Melasma is a skin disorder that causes freckle-like spots and flat patches, usually on the nose, cheeks, chin, nose bridge, forehead, and breast bone. These spots and patches can be brown, tan, or blue-grey. This condition is most common among pregnant women, as 15-50% of them are melasma sufferers. For this reason, Melasma is also known as the Mask of Pregnancy.
Table of Contents
Why do People Get Melasma?
The two leading causes of Melasma are:
- Hormonal changes
- Radiation, which can be in the form of visible light, ultraviolet, or infrared
Common factors that lead to Melasma include:
- Prolonged exposure to the sun
- Pregnancy
- Genetics
- Taking birth control pills
- Thyroid disorders
Diagnosis of Melasma
Melasma is generally diagnosed through a skin examination. A dermatologist will use a Wood’s lamp to check for any changes in your skin color. Additionally, they may examine your thyroid since there is a link between thyroid disease and Melasma.
Melasma can also be diagnosed through a skin biopsy test. During this test, a dermatologist will remove a skin sample for a lab examination. It is a safe procedure generally performed in an outpatient setting.
To determine the severity of your Melasma, your dermatologist may use a particular measure called Melasma Area and Severity Index (MASI).
Melasma Treatment
The following are some of the most trustworthy options to treat Melasma.
Topical Creams
Topical creams are usually the primary option to fade excess pigmentation caused by Melasma. The most common topical treatment for Melasma is hydroquinone. Other options include:
- Tretinoin with a mild corticosteroid
- Retinoids
- Kojic acid
- Azelaic acid
- Glycolic acid
- Arbutin
- Mequinol
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are an effective and safe method to reduce patchy skin discoloration caused by Melasma. During this treatment, a dermatologist applies a peeling solution to the skin area affected by Melasma. The chemicals in this solution exfoliate the top skin layer, reducing the discolored spots.
Generally, ethanol solutions of salicylic acid are considered excellent peeling agents for treating Melasma.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion involves spraying tiny crystals onto the skin and is considered an effective treatment to reduce dark pigments. This treatment is usually combined with a topical or oral treatment to reduce dark spots caused by Melasma.
Laser Treatment
Lasers can help treat Melasma which doesn’t respond to other treatments.
At Euromed Clinic Dubai, we use Medica PICO Laser for melasma treatment. This device generates a laser beam that turns into pressure instead of heat. The energy produced by this laser works below the skin and treats Melasma at its source. The entire procedure is quick, easy, and causes only minor discomfort.
Intense Pulse Light Therapy
IPL is a pain-free treatment during which an expert uses broad-spectrum light in particular wavelengths. This light breaks down the accumulated melanin substances into smaller ones. The body would then evacuate these bits effortlessly.
How can I permanently cure Melasma?
There is no permanent cure for Melasma. Most treatments in this regard help reduce dark patches and spots caused by Melasma.
What deficiency causes Melasma?
Melasma is generally associated with Vitamin B12 deficiency, also called pernicious anemia.
What Causes Pregnancy Melasma?
Pregnancy melasma is thought to be caused by higher estrogen and progesterone levels. As a result, some pregnant women may develop dark spots on their skin. These spots fade away when the pregnancy is over.
Can you treat Melasma during pregnancy?
Melasma can be treated during pregnancy. But since pregnancy melasma occurs only during pregnancy when hormonal fluctuations are high, it tends to fade away after you give birth. Therefore, dermatologists usually recommend treatment if dark patches continue to bother you after pregnancy.
Melasma Treatment Results
Schedule an Appointment
To learn more about Melasma Treatments, you can schedule a meeting by calling us at +971 4 394 5422 or filling out the form below.

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