Melasma can be a particulary difficult skin condition to treat for many women. Hyperpigmention or the mask of pregnancy causes dark splotchy spots on the cheeks, nose, lips, upper lip, and forehead. This article discusses several solutions one might evaluate when faced with this annoying skin condition.

Melasma, also known as Chloasma is most common in pregnant women or women using hormone replacement (HRT) therapy.  This skin condition  is also quite common for Native American,  German,  Russian and Jewish descent.  It is very important to have your dermatologist diagnose your condition because melasma can be an indicator of thyroid disease or Addison’s disease (endocrine or hormonal disorder). Fortunately, there are various treatments for melasma that will greatly improve skin tone and brighten the complexion.

Topical depigmenting agents, such as hydroquinone are often prescribed to  inhibit tyrosinase, an enzyme involved in the production of melanin. The full extent of the dangers of hydroquinone, the active ingredient in skin bleaching creams are still unknown. U.S. studies have linked it with leukemia, liver damage, and thyroid disorders. Animal studies show that it could cause mutations in developing fetuses.

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Natural remedies include using diluted apple cider vinegar as an astringent or toner. Vinegar is chemically acetic acid, capable of whitening and brightening, as well as making the skin more radiant and smooth. Alternatively, fresh lemon juice is also effective. A third home remedy would be to dip an onion slice in the vinegar and apply to the skin. Over a course of a few weeks the skin pigmentation should improve.

If the thought of smelling like vinegar and onions is just not your idea of fun, other natural topical lotions and serums are available to brighten the complexion without the risk and side effects of hydroquinone. An advanced pigment reducing formula called Meladerm contains an amazing list of natural compounds such as: niacinamide (Vitamin B3), mulberry extract, bearberry extract, licorice extract, and  lemon juice extract to name a few. Many testimonials report results in 2 or 3 weeks.

It is important to note that when being diagnosed by your doctor using something called a Wood’s lamp, excess melanin in the epidermis can be distinguished from that of the dermis.  Dermal Melasma is generally unresponsive to most treaments, and has only been found to lighten with products containing mandelic acid.

Mandelic acid has been used as a antibacterial treatment for urinary tract infections but recently become a popular treatment for a wide variety of skin concerns, from acne to wrinkles; it is especially good in the treatment of adult acne as it addresses both of these concerns. Mandelic acid is also recommended is a pre- and post-laser treatment, reducing the amount and length of irritation caused by laser resurfacing. Products containing Mandelic acid skin care is now available to the general public through select skincare companies: Nucelle and Vivant in the USA, and Ishtar Skinlights in the UK.

Another important point to note is that if in fact you have been diagnosed with Dermal Melasma, IPL Laser treatments can actually DARKEN and worsen the appearance of hyperpigmentation. However, many before and after photos of Fraxel Laser treatments, approved by the FDA, have significantly reduced melasma where other treatments have failed.

To Conclude, there are many ways one can greatly improve appearance of melasma. By carefully considering your options and the possible risks associated with different treatments, a brighter more radiant complexion can be restored and preserved.

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