Get Even: Melasma Causes and Treatments


Melasma may sound like a trivial, cosmetic concern since it does not cause any other symptoms or health problems other than skin discoloration, but to a person who has melasma it can be crippling and emotionally painful. The major observed causes of melasma are an increase in hormones (pregnancy, oral contraceptives, or hormone replacement therapy), genetics, and sun exposure. In rare cases, melasma has occurred through an allergic reaction to medications and cosmetics.

Estrogen and Progesterone levels are normally increased during the third trimester of pregnancy. This increase in hormones in some cases stimulates the melanin producing cells in the skin to increase and cause the brown patches. The discoloration usually disappears spontaneously over a period of several months after giving birth, stopping the oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy.



No matter how your melasma has occurred, it can be treated. For tolerant medium-toned skin, Hydroquinone is a powerful bleaching agent to lighten melasma. Hydroquinone is great for the surface pigment but makes sure you have some of the following ingredients in your products as well to help stop the production of the melanin. PrecisionMD VIVATIA Brightening Complex contains 2% HQ but works as well as a 4% HQ. Mandelic Acid is gentle, non-irritating ingredient ideal for darker complexions. Kojic Acid, Azeilic Acid, Arbutin, Licorice, and Vitamin C are all proven ingredients to treat sensitive or reactive skin.

M2 Advanced High Potency Skin Refinish or Mama Lotion is great for sensitive skin but strong enough to lighten and brighten the skin. Meosestetic Cosmelan 2 Maintenance Depigmentation Cream will lightening the surface discoloration and will also inhibit further pigmentation from coming to the surface.


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