Melanin is the skin pigment that gives the skin its color. A lot of reasons can be accounted for either an excess or a lack of this pigment in the skin, causing the skin problem often referred to as skin pigmentation. Environmental, hormonal, or some genetic issues can cause excess production of melanin. In medical terms, this condition is known as melasma. This skin condition causes dark patches on the skin. It may develop on the cheeks, forehead, and other areas around the face. This condition is more likely to develop among individuals with a family history of melasma or pregnant ladies. Melasma can also occur due to serious medical conditions. Hence, it requires a proper medical examination by a dermatologist to determine the root cause of the problem. In this blog Dr. Niti Gaur, an expert dermatologist at Citrine Clinic, Gurugram will help to debunk the myths surrounding melasma and about the treatments that help one to get a clear melasma-free skin.

Myth: Melasma occurs due to pregnancy

Fact: ​Melasma is also known as the “mask of pregnancy,” and changes in hormonal levels might play a role in melasma, which may explain its occurrence during pregnancy. However, this condition does not occur exclusively in pregnant women. It may also be found in a few women using birth control pills. Hormonal therapy may also lead to melasma. Men may also develop melasma due to excessive sun exposure, hormonal imbalance, or any medical disease. So the main reason for melasma to appear is hormonal imbalance and not just pregnancy.

Myth: Applying sunscreen only while going out in the sun helps to prevent melasma

Fact: ​This misconception is the most common reason for pigmentation of any kind in the first place. Even when it is not sunny outside, harmful UV light is present. On days like these, not applying sunscreen leaves the skin exposed to damage. Also, nowadays we spend a lot of time in front of the screens (mobiles, laptops) which emit blue rays which can also affect the skin. Hence, applying sunscreen is a must in both indoor & outdoor places.

Myth: All lasers can treat melasma

Fact: ​Specific lasers and specific settings are used for different kinds of pigmentation, as the wrong laser wavelength or settings can make the initial problem worse. Another important factor for laser treatment is the right diagnosis. Hence, skin analysis by a dermatologist is a must before proceeding with the laser treatment for melasma. Needless to say, one must get the laser treatment done only in a reputed clinic where the procedure is performed by trained laser specialists under the guidance of a dermatologist. At Citrine Clinic we use only FDA-approved lasers that are safe and effective for all types of skin.

Myth: Pigmentation is genetic and can’t be prevented

Fact: Pigmentation is the result of three main factors namely sun exposure, genetics, and the natural process of aging. One may be genetically prone to suffer from melasma and pigmentation-related issues. The best way to prevent it is by maintaining a strict sun protection routine that includes daily use of sunscreen and getting expert help. After that, a maintenance regimen should be followed as prescribed by the dermatologist. Many advanced treatments and medical-grade serums containing antioxidants help to brighten one’s complexion and even out the skin tone. The active ingredients in various creams and serums have pigmentation-lightening properties.

Myth: Effects of the treatment remain forever.

Fact: ​A variety of factors cause melasma and there are chances of recurrence after many treatments since it is related to hormonal imbalance and sun exposure. A healthy lifestyle and regular use of sunscreen are recommended. And, if any underlying medical condition is causing melasma then it must be treated in the first place to bid goodbye to melasma. At Citrine Clinic we have advanced melasma treatments that follow a holistic approach and besides treating the condition these treatments also minimize the chances of recurrence.

Treatment for Melasma

This skin condition goes away on its own, usually following the pregnancy or when a woman stops using birth control pills. But as explained above, in some cases, the pigmentation persists. Treatments such as prescribed creams, laser resurfacing, chemical peels, laser toning, and microdermabrasion can help show long-term results.

Understanding melasma and proper diagnosis of the causative agent is the initial step to prevent and treat pigmentation issues successfully. For more information about the best melasma treatment in Gurgaon reach us at +91 9319581808 or drop an email at ​info@citrineclinic.com​.