Melasma is a skin condition that can cause dark patches and spots to develop on the skin.
The face is the most common location for melasma hyperpigmentation. Many health conditions can cause melasma, including pregnancy and thyroid disease. The good news is that melasma treatment and sun protection can help even skin tone and improve confidence.
You can find melasma treatment from our board-certified dermatologists at Goodskin Dermatology in Portland, OR. These experienced doctors understand how to diagnose and treat melasma.
Contact our team or read on to learn more about the causes and treatment of melasma.
What Is Melasma?
Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by splotchy, irregularly shaped, darkened patches on the face.
Typically, melasma appears in the following areas:
- Forehead
- Cheeks
- Nose
- Jawline
- Chin
- Upper lip
According to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), melasma hyperpigmentation can vary in color. It can appear tan, brown, and even shades of gray. In some cases, it looks like patches. For other patients, melasma can appear as freckle-like spots.
While melasma isn’t physically harmful, the National Library of Medicine calls it “one of the most psychologically distressing” types of hyperpigmentation.
What Causes Melasma?
In melasma, the cells responsible for skin color (melanocytes) are more active.
However, the AAD explains that researchers still aren’t sure of the exact cause of this skin condition. Certain melasma triggers have been identified, including:
- Exposure to sunlight and UV rays in tanning beds
- Hormonal changes due to pregnancy or birth control pills
- Certain medications, including anti-seizure drugs and medicines that increase sensitivity to sunlight.
- Thyroid conditions
According to the AAD, stress may also contribute to melasma. Some researchers believe that increased cortisol due to stress can trigger melasma symptoms.
Sometimes, melasma can disappear on its own. However, it’s also possible for it to last years or decades.
Who Gets Melasma?
Anyone can develop melasma on their face, but certain groups are more likely to do so. Below are several groups of people who have a greater risk of developing melasma:
- Women aged 20 to 40 are more likely to develop melasma. According to studies published in the National Library of Medicine, women are nine times more likely than men to get this skin condition.
- People with medium- to dark-skinned tones are more likely to develop this skin condition.
- Having a relative with melasma is another risk factor. According to a PubMed study, 48% of melasma patients reported having a relative with melasma.
How Is Melasma Diagnosed?
A melasma dermatologist can diagnose this skin condition.
After reviewing a patient’s medical history, one of our dermatologists examines the patient’s skin. Often, the physician uses a specialized device, such as a Wood’s lamp. With this tool, they can see how deep the melasma hyperpigmentation reaches into the skin.
After ruling out other skin conditions and confirming a diagnosis of melasma, the dermatologist can recommend treatments.
Melasma Treatment Options at Goodskin Dermatology
No two patients receive the same melasma treatment plan at Goodskin Dermatology. According to the AAD, the goals of treatment are to even skin tone and decrease skin pigment production.
Depending on your unique needs and goals, your melasma treatment plan may include one or more of the following:
- Topical medications, such as hydroquinone and tretinoin, can help even out skin tone.
- Chemical peels can remove excess pigment from the skin.
- Microneedling may improve skin tone over time.
- Laser treatments, such as intense pulsed light, can enhance the results of other melasma treatments.
- Oral medications like tranexamic acid can help treat melasma when other treatments don’t work.
Finally, sun avoidance and protection are critical when you have melasma. This is especially true with Portland’s mix of cloudy winters and sunny summers.
To best protect your skin, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with 30 SPF or higher every day and reapply throughout the day.
Can Melasma Be Cured?
While melasma can be treated, it cannot be permanently cured. Some patients notice that their melasma hyperpigmentation recurs when exposed to triggers such as sunlight.
Why Choose Goodskin Dermatology for Melasma Treatment?
For the last two decades, Goodskin Dermatology has helped patients like you feel good in their skin.
Providing Medical, Surgical, and Aesthetic Dermatology, our trusted skin health specialists can treat melasma and other skin issues.
At every visit, your doctor will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that meets your unique needs. After receiving FDA-approved treatments from our melasma dermatologists, you can enjoy a more even skin tone and better self-confidence.
Start Your Melasma Treatment at Goodskin Dermatology
If you’re ready to address melasma, Goodskin Dermatology is here to help.
Our board-certified dermatologists offer personalized treatment plans at convenient locations across the Portland area, including Clackamas, Hillsboro, Troutdale, and Beaverton.
At-home treatment options are also available.
We’re welcoming new patients. Schedule an appointment or contact our team to get started.
FAQs About Melasma
Is Melasma the Same as Hyperpigmentation?
Melasma is a specific type of hyperpigmentation that occurs on the face. Researchers have linked melasma to hormonal fluctuations and UV exposure.
Will Melasma Go Away on Its Own?
Sometimes, melasma goes away on its own. For example, if pregnancy triggered it, giving birth may resolve the problem. However, melasma may reappear, especially after UV exposure.
Does Insurance Cover Melasma Treatment?
Generally, melasma treatment is not covered by insurance. However, checking with your insurer is the best way to confirm.
How Long Does Melasma Treatment Take?
According to the AAD, melasma treatment can take 3 to 12 months to show results. Sometimes, it can take longer, depending on how long you’ve had the condition.
Can Men Get Melasma?
Melasma is much more common in women; they’re about nine times more likely to develop it than men. That said, men can and do get melasma, and the same treatment options apply.
