Changing hormones, particularly the excess of estrogen and progesterone, is the main cause of melasma during pregnancy. See a board-certified dermatologist to figure out the best and safest option for your skin. Y. ou can also be sure to eat a healthy, skin-friendly diet that contains plenty of nutrients and vitamin D. Foods that fit the bill include eggs (only if theyre fully cooked), yogurt, meat (fully cooked), fish high in fatty acids (also fully cooked), and mushrooms. Melasma can develop at any time during your pregnancy, however. It is common, harmless and some treatments may help. Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care. Use the treatment and management advice from your dermatologist or another healthcare provider. Melasma is a typically chronic disorder. Learn more aboutour editorial and medical review policies. Accessed 7/23/20. However, it can make people self-conscious about their appearance. Bolanca I, Bolanca Z, Kuna K, Vukovi A, Tuckar N, Herman R, Grubisi G. Chloasmathe mask of pregnancy. But you may be able to avoid the factors listed above which make melasma worse. Unfortunately, there is no definitive treatment that will automatically make melasma disappear. When you are outside, reapply sunscreen once every two hours. Many compacts come in a wide range of colors for all skin tones. Adding a skin condition like melasma to the mix can be frustrating, especially if it's making you self-conscious about your appearance. 2020;1(2):65-67. doi:10.5606/jebms.2020.75614. The darkened spots probably will fade within a year after delivery, and your skin should return to its normal shade, although sometimes the changes never completely disappear. They can look similar! Always be on the lookout for any allergic reactions. Topical therapy using tyrosinase inhibitors prevents new pigment formations by stopping the formation of melanin (the dark color). Cat is a linguistic alchemist and expert wordsmith who has written and edited for some of the world's biggest brands. An Bras Dermatol. That said, prescribing instructions note that it should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Chemical peels and lasers may cause the surface layers of skin to die, cause post-procedure hyperpigmentation, and cause hypertrophic scars. Melasma is a harmless skin condition. It usually develops in one or more of these areas: 6 Cheeks (both sides) Chin Forehead Bridge of nose Above the upper lip Jawline Melasma can also develop on your arms or neck, though it's less common. Your. Melasma is thought to be primarily related to; external sun exposure, external hormones like birth control pills, and internal hormonal changes during pregnancy. Related: Skin color needs to be factored in when discussing skin diseases. This also tends to happen in areas where friction is common, such as your underarms and inner thighs. There are two main causes of melasma: radiation, whether ultraviolet, visible light, or infrared (heat) light; and hormones. Regrettably, you cant avoid genetics, or stop the skin condition when youre pregnant. When melasma occurs during pregnancy, it is also called chloasma, or "the mask of pregnancy."Pregnant women experience increased estrogen, progesterone, and melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) levels during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. The mask of pregnancy technically called melasma appears when a steep rise in estrogen and progesterone levels stimulates excess melanin production, also known as hyperpigmentation. Melasma. What Causes a Melasma Mustache and How to Treat It, Your Guide to a Pregnancy-Safe Skin Care Routine, Why You May Get Skin Tags During Pregnancy, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, What Are the Symptoms of Hyperovulation?, Pregnancy Friendly Recipe: Creamy White Chicken Chili with Greek Yogurt, What You Should Know About Consuming Turmeric During Pregnancy, Pregnancy-Friendly Recipe: Herby Gruyre Frittata with Asparagus and Sweet Potatoes, The Best Stretch Mark Creams and Belly Oils for Pregnancy in 2023. Undated. Coll Antropol. Wide brimmed hats are your best friend. You may notice your nipples/areolas, armpits, or genitals become darker. Yes, this also applies to tanning beds or any other environment where you would be exposed to UVA and UVB rays. The mechanism that causes Melasma is not well understood, but there is a strong correlation between hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause, ovarian cysts, etc. This means that its long-lasting (three months or more). The best way to treat melasma is with a bleaching regimen such as hydroquinone. Although its a physically harmless skin condition, we know that it can be bothersome, even to the point of making you feel self-conscious in social settings. It is supremely sensitive to the sun, worsening with relatively minimal exposure, cautions Dr. Belkin. Do this by avoiding the sun, tanning beds, LED screens, irritating soaps and birth control that includes hormones. Skin care products that irritate your skin. Melasma appears most commonly on your cheeks, nose, chin, above the upper lip and the forehead. I look for symmetry, since it would be unusual to have melasma only or much worse on one side of the face.. One of the only topical lightening ingredients thats considered safe to use during pregnancy, azelaic acid hasnt been linked to birth defects in animal studies. Here are ways of reducing melasma on the face during pregnancy: 1. This educational content is not medical or diagnostic advice. Your hair and skin may also go through a transformation for the better or worse. 2019. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved, Verywell Family uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. If youre susceptible to pregnancy melasma, unprotected sun exposure can worsen it. (Other hormonal alterations, such as birth control medication and hormonal replacement therapy can also trigger melasma in nonpregnant people.). Remember that it's likely to go away after giving birth. Birth control, specifically oral contraceptive pills that contain estrogen and progesterone. If youre exercising, try avoiding peak sun hours in your area, generally the middle of the day. Dermal melasma is light brown or bluish, with blurred borders. A dermatologist can accurately diagnose your condition using a Woods lamp, which helps show whether a skin condition is bacterial, fungal, or otherwise concerning. 2. Melasma is common, normal and harmless, but it can be bothersome. 3) Removing the melanin already present in the surface of the skin. Your skin is your barricade. How to Prevent and Treat Melasma During Pregnancy While there are no specific studies on these methods for chloasma, the following topical treatments may help: Since melasma may also be the result of hormonal imbalances, you may improve matters by giving yourself some much-needed TLC. Verywell Family's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Melasma is especially common in darker-skinned women or those of Asian and African descent, who have more pigment in their skin than fair-skinned people. To start treatment, see your healthcare provider as soon as possible when you see signs of melasma. They usually fade in the first few months after . Your healthcare provider may administer the test. It usually develops in one or more of these areas: Cheeks . Melasma may start at any point in your pregnancy, though it most commonly begins in the second or third trimester. Melasma Signs, Causes, Treatment, and Cure - MedicineNet 5 How to Prevent Melasma. There are three types of melasma and they have to do with the depth of the pigment. It doesnt itch or hurt, and it doesnt become malignant. Prevalence and awareness of melasma during pregnancy There are some procedures that your dermatologist can do to improve your melasma. Pregnancy melasma, also known as a " pregnancy mask," is an extremely common condition that causes skin hyperpigmentation (i.e. It also helps regulate your body temperature, prevent hydration and feel sensations like the warmth of the stove, the fur on your dogs belly and the pressure of someone elses hand holding yours. If you're seeking a preventive, we've gathered a few of the best stretch mark creams for pregnancy. Are the soaps Im using right now aggravating my melasma (come with a list if you need to)? Ultraviolet and infrared radiation from the sun are key in making melasma worse. BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. The same goes for makeup you may use to conceal the dark areas. Other possible causes of melasma include: Melasma causes light brown, dark brown, and/or bluish patches or freckle-like spots on your skin. A few alternative remedies, like turmeric and aloe vera, have shown at least some success at improving melasma. Melasma: Treatment, Causes & Prevention - Cleveland Clinic ), (https://dermnetnz.org/topics/drug-induced-photosensitivity/), (https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/melasma-overview), (https://health.gov/our-work/food-nutrition/2015-2020-dietary-guidelines/guidelines/appendix-12/), (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279255/#:~:text=What%20does%20skin%20do%3F,as%20germs%20and%20toxic%20substances. Call your provider if you have changes in skin pigmentation as well as pain, tenderness, redness, or bleeding, or if you notice any changes in the color, shape, or size of a mole. (2020). Sometimes, however, it persists. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/melasma-overview [Accessed September 2020], UpToDate. Fortunately, melasma typically fades after about three months. Melasma can be slow to respond to treatment. Pregnancy Melasma (Pregnancy Mask): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment Its only symptom is the gradual development of mottled dark spots on your skin, typically on the forehead, cheeks, nose, and upper lip, though it can also appear on the forearms. They can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the stomach, hips, breasts, and thighs. It largely affects people who were assigned female at birtha whopping 90% of them 1 during their reproductive years, when they're 20 to 40 years old. However, to keep your skin healthy in general, try a skin-healthy diet of foods rich in Vitamin D: Those with melasma are more likely to have a thyroid disease. Safety of skin care products during pregnancy. Melanin in the dermis within melanophages. Melasma is a skin condition characterized by brown or blue-gray patches or freckle-like spots. Some of the topical options include hydroquinone, corticosteroids, and tretinoin. U.S. Food & Drug Administration. Melasma is a skin condition causing uneven, darkened areas or spots that look like freckles. No. Privacy Policy Ask your healthcare provider if youre concerned about another condition. We'll tell you what to avoid and some good, Skin tags are common during pregnancy and can be painful. Its caused by hormonal changes that take place during pregnancy, which affect the skins pigment-producing melanocytes. Wearing a good pregnancy-safe sunscreen with SPF 30+ is key. Commonly occurring during pregnancy, melasma is sometimes referred to as chloasma, or the mask of pregnancy because dark patches on the face can resemble a mask. What causes these skin changes during pregnancy? What Bodily Changes Can You Expect During Pregnancy? darkening), especially among people who are pregnant. Why do dark spots and patches appear on the skin during pregnancy? It might be appropriate for you to use a different medication to avoid the side effects. Some studies link melasma to deficiency in iron and possibly vitamin B12. Handel AC, Miot LDB, Miot HA. Melasma After Pregnancy (Causes, Prevention, Treatments) In the meantime, take good care of your skin and talk to your healthcare provider about possible pregnancy-safe treatments if the spots are really bothering you. A dermatologist specializes in skin conditions. Between 1.5% and 33% of the population may get melasma and it happens more often during a woman's reproductive years, and rarely happens during puberty. Estrogen coupled with blood vessel growth, sun exposure, genetics, and hormones deposit pigment in the skin. All rights reserved. Most importantly, try and remind yourself that you likely notice and dwell on your pregnancy melasma more than anyone else, and that youre far from alone in experiencing it. Melasma can appear at any time during pregnancy, but it develops most often during the second or third trimester when certain hormone levels are increasing. Its impossible to prevent melasma with certainty, but there are ways to reduce your risk or minimize the appearance of your melasma. Breast Changes During Pregnancy Is there a specific sunscreen you recommend? They can be safely used with topical medications, but only by specialists who have experience treating melasma. Skin conditions during pregnancy. 1 But certain conditions, like postpartum acne and dry skin, may be caused by the hormonal changes that happen during breastfeeding. Will I still have melasma after my pregnancy? The good news: Pregnancy mask is usually temporary and fades after delivery or, in some cases, after you finish breastfeeding. Some people may feel embarrassed to allow others to see their skin condition. It often presents as a darkening in skin color around the mid or upper forehead, lateral cheeks, and upper lip. Is it sunlight? 9500 Euclid Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44195 |, Important Updates + Notice of Vendor Data Event, (https://www.bad.org.uk/shared/get-file.ashx?id=169&itemtype=document), (https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/skin-disorders/pigment-disorders/melasma#:~:text=Melasma%20is%20dark%20brown%20patches,an%20examination%20of%20the%20skin. Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone. But, keep in mind, once you experience this patchwork discoloration, youre more susceptible to it recurring if you become pregnant again. In pregnant women, it most often appears on the: Forehead Cheeks Upper lip Nose Chin Other skin changes often occur with melasma during pregnancy, including: Darkened nipples, armpits, and genitals Look for products that say fragrance-free, for sensitive skin, or non-comedogenic on the label. Chloasma may also be worsened by hormonal imbalances that may have been present even before pregnancy. At this time no medication can completely prevent melasma. Dendritic (branched) pigmented melanocytes. Since the sun may trigger the development of more pigment, its a good idea to stay out of its rays, especially for long periods of time. Can Fam Physician. This increased workload can cause shortness of breath and fatigue, and it is essential to take breaks and rest when needed. Can Melasma Be Prevented During Pregnancy? Goodarzi A, et al. 2021. If it doesnt, pursue treatment options with your healthcare provider. Her favorite pastimes include experimenting with new foods, libations, and restaurants, as well as traveling the world with her two college-age children, husband, extended family, and friends. It protects your bones, muscles, organs and everything else from the cold, from germs, sunshine, moisture, toxic substances, injury and more. Spots of melasma can sometimes be mistaken for freckles but they are not the same skin condition. Melasma is a skin condition in which some skin cells become darker. American Academy of Dermatology Association. In pregnant people, melasma often goes away on its own within a few months after giving birth. They can help you with management and treatment of your melasma. And some treatment methods may not be safe or effective to use when pregnant. It's common to develop blotchy spots of darker skin when you're pregnant, a condition called melasma or chloasma. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Int J Womens Dermatol. Look for noncomedogenic or hypoallergenic foundations, concealers, powders, and other products. She works full-time as a senior content manager at a multinational digital agency. Were explaining why this occurs, below. Melasma, which causes patchy areas of discoloration that sometimes resemble freckles, is most likely to appear on the cheeks, but it can also develop elsewhere. Melasma during pregnancy is a skin condition in which melanocytes, the skin cells that produce melanin, produce more pigment than usual. If your skin is still blotchy a few months after giving birth and it's bothering you, talk to your healthcare provider or a dermatologist about treatment options for melasma. Who is at risk of melasma? Occasionally, you might get it on the chest or arms, but that's unusual. 6.3 Paula's Choice facial exfoliant. Many women notice their hair becomes thicker during pregnancy. "Hydroquinone at 2-4% works miracles for women with a pregnancy mask," Dr. Zenovia shares. 2021. Rachel Nazarian, MD, FAAD, is a board-certified dermatologist seeing patients in New York, N.Y. She practices various aspects of dermatology, including cosmetic treatments, laser, injectables, skin cancer screening, general dermatology, dermatologic surgery, and body contouring. This doesnt mean you have to stay indoors when the sun is out, though. Treatments include topical medications like: Your doctor may also recommend certain acids that lighten the skin, alone or in combination. Make-up labeled as non-comedogenic or hypoallergenic is less likely to irritate skin and worsen melasma. Safety of skin care products during pregnancy, Utilization of Laser Therapy During Pregnancy: A Systematic Review of the Maternal and Fetal Effects Reported From 1960 to 2017, Sunscreen: How to Help Protect Your Skin from the Sun. Mix a solution of a half of fresh lemon juice and half of cucumber juice or water to lighten top . Choose a method of birth control that doesnt include hormones. What Helps With Melasma During Pregnancy? This skin disorder can affect your social life if youre feeling self-conscious about it. Dealing with melasma during pregnancy can be a challenge, but it's not impossible. Medications that may cause or worsen melasma. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Very common lumps found among women during pregnancy are clogged milk ducts. Shipping, Melasma During Pregnancy: Causes, Prevention and Treatment, Non-pregnancy related hormonal imbalances. Always listen to the advice of your healthcare provider and follow your treatment plan carefully. Exactly How to Treat the Skin Discoloration. Accessed 7/23/2020. Nearly 50 to 70% of pregnant women show signs of a " mask of pregnancy". While pregnant, be careful to only use topical and oral treatments that are approved for pregnant women. Sun exposure plays a role too. Skin hyperpigmentation during pregnancy is very common. Anderson Cancer Center. Again, there are a variety of factors at play when it comes to darkening pigment. Pregnancy comes with a host of emotions and physical changes. Ali, S, Bali S, P S. Hormonal evaluation in females having melasma. The darker color usually fades after pregnancy. Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading ourmedical review and editorial policy. Its always best to speak with your healthcare provider. They include medications, makeup, and cosmetics that irritate your skin or make it more sensitive to sunlight, the blue light emitted from your devices, and underlying thyroid disease. Only a dermatologist will be able to tell you for sure if you have pregnancy melasma. She served as Chief Resident at one of the nations top dermatology programs The University of Texas at Houston and M.D. In what stage of pregnancy does melasma occur? When you are pregnant, your body shows several changes. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2020. Unmasking the Causes and Treatments of Melasma, Treatment of Melasma and the Use of Intense Pulsed Light: A Review, Topical Vitamin C and the Skin: Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Applications, A Review of Laser and Light Therapy in Melasma, New Changes in Pregnancy and Lactation Labelling: Review of Dermatologic Drugs, Melasma: An Up-to-Date Comprehensive Review, reviewed by our medical review board and team of experts.