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Conditions 2 min

Last Updated Jan 18, 2024

What is melasma and what causes it?

Author
|
Dermatology Resident
Dr. Jesse Dewey

Melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation on the face. Genetics, hormones, and sun exposure are the major causes of melasma.

Melasma is characterized by dark patches of skin on the face. These patches result when melanocytes, a type of skin cell that produces skin pigment, become overactive producing extra pigment that deposits in the skin. 

The most common cause of melasma is sun exposure, but hormone spikes from oral contraceptive pills (birth control) and during pregnancy can exacerbate the condition. 

Melasma is one of the most challenging conditions to treat in dermatology and often relapses despite adequate treatment. The first-line treatment for melasma is to use a tinted sunscreen with iron oxides to prevent worsening hyperpigmentation. Ingredients such as hydroquinone, arbutin, kojic acid, retinoids, and vitamin C can all be used to treat melasma once it forms. 

Doctor's Note

Melasma is characterized by dark patches on the face.

Sun exposure, pregnancy, and oral contraceptives are the main causes.

Wearing a tinted sunscreen is the best thing you can do to prevent & treat melasma. 

The Research

Therapeutic Insights in Melasma and Hyperpigmentation Management. Pubmed ID 31424704

Dr. Jesse Dewey

Dermatology Resident

Dr. Jesse Dewey

Dermatology Resident

Dr. Jesse Dewey hails from the beautiful state of Utah where he completed
both his undergraduate and medical school training. Currently, he is
completing his dermatology residency in Wilmington, North Carolina
where he also plans on completing a surgical fellowship. Dr. Dewey
loves dermatology and enjoys helping people obtain and maintain
beautiful and healthy skin. Outside the clinic, Dr. Dewey finds joy in
spending quality time with his family, exploring the east coast, and
indulging in his favorite TV shows.

Location: Wilmington, North Carolina

Doctor's Note

Melasma is characterized by dark patches on the face.

Sun exposure, pregnancy, and oral contraceptives are the main causes.

Wearing a tinted sunscreen is the best thing you can do to prevent & treat melasma. 

The Research

Therapeutic Insights in Melasma and Hyperpigmentation Management. Pubmed ID 31424704

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