Melasma is a common condition affecting women during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. This is caused by the increased levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy, which stimulate melanin production and appear as dark patches on the face.
It is more common in sun-exposed areas of the body because the sun can stimulate melanin production more than usual due to the increased levels of these hormones. It usually appears in the second or third trimester of pregnancy and is temporary, improving after childbirth.
What is Melasma
Melasma is characterized by the appearance of dark patches, either continuous or intermittent, on the face and other areas such as the neck and arms. It is more common in women with darker skin tones and is usually temporary, improving after delivery.
Symptoms of Melasma
The main symptoms include:
- The appearance of dark, light, or gray patches on the skin.
- The patches are concentrated on the face, especially on the cheeks, forehead, or temples.
- The discoloration may change, and the spots may darken with sun exposure or as the pregnancy progresses.
- There is no discomfort such as pain, itching, or swelling.
- It usually appears in the second or third trimester of pregnancy.
What are the causes of melasma during pregnancy
The main cause of melasma during pregnancy is hormonal changes, especially when estrogen and progesterone levels rise. This stimulates melanin production, and the condition worsens with sun exposure. It is more common in women with darker skin tones.
Treatment for Melasma During Pregnancy
Melasma often doesn't require treatment because the symptoms gradually fade over time, especially after childbirth. For some, it may even disappear after breastfeeding. However, there are some tips to manage melasma during pregnancy and minimize its appearance.
Tips to Reduce Melasma During Pregnancy
- Avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen when going outside.
- Use cosmetics to conceal melasma if its appearance is bothersome and causes embarrassment.
- Eat foods rich in folic acid, such as spinach, rice, and citrus fruits. Avoid exfoliating your skin during pregnancy, especially around the upper lip.
Treating Melasma After Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
A common treatment for melasma during pregnancy is a topical cream containing hydroquinone. Apply it only to the pigmented skin twice a day, and use sunscreen afterward.
Use a cream containing a vitamin A analog (retinoid), which is effective in treating melasma during pregnancy, along with other creams containing azelaic acid or hydroquinone. These ingredients can also be mixed with other components under a doctor's supervision to create an effective melasma treatment.
Natural Ways to Reduce Melasma
- Apply aloe vera gel topically to improve the symptoms of melasma during pregnancy.
- Mix avocado, rich in vitamin C and fatty acids, with honey to rejuvenate the skin.
- Consume fern to reduce the appearance of melasma during pregnancy.
- Mix turmeric with milk to reduce melanin production and even out skin tone.
- Make an oatmeal and honey mask, as it acts as a natural exfoliant, removing dead skin cells and dark spots.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does melasma start to appear during pregnancy?
Melasma usually appears in the second trimester and worsens in the later stages.
Can melasma appear under the armpits
Yes, it can. It can appear in sensitive areas and may appear as a vertical line down the center of the abdomen. These changes are usually temporary and often disappear after childbirth.
How can I tell the difference between melasma and hyperpigmentation
Melasma is usually caused by hormonal changes and appears as brown patches, especially on the face. Hyperpigmentation, on the other hand, can be caused by various factors such as acne scars and sun exposure.
Article Summary
Melasma is a common condition affecting women during pregnancy. It causes dark brown or gray patches to appear due to hormonal changes, specifically the increased levels of estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy.
Melasma can affect the face and other areas such as the neck and arms. It is more common in women with darker skin tones and its appearance increases with frequent sun exposure.