Facial hyperpigmentation (Melasma) is a common skin problem. They manifest themselves as dark spots on the skin, mainly on the face. They are also called osteoma or "mask of pregnancy" when it occurs in pregnant women. The affliction affects women much more often than men (according to the American Academy of Dermatology, 90 percent of people who develop melasma are women).

Symptoms

The areas affected by hyperpigmentation are darker than the normal skin tone. They usually occur on the face and are symmetrical, with matching marks on both sides of the face. The affliction can also involve Other areas of the body that are frequently exposed to the sun.

Dark spots usually appear on:

• cheeks
• forehead
• back of the nose
• chin
• may also occur on the neck and forearms

Skin discoloration does not cause any physical harm, but you may feel uncomfortable with your appearance.

If you notice the above symptoms, contact your primary care physician. He or she may be able to refer you to a dermatologist, a doctor who specializes in treating skin diseases.

Causes and factors of hyperpigmentation

It is not entirely clear what causes hyperpigmentation. People with darker complexions are more susceptible than those with lighter complexions. Estrogen and progesterone sensitivity are also associated with the condition. This means that birth control pills, pregnancy and hormone therapy can trigger them. They are also thought to be caused by stress and thyroid dysfunction.

In addition, sun exposure can cause and exacerbate the appearance of hyperpigmentation because ultraviolet rays affect the cells that control pigment (melanocytes).

How is facial hyperpigmentation diagnosed?

A visual examination of the affected area is often enough to diagnose melasma. To rule out specific causes, your doctor may also order certain tests.

One of the testing techniques is the Wood's lamp test. This is a special type of light that "sticks" to your skin. It allows a health care professional to check for bacterial and fungal infections and determine how many layers of skin are affected by melasma. To check for serious skin conditions, it can also perform a biopsy. This involves removing a small piece of damaged skin for testing.

Are facial blemishes treatable?

In some women, melasma disappears on its own. This usually happens when it is caused by pregnancy or birth control pills.

There are creams that the doctor can prescribe that can lighten the skin. He may also prescribe topical steroids to help lighten the affected areas. If that doesn't work, chemical peels, dermabrasion and microdermabrasion are possible. These treatments remove the upper layers of skin and can help lighten dark spots.

However, the above procedures do not guarantee that melasma will not return, and in some cases melasma is not completely removable. You may need to return for follow-up appointments and follow certain skin treatment rules to reduce the risk of recurrence. These rules include minimizing sun exposure and wearing sunscreen daily.

Coping and living with facial hyperpigmentation

While not all cases of melasma will resolve with treatment, there are things you can do to make sure the condition doesn't worsen and minimize the risk of new discoloration. These include:

• Use of makeup to cover areas of discoloration
• taking prescribed medication
• wearing sunscreen every day with SPF 30
• Wearing a wide-brimmed hat that covers or provides shade for your face;
• Wearing protective clothing is especially important if you will be out in the sun for long periods of time.

We also suggest using preparations from our Autobiography Line. The active ingredients contained in the products of this line support the natural functions of the skin, stimulate cell renewal, even out the color and improve the regenerative processes.

The entry is based on and the result of a translation: Melasma Photo by Apostolos Vamvouras on Unsplash