Comprehensive Guide to Melasma: Causes, Types, and Effective Treatments

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Melasma diagnosis and treatment are crucial for effective management. Regular sunscreen use and sun exposure protection are also essential for preventing and managing the condition.

FREMONT, CA: Melasma is a skin condition associated with dark, discolored patches, mostly affecting the face. The two main causes of melasma are radiation and hormones. It is more prevalent in women than men and is also known as "the mask of pregnancy" due to its commonality in pregnant women. While it is painless and harmless and typically goes away in a few months, it is bothersome for many. 

A few ways to tackle this dark patch include skin-lightening medications and avoiding the sun to prevent the condition from worsening. Understanding different types of melasma is essential for their treatment and effective management.

Types of melasma and how they should be treated

There are three types of melasma. A black light is used to identify and categorize them based on their color, darkness and how well they respond to treatments.

Epidermal melasma

Epidermal melasma is dark brown and affects the uppermost layer of the skin, known as the epidermis. It is well-identified and can be easily seen under black light. Because it is close to the surface, epidermal melasma responds effectively to skin treatments.

Treatment: This type of melasma is easier to identify and diagnose. Topical treatments such as hydroquinone, tretinoin, and corticosteroids are the most effective. Additionally, chemical peels and laser treatments can be used to tackle this.

Dermal melisma

Dermal melasma is less defined than epidermal melasma and presents as a light brown or bluish patch. This does not appear any differently under black light and is hard to diagnose and treat as it develops in deep layers of the skin (dermis).

Treatment: Dermal melasma is difficult to identify under a black light, making the treatment more challenging. Topical treatments may have limited effectiveness, and laser treatments might be considered, although results can vary.

Mixed melasma

This is the most common type of melasma and features a combination of bluish and brown patches on the epidermis and dermis layers of the skin. It shows a mixed pattern under black light and little response to treatments.

Treatment: Treatment for mixed melasma often involves a combination of topical treatments and procedures, such as chemical peels or laser therapy, to address both superficial and deeper pigmentation.