Treating the Mask of Pregnancy
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Melasma is a very common skin disorder that causes dark patches of skin to appear on areas of the face that are frequently exposed to the sun. Its cause is associated with the female hormones estrogen and progestin, so the disorder is most commonly found in young women, especially those of a tropical background. Melasma is also commonly found in pregnant women, so much so that it is also known as “the mask of pregnancy.” The disorder can however, be found in other types of people as well. Melasma is not dangerous and does not cause any known health complications, but it can be distressing for people with the disorder. There are several treatment options for melasma, and your dermatologist will be the best person able to determine what is appropriate for you.
There are multiple over-the-counter and prescription topical creams available to treat melasma. Creams containing a combination of tretinoin, hydroquinone, kojic acid, and azelaic acid have been shown to improve the appearance of melasma. Topical steroid creams are often suggested for melasma patients as well.
For pregnant women, sometimes melasma will fade on its own after the pregnancy has ended once hormone levels have returned to normal. Taking hormone medications sometimes exacerbates melasma, so your doctor may recommend that you stop taking birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy treatments.
Laser therapy is a proven effective alternative to creams and medications for the treatment of melasma. They can remove dark pigments without scarring or leaving further damage to the skin. The dermatologists at Skin Laser and Surgery Specialists have a unique approach for treating melasma that involves using lasers in combination with anti-inflammatory LED treatments, and it has proven very successful. After treatment, proper sun protection will be necessary to help keep melasma spots from returning.
If you are interested in learning more about melasma and exploring your treatment options, contact Skin Laser and Surgery Specialists of NY & NJ today at (646) 461-8550.