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While melasma is not hazardous, it might cause cosmetic changes to your skin. It's skin hyperpigmentation that often affects the complexion, earning it the moniker "the mask of pregnancy." But what causes melasma during pregnancy, and how can you reduce your chance of getting it? Here, dermatologists and obstetricians explain the facts.
What is Melasma in Pregnancy?
Melasma, also known as chloasma, is a kind of skin discolouration that occurs during pregnancy.It often creates dark, uneven pigmentation on the cheeks or around the eyes.
Melasma is related to linea nigra, a dark line that may appear on a pregnant woman's tummy. However, although the linea nigra is caused by hormones during pregnancy, it is less impacted by sunlight.
What Causes Melasma While Pregnant?
Melasma is most often connected with hormonal changes caused by pregnancy. Melasma may develop as a result of sun or heat exposure, even when you don't anticipate it.According to doctors, certain individuals seem to be more susceptible to getting melasma during pregnancy than others, such as those with a family history of melasma and those who spend time in the sun without protection. Melasma risk may also be determined by your skin tone. Melasma is more commonly seen in those with darker skin tones.
When Does Melasma Appear in Pregnancy?
Melasma may arise at any stage during pregnancy. It might be early on, towards the end, or in the postpartum period. Most often, it happens around the second or third trimester, when hormone levels begin to increase.Pregnancy Melasma Treatment Options
Melasma treatment methods vary, but not all are deemed safe during pregnancy.During pregnancy, topical treatments with vitamin C or azelaic acid may help lighten the patches. Glycolic acid peels may also help brighten melasma areas. However, bleaching lotions like hydroquinone, salicylic acid peels, and lasers are reserved for after pregnancy. Regardless, speak to your doctor before applying anything new to your skin.
Home remedies for melasma when pregnant
If you come across any home treatments to treat melasma during pregnancy, continue with care and consult your doctor before beginning any DIY regimen. Aloe vera and turmeric have been shown in studies to be effective; however, other components may worsen skin conditions. Basically, do as advised by a dermatologist or obstetrician.How to Prevent Melasma While Pregnant?
While there are certain steps you may take to reduce your chance of having melasma during pregnancy, there is no way to completely avoid it. Of course, since sun exposure may aggravate or induce melasma, physicians emphasise the significance of sun protection. This entails taking the following precautions to protect your skin:
- Wear sunscreen: One minute of unprotected sun exposure may ruin a year's worth of diligent skincare. Tinted mineral sunscreens are good since they also protect against visible light, which is known to aggravate face hyperpigmentation
- Stick to the shade: If you plan to remain outdoors for a lengthy amount of time, look for a shaded area
- Wear a cap: This may help shade your face, which is particularly prone to melasma
Does Melasma Go Away After Pregnancy?
For some women, melasma may fade after pregnancy is over, or become less noticeable as hormone levels stabilise. However, this is not guaranteed. Skin hyperpigmentation may persist, especially if you are going out in the sun often, or if you are on oral contraceptives.Factors to keep in mind for recovery:
- Sun protection: Ideally, you should limit sun exposure. However, this is not possible for everyone. Avoid direct sunlight as much as possible, and when you do have to go out in the sun, wear sunscreen. Do your research and choose a sunscreen that has a high level of protection. You could even ask your dermatologist to recommend one. Additionally, wear a hat or carry an umbrella when going out in the sun.
- Skin type: Darker skin tones are more prone to discolouration and hyperpigmentation due to the production of more melanin in the skin.
- Treatments: Professional treatments like chemical peels or laser therapy can help with melasma. You can check with your dermatologist about topical creams that could help as well.
Clarifying Misconceptions Around Melasma
Misconception: Melasma is permanent
- Fact: Melasma is not permanent and can fade over time. You will need to care for your skin consistently to make this happen. Some treatments are more effective and offer a more permanent solution. Check with your dermatologist for more information.
Misconception: Pregnancy is the only cause of melasma
- Fact: Melasma is common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, however, melasma in general can be triggered by many different factors such as sun exposure, hormonal changes due to medications, hormonal therapies and genetic factors.
Misconception: Tanning can help blend melasma
- Fact: Tanning can actually make melasma a lot worse and increase the hyperpigmentation significantly. Tannin can also make your skin patchy.
Misconception: Melasma only happens to women
- Fact: Melasma can happen to anyone, even though it is more common in women. Men can develop melasma through triggers such as sun exposure too.
FAQs on The Mask of Pregnancy: All You Need to Know About Melasma:
- What causes melasma when pregnant?
Pregnant women have higher amounts of oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones are considered to contribute to melasma. The deeper colour often disappears after pregnancy. - Which foods are harmful to melasma?
Avoiding foods rich in copper, glycaemic index, sugar, soy, and dairy may help relieve melasma symptoms. Because reactions to dietary modifications might vary, it is essential to consult with a dermatologist to build a personalised strategy for controlling melasma.
