People usually get Melasma, but what are the reasons?

Melasma has been known to be a common skin problem, as it causes discolored or dark patches on the skin. When it occurs in pregnant women, it is called as chloasma or the “mask of pregnancy.”

Melasma is seen predominantly in women. According to a research 90% of people who develop Melasma are women. Men can get it too, though the chances are very grim.

Areas of the body with Melasma show various colored spots viz. tan, brown, or blue-gray. It is predominantly seen to happen on areas of body such as

• Jaw line
• Cheekbone
• Central face.

The cause of Melasma can be anything from the rays of the sun, genetic problems, or hormonal changes seen in women.

It has also been observed that an increase in melanin irritates the skin and can lead to accelerated symptoms of Melasma.

Why do women get Melasma, and what are the symptoms?

It is typically observed in women between the ages of 25-55 years of age.

At the time of pregnancy, women undergo hormonal changes and this could lead to flaring up of Melasma.

Women taking birth control pills are at the risk of getting Melasma.

It could also simply be an aftermath of high sun exposure on sensitive skin.

We’ve just scratched the surface when it comes to knowing the reasons of what causes Melasma.

But, it is seen that darker-skinned women are more prone to this skin disorder, rather than fair-skinned women.

Melasma, as such does not show any symptoms.

But common signs that can be observed are discoloration on the

• Forehead
• Chin
• Nose Bridge
• Cheeks

There are rare cases when people do get patches on the neck and forearms as well, but these conditions are very rare.

If you do notice signs of Melasma, you need to see a dermatologist who specializes in various skin treatments.

How do you know another skin disorder isn’t mimicking Melasma?

People tend to confuse other skin disorders with Melasma because of the signs and symptoms it showcases. It is vital to understand what Melasma is, and what isn’t.

Other skin orders that mimic Melasma can be listed as –

• Skin injuries left behind by acne – they exhibit similar skin discoloration
• Sun spots caused by the sun
• Hyperpigmentation due to sun damage
• Brown or gray colored rash called as lichen planus pigmentosis
• Discoloration or hyperpigmentation of the skin due to certain medication

When should you consult us?

Sooner the better! You should see a dermatologist at Rejuvenate Health

• If it starts to cause personal or psychological distress
• When hyper pigmentation is extremely severe

Prevention is better than cure, and it works best when initiated early.

For all of winter’s sweeping seasonal highs, there are a few less pleasant side effects to note. Enter the onslaught of dry, itchy skin that’s currently settling in for the winter. While switching to a good moisturizer at the first sign of chill proves helpful, the drier climate and indoor heat may have already taken a toll. Fortunately, there’s still time to get serious about a daily routine to ensure a hydrated, glowing complexion.

Change Up Your Diet

With a direct connection between the gut and skin health, increasing your daily intake of fats may help with dry skin. Experts recommends eating a diet rich in walnuts, olive oil, and avocados (but not to sub them for a proper skin-care routine). While that extra glass of full-bodied red wine may seem like a good idea, Experts takes a conservative approach. “Don’t overdo it with alcohol, caffeine, and coffee,” she explains, as they are diuretics that will cause dehydration. And, she says, “drink tons of water.”

Buff Your Skin

No matter how many serums and creams are applied, dry skin will stay dry without some light exfoliation. “Pick up a gentle scrub,” says Experts, “something with a mild glycolic or lactic acid to get off the dead skin.” The expert suggests swapping a gentle formula for your regular cleanser two to three times a week. For those with raw or severely dry skin, skip the exfoliator and incorporate a wet washcloth instead for a gentler option. And tailor your Retin-A usage to every other day because, while it’s surely the wrinkle-fighting hero product, it is also a strong exfoliant and “may cause extra dryness during the winter.” Now that the skin is buffed, “[serums and] moisturizers can penetrate and really get to work.”

Switch to a Heavy Face Cream

Perhaps one of the most important and commonly overlooked steps in the dry skin game is changing to a seriously hydrating moisturizer. “Look for creams, rather than lotions, that are made with ceramides and hyaluronic acid,” Experts says. Ceramides aid in the prevention of the skin’s barrier, which is “easily broken down during the winter.” For patients with severely chapped faces, pack on a hefty amount of product, they says, morning and night.