Melasma is a kind of skin condition characterized by discoloration of the facial skin at different areas that have been exposed to sun rays. According to various researches conducted on the subject, people with Asian and darker skin tones are more prone to developing melasma in comparison to others. This conditions has been known for many years and can be treated using a number of ways.

Melasma can be broadly classified into three different types, namely, dermal (blue grey), epidermal (brown), or a mix of both kinds (brown – grey). Though it is a lot easier to prevent melasma as opposed to treating it; but a large number of treatment options have also come up, which have proved to be extremely effective in eliminating all signs of skin discoloration or darkening on as well as around the face.

Major causes of Melasma

Melasma can be caused due to a number of factors. Both severe and mild kinds are usually associated with some of these factors:

•    Melasma is often associated with progesterone and oestrogen, which is commonly found in pregnant women, women undergoing hormone replacement therapy, and taking oral contraceptives.

•    Exposure to direct rays of the skin is a major risk factor leading to melanoma.

•    Hormonal imbalance can also result in Melasma.

•    All kinds of lights include fluorescent lights, UVA lights and even computer screen can lead to onset of this condition.

•    Genetic factors.

•    Poor immune system

•    Nutritional deficiency

•    Certain medications

At least one of the above mentioned conditions can be found in all Melanoma sufferers. Almost 92 percent of women suffer from this condition at some time or the other, particularly the ones with Asian skin tones and pregnant women. One needs to pay close attention to prevent, treat and minimize this condition.

Treatments and Cures for Melasma

The course of treatment for melasma depends on the kind of melasma you are suffering from. Both dermal and epidermal melasma respond to different treatments in different ways. Thus, it is extremely important to first diagnose the condition accurately by visiting a dermatologist before deciding on any course of treatment.

Generally, dermal melasma is known to be extremely resistant, whereas epidermal melasma can be treated quite easily if the treatment is followed persistently. Broadly speaking, the best ways to minimize both kinds of the condition include:

1.  Stay away from the sun’s ray to make sure that any dark patches that already exist do not get further darkened.

2.  Apply sun block two times a day having an SPF factor of at least 30 or more so that it protect your skin against both UVA as well as UVB rays of the sun.

3.  Apply facial creams which are designed especially to counter Melasma along with the active ingredients found in sun blocks.

Treating Melasma with Natural Methods

MSM sulphur can be taken in the form of oral supplements to reduce the evident signs of Melasma. MSM or methysulphorymethane is a kind of natural sulphur that has produced satisfactory results in a large number of melasma sufferers.

Sun blocks are known to be extremely effective in preventing as well as minimizing the appearance of dark patches and spots on the face. They should preferably be used along with other methods of treating melasma.

A large number of skin lightening creams are manufactured especially for melasma patients and are suitable to be used on all kinds of melasma skin discoloration.

Certain camouflage cosmetics can be used to cover over the discolored skin caused due to melasma as well.

Pros and Cons of Natural Treatment Methods of Melasma

Pros

There are numerous natural methods for treating all kinds of illnesses and disorders. Most health care professionals recommend natural methods for treating melasma as they are the healthiest and safest treatments available. All the ingredients used in natural treatment options are completely harmless and do not cause any damage to the skin. All natural treatment methods are extracted from trees and plants and are great cures in themselves.

Most of the time, natural methods of treating melasma are cheaper in comparison to other methods. Also, after achieving the desired results, one can stop using the treatment completely without any side-effects.

Cons

Natural methods of treating melasma usually take a long time to work and are unable to produce any immediate results. This is the main reason behind its downfall. However, those who are patient are able to see results within 3 to 6 months.

Treating Melasma with Non-Natural Methods

Bleaching creams can be effectively used for treating surface melasma. However, the bleaches that are commonly found in the market are quite mild and work to improve ‘uneven skin tone’ but not melasma specifically. Thus, it is important to look for bleaching creams that are designed specifically for melasma.

Topical application of tertinoin and hydroquinone inhibit the effect of melanin. However, they also lighten the area surrounding the affected skin and result in redness.

Laser treatments are also known to be quite effective for treatment of hyperpigmentation. However, British Association of Dermatologist advocates that it should not be used for treating Melasma.

The glycolic acid that can be found in chemical peels also works to alleviate the condition. However, be careful while using them as it can lead to scarring as well as hypo-pigmentation, in which light spots emerge on the skin’s surface.

Pros and Cons of Non-Natural Treatment Methods of Melasma

Pros

Chemicals and acids are used for eliminating dark patches and skin discolorations in order to achieve quick results. These methods do not cause any harm to the skin if the acids are used in a small concentration. Though they produce desirable results for most people, they can lead to certain side-effects as well.

Cons

Acids and chemicals used in this form of treatment can have a negative effect on the layers of our skin. The new skin formed is also affected due to these acids and chemicals, even if it is not immediately evident.

In many cases, the method of chemical peeling is used in which the existing layer of the skin is broken and peeled in order to get new skin. Though this process does not guarantee effective results, but if completely in the right manner, it can produce a fresh new layer of skin.

The cost of non-natural methods of treating melasma usually cost between £400 and £5,000.

Another disadvantage of this method of treating melasma is its side-effects. Side effects are common in case the skin of a sufferer is sensitive to ingredients like hydroquinone. Common side effects include darker patches, skin peeling and itching on and around the face.

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