What Melasma is is the over or hyper-pigmentation of the skin which creates dark-looking brown spots all over a person’s face. These spots usually manifest symmetrically all over a person’s nose, upper lip, forehead and cheeks. The causes of Melasma are associated with the overproduction of melanin, the substance that creates a skin’s overall pigmentation. As for who gets it, the answer is mostly women, to the tune of 90% of all cases.
The Genetic Causes Of Melasma
A person’s genetic makeup has been proven to be one of the most significant causes of Melasma. Those with darker skin, especially those of African descent or individuals with tropical heritage are more susceptible to the ailment. About a third of those who experience Melasma have a family history as well. As further evidence of genetics’ role in Melasma, usually when one identical twin gets the condition, the other will eventually as well.
The Hormonal Causes Of Melasma
Another major contributing factor to the development of Melasma is an overabundance of female hormones. This is most pronounced in women on birth control or those who are pregnant. In pregnant women, a hormone that increases melanin production called MSH is believed to be in higher amounts in the body, thus increasing risk for Melasma.
Females taking birth control pills to disrupt hormone functions and those on hormone replacement therapy during and after menopause also have an increased amount of melanin in their bodies. In fact, progesterone, the hormone used in most HRT treatements, has been shown to be directly linked to Melasma in some women. Even men who undergo certain hormonal treatments for prostate cancer have shown an increased risk for Melasma.
Other Causes Of Melasma
Since melanin is the chemical in the skin that leads to tanning after exposure to the sun, too much sunlight for those prone to Melasma are more likely to see their condition worsen. That’s why those individuals with darker complexions who have more melanin to begin with, tend to see their conditions flare up after extended periods in the sun. There are also a few medications that have been look at as potential causes of Melasma. Dilantin is one of the drugs linked to the condition. Anti-malaria drugs, anti-seizure medications and even tetracycline have all been looked at as causes of Melasma as well. Even those with thyroid problems are considered to be at higher risk for Melasma, since they too produce more MSH than healthy individuals.
I know that thare are quite a few causes of Melasma so let us also look at possible treatment of Melasma today.