget your sunscreen if you have had aesthetic treatments in winter. Wear accessories that protect from UV radiation, such as a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses. Apply high-protection sunscreen to every part of the body not covered by clothing. Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going out and reapply every 2 hours. In addition to the sun, avoid solariums, which also worsen melasma. Choose gentle skin care products. Any irritation can make melasma darker. Also, pay attention to the hair removal process. Avoid waxing in areas of the skin with melasma. Consult your dermatologist about the appropriate hair removal method for your case . « Avoid glasses with metal frames and prefer plastic ones, as the reflection from metal causes melasma around the eyes »

How Do Melasma/Spots Go Away? The dermatologist is the one who will propose the ideal treatment for each case of melasma/spots . The goal of every treatment is to reduce the pigment that the body overproduces and to balance the color of the skin to a more natural tone . This can be achieved with topical treatments ( creams for melasma/spots ), such as hydroquinone , as well as with procedures such as chemical peeling , Dermapen and fractional laser . Often, sun protection in combination with a topical treatment effectively addresses melasma/spots .

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Is melasma - spots hereditary?

No, melasma - spots are not hereditary.

Is melasma or can it develop into a type of cancer?

No, melasma is not cancer and is not associated with any form of it.