Melasma

What Causes Melasma?

Understanding the answer to “What is Melasma?” is essential to improving diagnosis and helping patients manage their condition effectively. Some causes of melasma include:

Hormonal changes:  

Melasma is often triggered by hormonal changes in the body, such as pregnancy or the use of birth control pills. These changes can stimulate the production of melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) in the skin, leading to the development of melasma patches or melasma spots.  

Sun exposure:  

Excessive sun exposure is another major cause of melasma pigmentation. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can increase the production of melanin in the skin, leading to the development of dark patches on the skin and melasma sun damage on the face.  

Genetics:  

Some people are more prone to developing melasma due to genetic factors. If someone in your family has melasma skin, you may be at a higher risk of developing the condition.

Skin irritation:

Certain skincare products or cosmetic procedures can irritate the skin and trigger the development of melasma. Chemical peels, laser treatments, and harsh exfoliants could all possibly cause melasma pigmentation if your skin doesn’t react well to the treatment.

Medications:  

Certain medications, such as antiepileptics, can lead to the development of melasma patches. This is because these drugs can stimulate the production of melanocytes in the skin.

Thyroid disorders:  

People with thyroid disorders may be at a higher risk of developing melasma, as these disorders can affect the hormones responsible for the production of melanin in the skin. Additionally, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) can lead to hyperpigmentation melasma due to an overproduction of androgens. High levels of androgens can stimulate the melanocytes in the skin, causing them to produce excess pigment and PCOS melasma.