beneath the breasts during late pregnancy. The most common type, mixed melasma, is exactly what it sounds likeits both brown and bluish in appearance, has a mixed pattern under black light, and is somewhat responsive to treatment. Melasma is a highly common skin conditionand the majority of cases are among pregnant people. During pregnancy or while youre breastfeeding, you should also avoid at-home peels, bleaches or other chemical-based lightening treatments, since they can all potentially penetrate the skin. During your pregnancy, avoid spending too much time in the sun. But you may be able to avoid the factors listed above which make melasma worse. We even asked a couple of board-certified dermatologists to weigh in. Ask your healthcare provider if youre concerned about another condition. Objective To determine the prevalence and awareness of melasma during pregnancy at the Shahed University Hospitals of Tehran, Iran. Your skin color and type may make this condition more or less noticeable. Fluctuations in certain hormones can cause melasma, which is why it commonly occurs during pregnancy. Int J Womens Dermatol. Otherwise, speak with your doctor about the options for treatment and the benefits and risks of each. You may see a line (linea nigra) extending from the pubic area over the belly, or darkening of the skin all over the body. Some people have melasma for years or their entire lives. Vitamin C is used in skin care as a strong antioxidant, especially in regard to protecting the skin from sun damage. Sometimes, however, it persists. Melasma is more common during pregnancy, affecting 15% to 50% of pregnant people. American Academy of Family Physicians. Lasers, which can be irritating especially during pregnancy, are no-nos too. They usually fade in the first few months after . Then apply your foundation to the rest of your face, avoiding the patches. What to Expect follows strict reporting guidelines and uses only credible sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions and highly respected health organizations. Bolanca I, Bolanca Z, Kuna K, Vukovi A, Tuckar N, Herman R, Grubisi G. Chloasmathe mask of pregnancy. A safer choice would be azeleic acid which is completely safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. 6.5 CeraVe Vitamin C Serum. Women are more likely to get melasma than men: about 10% of those who get melasma are men, 90% women. See a board-certified dermatologist to figure out the best and safest option for your skin. Anderson Cancer Center. Shipping, Melasma During Pregnancy: Causes, Prevention and Treatment, Non-pregnancy related hormonal imbalances. This means that its long-lasting (three months or more). What makes breast cancer come back? Very common lumps found among women during pregnancy are clogged milk ducts. However, there are skin cancers that may mimic melasma, so seeing your dermatologist is often recommended to confirm the correct diagnosis. She served as Chief Resident at one of the nations top dermatology programs The University of Texas at Houston and M.D. This discoloration is usually symmetrical and is most common on the cheeks and nose, but its also found on the forehead and upper lip. Melasma is a super common skin condition characterized by hyperpigmentation on certain areas of the face, explains Dan Belkin, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at the New York Dermatology Group in NYC. Melasma is a harmless skin condition. Heat can trigger melasma by causing the blood vessels in the skin to dilate and send signals to create pigmentation. (2008). These hormones are thought to contribute to your melasma. If you experience these signs or develop severe irritation, you may be dealing with another condition. Fairer-skinned people are less likely to be affected by melasma than those with darker brown skin or those who tan well. (This can occur whether or not you choose to breastfeed, because estrogen and progesterone are not the hormones involved in lactationthose would be prolactin and oxytocin.). Treatment once you have finished breast- feeding can take the normal course, which normally begins with topical bleaching . Study of Influence of Blue Light Emitted by Computer/Television Screens on Melasma. Use the treatment and management advice from your dermatologist or another healthcare provider. You may need to use different topicals or chemical peels to help get rid of stubborn pigment. At this time there is no way to remove dermal pigment. ), document.getElementById("ak_js_2").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()), document.getElementById("ak_js_3").setAttribute("value",(new Date()).getTime()), 2023 Westlake Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. Do I have melasma or another type of skin disorder? Melasma will likely fade within three months after youre no longer pregnant. They are generally tan or brownish in color, but can look blue-gray on people with naturally darker skin color. The agents listed above rarely eradicate all of the melasma. American Academy of Dermatology Association. Melasma can occur at any point in a pregnancy, although it typically develops during the second or third trimester. You're also more likely to develop melasma if it runs in your family. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Women commonly experience changes in the appearance of the skin during pregnancy, including: dark spots on the breasts, nipples and inner thighs melasma linea nigra stretch marks acne spider. Find advice, support and good company (and some stuff just for fun). Mix a solution of a half of fresh lemon juice and half of cucumber juice or water to lighten top . 2003 Oct;1(1): e27. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. Spots of melasma can sometimes be mistaken for freckles but they are not the same skin condition. Melasma that arises during pregnancy may go away on its own, but it wont happen overnight. The second path to take is topical medications. If the skin changes are bothersome, consider another birth control option. The three types are: Melasma is not cancerous, a sign of cancer, or a skin condition that turns into cancer. If your hyperpigmentation is accompanied by consistent itching, irritation or discomfort, its important to note that these are not symptoms of melasma. Melasma can be managed, but often not entirely cured, in the sense that in someone who is predisposed, it can always come back, Dr. Belkin cautions. There are various lifestyle changes you can try to prevent the condition from progressing during pregnancy. They can help you with management and treatment of your melasma. Your soap? If you have the dermal pigment, it may take longer to fade away than if you have the epidermal pigment. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Most treatments take time to work, so the spots will fade gradually. If youve noticed new, dark skin splotches on your face, youve probably got melasma which is often called the mask of pregnancy. But youre not alone this condition affects an estimated 50 to 75 percent of expectant mothers. Sunlight: When sunlight hits our skin, it triggers the body to produce more melanin. Wilkerson EC, Van Acker MM, Bloom BS, Goldberg DJ. This common condition occurs in 50-70% of pregnant women. To determine a treatment plan, your healthcare provider will have to first figure out whats possibly causing the melasma. The most effective way to treat pregnancy melasma is to see your dermatologist as soon as you start to see its hallmark patchwork appear. Why Does Pregnancy Make My Lips and Skin So Dry? Melasma can present with blotches or frecklesusually on the facethat are darker than the rest of your skin tone. How to Identify & Treat a Melasma Mustache, What to Know Before Getting Melasma Laser Treatment, Understanding Pityriasis Rosea vs. Guttate Psoriasis, Hyperpigmentation Around the Mouth: Everything to Know, Skin Discoloration: Causes and Treatments, Melasma: a clinical and epidemiological review, A review of laser and light therapy in melasma. Our expert physicians and surgeons provide a full range of dermatologic, reconstructive and aesthetic treatments options at Cleveland Clinic. Other ways to diagnose melasma involve a special blacklight lamp, called a Woods lamp, which would quite literally shine a light on the different types of melasma we discussed. If youve noticed dark patches of skin on your face, you may have melasma. How much youre out in the sun or even the time of year when youre pregnant may also affect when you first notice it. StatPearls: Melasma. What skin solutions are off-limits during pregnancy? 2) Stopping the transfer of that pigment to the surface of the skin where it appears as dark spots. Chloasma is a cosmetic concern. It doesnt itch or hurt, and it doesnt become malignant. Although most skin-lightening ingredients are off-limits during pregnancy, talk to your doctor about whether you can apply topical azelaic acid to your skin for melasma. Skin Conditions During Pregnancy | ACOG Skin Conditions During Pregnancy Frequently Asked Questions Common Skin Changes Expand All What are some of the common skin changes that happen during pregnancy? When you are outside, reapply sunscreen once every two hours. "Hydroquinone at 2-4% works miracles for women with a pregnancy mask," Dr. Zenovia shares. Try the following home remedies to reduce the appearance of melasma after pregnancy; Mix a solution of half apple cider vinegar and half water to use as toner. It largely affects people who were assigned female at birtha whopping 90% of themduring their reproductive years, when theyre 20 to 40 years old. Melasma is a very common skin disorder, especially among pregnant women. The good news is that this hyperpigmentation likely wont get worse after you deliver your child. Ultraviolet and infrared radiation from the sun are key in making melasma worse. Your dermatologist or other healthcare provider will examine your skin to diagnose melasma. The association between melasma and iron profile: A case-control study. There are some milder products that may fade the spots safely, but don't take or use anything without consulting with your provider. 2015;4:13240-13247. 15% to 50% of pregnant women get it. (Other hormonal alterations, such as birth control medication and hormonal replacement therapy can also trigger melasma in nonpregnant people.). Yes, this also applies to tanning beds or any other environment where you would be exposed to UVA and UVB rays. Occasionally, you might get it on the chest or arms, but that's unusual. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Learn about special offers, current clinical research studies, and more. Its often used to treat hyperpigmentation as well as rosacea and acne during pregnancy and is available in prescription form and over-the-counter gels, foams and creams. Laser is a great option, he shares. It takes a month or two to work, and it may cause burning, stinging, itching or tingling. You may see a line ( linea. And make sure youre getting the right treatment by confirming the diagnosis with your healthcare provider. 2017;3(1):11-20. doi:10.1016/j.ijwd.2017.01.004. Kalayc M. Pregnancy Mask: Melasma. These are red, tender-to-the-touch, hard lumps in your breasts. It mimics discoloration of other skin conditions, and should be diagnosed by a board-certified dermatologist MD/DO to prevent misdiagnosis and incorrect treatments.. the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information. If other treatments haven't helped, a dermatologist can lighten dark spots with laser treatments, but that's not the first option. Look for noncomedogenic or hypoallergenic foundations, concealers, powders, and other products. Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading ourmedical review and editorial policy. Read our, Why Does Melasma Develop During Pregnancy. Accessed 7/23/2020. our editorial and medical review policies, dark line down the center of your abdomen (the linea nigra), Skin Darkening and Discoloration During Pregnancy. Pregnancy melasma is a pretty straightforward skin condition. Heres more about this condition, why it crops up in pregnancy, and how you can treat it safely. Shell also sometimes prescribe oral medication to slow down the rate of re-pigmentation and rebounding. Will I still have melasma after my pregnancy? Melasma: Management https://www.uptodate.com/contents/melasma-management [Accessed September 2020]. Journal of Experimental and Basic Medical Sciences. How many hours of sunlight do you recommend I receive? Hormonal changes: The extra estrogen and progesterone your body makes during pregnancy can trigger melasma. 6.3 Paula's Choice facial exfoliant. Melasma During Pregnancy: Causes and Treatment. After pregnancy, you may ask your dermatologist about other treatments if your melasma doesnt fade on its own. Nearly 50 to 70% of pregnant women show signs of a " mask of pregnancy". Pregnancy comes with a host of emotions and physical changes. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. A dermatologist will be able to perform treatments that your usual healthcare provider may not be able to. 6.6 Naturium vitamin C Complex Face Serum. This pregnancy-friendly spin on traditional chili is packed with the nutrients your body needs when you're expecting. PMID: 30998530. Wearing a good pregnancy-safe sunscreen with SPF 30+ is key. Yes, but use cosmetics that include sunscreen and pay attention to any that may aggravate your melasma by irritating your skin. 2008;32(Suppl 2):139-141. Melanin is what gives skin its color. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're reading. Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Handel AC, Miot LDB, Miot HA. Your epidermis contains cells called melanocytes that store and produce a dark color (pigment) known as melanin. Where are the discolorations located on your body? A dermatologist can accurately diagnose your condition using a Woods lamp, which helps show whether a skin condition is bacterial, fungal, or otherwise concerning. During pregnancy, melasma usually appears on the face as patchy or spotted areas of skin that are tan, brown, or sometimes blue-gray. If the spots don't fade within a few months after having the baby, there are treatments to help fade them. American Academy of Dermatology. Your body goes through tremendous changes during pregnancy. So easy and delicious. Melasma is a very common skin disorder, especially among pregnant women. While not being harmful to the health of either mother or child, pregnancy melasma can be a source of embarrassment for some expecting mothers. Certain types of skin discoloration can be a symptom of skin cancer or other medical problems. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. Melasma. 5 How to Prevent Melasma. This seems to explain why melasma develops on skin that gets the most sunlight like skin on the face, neck, and arms. Learn more aboutour editorial and medical review policies. What is known is that there is a genetic component in the development of melasma. It protects your bones, muscles, organs and everything else from the cold, from germs, sunshine, moisture, toxic substances, injury and more. 6.2 Eucerin Anti-Pigment Reducer Night Cream. Melasma is a skin disorder where the melanocytes (color-producing cells) in your skin produce extra pigment for some reason. What Are Some Ways To Help Cope With Pregnancy Melasma? Another option for sun cover is clothing with or without UV protection, such as SPF rash guards or sun protective clothing. What medications and/or vitamins can I take to help heal my melasma? 1. 2021. They can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the stomach, hips, breasts, and thighs. 2020;1(2):65-67. doi:10.5606/jebms.2020.75614. Learn more about our editorial and medical review policies. 2019 Jun;45(6):818-828. doi: 10.1097/DSS.0000000000001912. It often presents as a darkening in skin color around the mid or upper forehead, lateral cheeks, and upper lip, describes Rachel Nazarian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at the Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC. Women with darker complexions are more likely to have melasma than women with lighter skin. Other possible causes of melasma include: Melasma causes light brown, dark brown, and/or bluish patches or freckle-like spots on your skin. That said, it may take time possibly months for it to completely fade without any targeted treatment. The underlying cause of pregnancy melasma is unknown, beyond an overproduction of melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its color. Dr. Belkin says his pregnancy melasma diagnoses center around the timing of its appearance and its placement. But, keep in mind that it can fade on its own after youre no longer pregnant, and there are other ways to help it along the way. 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. Dr. Nazarian shares that she prefers a multipronged approach to treating pregnancy melasma. 1 But certain conditions, like postpartum acne and dry skin, may be caused by the hormonal changes that happen during breastfeeding. Changing hormones, particularly the excess of estrogen and progesterone, is the main cause of melasma during pregnancy. It usually starts between 20 and 40 years of age. This doesnt mean you have to stay indoors when the sun is out, though. Skin conditions during pregnancy. Look for products that contain zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or other physical blockers (mineral sunscreens) versus those that rely on chemical blockers. Bring up any additional symptoms you have with your doctor. Learn more about this common pregnancy skin change that you may experience when you're expecting. People with more pigment in their skin for example, those of African, North African, Middle Eastern, Latin or Hispanic, Asian, Indian, or Mediterranean descent are more likely to develop chloasma, as they naturally have more active melanin production. Too much screen time? And dont forget a stylish pair of sunglasses the bigger the better. Estrogen and progesterone, which are thought to trigger it, start building after 12 weeks and peak around 32 weeks. Melasma can potentially be prevented by always wearing sunscreen and a hat while in the sun. If concealer causes other problems for example, if youve got oily or sensitive skin turn to pressed powder to lighten the spots. First and foremost, try to resist the urge to self-diagnose. The good news: Pregnancy mask is usually temporary and fades after delivery or, in some cases, after you finish breastfeeding. Accessed 7/23/2020. You may be referred to a dermatologist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. You may notice your nipples/areolas, armpits, or genitals become darker. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Vitamin D helps keep your skin healthy in general. We'll tell you the best pregnancy-safe sunscreens so you and your, When you're expecting, pregnancy-safe skin care can help ensure the health of you and your baby. In addition to topical treatments and oral medication, Dr. Belkin recommends going that route, with a couple of caveats. (We know, weve felt that knee-jerk instinct at times, too.) When Might Melasma Develop During Pregnancy? Treatments for melasma include topical creams, chemical peels, as well as gentle skin resurfacing procedures. But, it has to be gentle enough and done by an experienced board-certified dermatologist. This is because lasers can also exacerbate melasma, he explains. Trivedi MK, Yang FC, Cho BK. Is it normal to have melasma during pregnancy? Your skin is your barricade. Chemical peels address discoloration by exfoliating the top layers of skin, allowing newer and more evenly toned skin cells to rise to the surface. 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. What are stretch marks? Were explaining why this occurs, below. 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. If someone in your family has had melasma, youre more vulnerable to the condition. Face washes, lotions, and serums that irritate your skin may make melasma worse. You could also take a vitamin D supplement. National Institutes of Health, National Library of Medicine. Barsh G. What Controls Variation in Skin Color? However, it is not likely to go away while youre pregnant or taking hormone contraceptives. In what stage of pregnancy does melasma occur? 15% to 50% of pregnant women get it. Epidermal melasma resides in the surface of the skin. 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. Melasma is sometimes called the mask of pregnancy because it frequently affects pregnant women. Hydroquinone-induced exogenous ochronosis. Plus, you cant change your genetics. Again, there are a variety of factors at play when it comes to darkening pigment. Is it sunlight? Melasma is more common in people with medium to darker skin and seems to run in families. She works full-time as a senior content manager at a multinational digital agency. This educational content is not medical or diagnostic advice. Melasma will not harm your baby. Make a good concealer your best friend. What Bodily Changes Can You Expect During Pregnancy? In addition to her extensive health and wellness writing, Nancy has written about many general interest topics for publications as diverse as Newsweek, Teen Vogue, abcnews.com, and Craftsmanship Quarterly. Policy. There are also other tactics you can try. You may notice your nipples/areolas, armpits, or genitals become darker. Doctors believe they may be caused by weight gain or extra hormones of pregnancy. Even if its hot outside, loose-fitting clothing can be comfortable and protect your skin. Youll be glowing again before you know it! What Helps With Melasma During Pregnancy? . He goes on to explain that the shape of the discolorations matters as well, since melasma coalesces in patches, as opposed to being distinct spotswhich would likely be other kinds of hyperpigmentation, such as sunspots. Commonly affected areas include your face, including the cheeks, upper lip and forehead, as well as the forearms. Melasma sometimes resolves itself one hormonal balance is restored. Melasma is hard to treat. It's common to develop blotchy spots of darker skin when you're pregnant, a condition called melasma or chloasma. Pregnant women have increased levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Match the foundation to your skin tone, but use a concealer thats a shade lighter. Sun exposure plays a role too. Who is at risk of melasma? Melasma is a skin condition characterized by brown or blue-gray patches or freckle-like spots. Check out our article on safe skin care during pregnancy. The darker color usually fades after pregnancy. This frittata is high in protein and rich in essential nutrients your body needs to support a growing baby. Melasma does not cause any itching or pain and has no other physical symptoms. Limit sunbathing and try relaxing under a tree or umbrella instead. They can appear as flat patches or freckle-like spots. There are several topical, procedural, and oral therapies to manage melasma during pregnancy. Not all laser therapies are ideal for treating discoloration. Birth control pills, pregnancy, and hormone therapy can all help trigger melasma. Melasma can even occur in men, although its far more common in women. Sometimes melasma will return and needs further treatment. Therapeutic options. Choose a corrective foundation and concealer that are non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic and designed to cover hyperpigmentation. 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. 2014;89:771-782. doi:10.1590/abd1806-4841.20143063. All rights reserved. You can also try other camouflaging makeup and skincare products, like concealers, full-coverage foundation, and skin-brightening products. 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. She works full-time as a senior content manager at a multinational digital agency. Melasma: causes. Are you interested in procedures that may improve your melasma? Exposure to sunlight can make it more noticeable. 3) Removing the melanin already present in the surface of the skin. (2020). Light-based procedures like intense pulsed light, non-ablative fractionated lasers and low fluence Q-switched lasers. Nancy LeBrun is an Emmy and Peabody award-winning writer and producer who has been writing about health and wellness for more than six years. Is there a specific sunscreen you recommend? However, it can make people self-conscious about their appearance. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. Although this disorder is completely harmless, it understandably makes some people feel self-conscious. This increased workload can cause shortness of breath and fatigue, and it is essential to take breaks and rest when needed.