Melasma Specialist

What is melasma?

Melasma can develop anywhere on your body, although sun-exposed areas are most common. When you have melasma, you start developing gray-brown patches of skin, usually on your face. While melasma isn’t a medical concern and doesn’t cause any uncomfortable symptoms, it can certainly make you feel uncomfortable and self-conscious. 

Why do I have melasma?

Melasma is much more common among women. About 90% of the melasma cases doctors treat are for female patients. Medical experts aren’t clear as to why some people are more likely to develop melasma than others.

However, hormonal fluctuations that commonly affect women are usually to blame. This is why melasma is so common among pregnant women — it’s nicknamed the “mask of pregnancy.”

Your risk of developing melasma is higher if you:

• Undergo hormone replacement therapy (possibly for menopause) 
• Regularly expose your skin to the sun
• Take birth control pills
• Have thyroid disease
• Are overly stressed

Melasma also tends to affect darker-skinned individuals more regularly. In any case, if you experience any changes in your skin tone or color, contact Elite Dermatology for an evaluation. 

How does a dermatologist treat melasma? 

In most cases, your dedicated dermatologist at Elite Dermatology can confirm that you have melasma by performing a skin evaluation. Occasionally, specialized testing is necessary to check for bacterial or fungal infections. Once your dermatologist confirms that you have melasma and rules out other issues, they talk with you about which treatments you may need. 

If your melasma stems from a hormonal treatment, such as birth control pills, finding an alternative medication may be beneficial. Melasma can resolve on its own in some cases by stabilizing your hormone levels.

Your dermatologist can prescribe topical steroids to lighten your skin gradually over time. Undergoing in-office dermabrasion or chemical peel treatments at Elite Dermatology can also help even out your skin tone. 

Once your dermatologist finds the best treatment solution for your case of melasma, they talk with you about preventive care. Getting in the habit of applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily and covering your skin if you’re going to be outside can lower your risk of future melasma issues. 

If your melasma leaves you feeling embarrassed or self-conscious, don’t hesitate to contact Elite Dermatology to get started on treatment. Book your visit online or by phone with any office.