Living With Melasma

Just like no definite cause behind melasma has been revealed so far, but only a bunch of risk factors, the skin pigmentation disorder is also notoriously hard to treat. Though pregnancy-induced melasma does often disappear on its own after pregnancy, it doesn't always, and other forms of melasma have little chance of going away by themselves. 

Thankfully, though, if you are affected by melasma, there are indeed steps you can undertake to minimize your hyperpigmentation. You can take some of these measures yourself, while you need the partnership of a dermatologist for others. Let's take a look at the options. 

Avoiding Triggers

Those who started developing melasma after taking hormonal contraceptives should look into non-hormonal birth control methods such as the copper intrauterine device or condoms instead. In some cases, this alone causes the pigmentation to fade a great deal. Sun exposure isn't just a melasma trigger, the tanning that is associated with spending time in the sun will only cause your melasma to stand out more. Therefore, using a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, and that has a sun protection factor of 50 or higher, is a must for people with melasma. You should also try to avoid spending time outdoors during the hottest hours of the day, and you can wear wide-rimmed hats when you do go out. 

Note: If you avoid spending time in the sun, ask your doctor about taking a vitamin D supplement. 

Professional Treatments

Medical spas, operated by doctors, do have several treatment options aimed at improving the pigmentation of people with melasma. Chemical peels including TCA peels, laser resurfacing treatments, and microdermabrasion have all helped individual people with melasma manage their condition. The results can be quite incredible. Individual plastic surgeons and dermatologists usually have their own "pet" treatment options which they prefer. By meeting with several board-certified dermatologists, you can get a very good idea of what is offered within your area. However, browsing the internet is a great start, if you would like to find out what services are offered near you. Be aware, however, that these treatments will certainly cost you several hundred US dollars, and can easily end up eating into your budget to the tune of several thousand as well. 

Skin Lightening Creams

In the US, it is not at all uncommon for doctors to recommend skin lightening creams that contain melanin-reducing ingredients, such as  Hydroquinone and Azeleic acid. Though these products can indeed be effective at reducing your hyperpigmentation, you also need to know that Hydroquinone is banned within the European Union because it can lead to severe irritation. Kojic acid, which is present in Kojie San soap, is a more natural alternative that many people have found to be effective for reducing hyperpigmentation. 

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Can You Conceal Melasma?

Your everyday, garden-variety foundation isn't going to be any good at covering your melasma up — not even the full-coverage versions of high-end, expensive brands. Professional makeup aimed at camouflaging, however, can indeed offer you an even skin tone. Try ColorTration and DermaBlend, use a primer before you start, and dab your foundation on, rather than massaging it in. Use small amounts in layers, until you achieve good coverage. Then use a makeup setter to ensure that your makeup stays in place. 

If you're not that handy with makeup, it may be worth investing in some sessions with a professional makeup artist who has experience with concealing skin conditions, scars and burns, and tattoos.