Hyperpigmentation and Melasma

What is hyperpigmentation?

When exposed to sunlight, specialized skin cells called melanocytes produce an increased amount of the pigment melanin. Melanin is responsible for the various colors of skin, hair, and eyes. Hyperpigmentation, the darkening or changing of color of the skin, is the result of increased melanin production. It can be brought on by inflammation-causing disorders, certain medications and exposure to sunlight.

What is melasma?

Melasma is a common and very frustrating skin problem. Most often, melasma appears as brown to gray-brown patches on the cheeks, bridge of the nose, forehead, chin, and above the upper lip. It can also appear on other parts of the body that are frequently exposed to sunlight, such as the forearms and neck.

The cause of melasma is unknown. Melasma may be hormonally triggered, and is far more likely to appear in women than in men. It common appears during pregnancy and is sometimes referred to as the mask of pregnancy.

How can I treat hyperpigmentation and/or melasma?

Vigilant sun protection is the most important treatment if you have hyperpigmentation or melasma. We recommend you wear sunscreen every day and reapply it every two hours. You should seek shade and wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when you’re outdoors.

Over time, with sun avoidance, hyperpigmentation and melasma can fade. However, more often than not, these problems require additional treatments and ongoing maintenance.

Treatments for hyperpigmentation and melasma include: