Knowing Melasma
Melasma is a skin discolouration condition that is characterised by irregular brown patches found usually on the face, especially on areas like cheeks, forehead, chin and nose. It can affect anyone, but more commonly women than men because nine out of ten people who suffer from it are women.
Causes of Melasma are due to genetics and changes in hormone levels, which explain why pregnant women, those on birth control pills and Hormone Replacement Therapy are associated with this condition. Other than that, brown skin people like Asians and Latin Americans are more susceptible to Melasma because their melanocytes (melanin-producing cells) are more active than those with lighter skin tone.
Sun exposure is a dominant factor in triggering this condition, where UV rays stimulate the melanocytes, inducing them to produce more melanin that leads to darkening of the skin. By protecting yourself through the use of sun screen, you are preventing damage being done to your skin.
Other than cosmetic concerns, Melasma does not cause any health problems. For treatment, visit a dermatologist for prescription creams and close monitoring of the condition. Those who use bleaching creams, chemical peels, laser treatment may be useful but sometimes complications may arise and further aggravate the condition.
As the saying goes; Prevention is better than cure. The key to prevention is to avoid the sun and apply sunscreen when outdoors, even when there is no sun. It is not within your control if you are genetically predisposed to it but at least do what you can to minimise and reduce the appearance of Melasma.
Tags: melasma, skin condition
Skin, Skin Conditions | jan1003 March 31, 2009
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By jj-momscashblog, April 7, 2009 @ 10:04 pm
Just came across your blog and read profile in blog/catalog. This post especially hit home as I had suffered from Melasma in the pass. I had heard of it called “mother’s moss”. Some women get this darkening of the skin in diff. areas before or during their pregnancy. But as you said it can have a lot to do with hormonal changes. I have since seen no signs of it, thank goodness, it can be very troublesome and nothing covers it up. I did try Retin A which did work well, and I had heard that Lemon juice works well to bleach it out. The key however is to make sure you use a really good sunscreen when going outside.
By Jane - Anti aging & Skin Care, May 29, 2009 @ 2:01 am
Diet has a huge effect on skin health…many skin conditions can be solved through ones choice of foods.
Some suggestions:
1. Add Whole Grains - Choose whole grain products over refined. Have brown rice instead of white or make your own 50:50 combination.
2. An Apple a Day - Have an apple, skin on, as a snack.
3. Eat Cauliflower - Try this delicious Roasted Cauliflower recipe!
4. High-fiber snacks - Snack on nuts, seeds, and dried fruit, such as dates, figs, and prunes.
5. Try a “Prune Power” Smoothie - Prunes are a great source of fiber. Start your day with this tasty Prune Power smoothie.
6. Eat Beans and Legumes - Open a can of your favorite beans or legumes. Rinse them well and add them to your meal.
7. Ground Flaxseeds - For any easy fiber boost, sprinkle ground flaxseeds (available at health food stores) on rice, salads, oatmeal, or any other meal. Store flaxseeds in the fridge.