Blotchy patches on your skin may be an indication that you are suffering from melasma. These unsightly discolorations can be embarrassing and affect your life quality. For melasma in Glen Allen, contact Patricia O’Conner, MD, and the dermatology experts of Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center to diagnose and treat this stubborn skin condition properly.
What is Melasma?
Melasma is a medical condition that leaves dark and colored patches on your skin. It commonly appears in your mouth and eye areas. Although it has no physical implications, it can affect your appearance, decreasing your self-confidence. Melasma commonly appears in pregnant women hence the codename “mask of pregnancy” or chloasma.
Causes of Melasma
Melasma does not have a single, consistent cause. However, certain risk factors make you more vulnerable. Such risks include:
- Darker skin tone
- Sun exposure
- States that lead to increased hormones including pregnancy and oral contraceptive pills
Women are more likely to suffer this condition compared to men. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, ninety percent of individuals who develop melasma are women.
How May I Know Whether I am Suffering from Melasma?
If you have melasma, the patches of discoloration appear darker than your normal skin color. These patches are most common in your face in areas such as:
- Forehead
- Cheeks
- Chin
- Bridge of your nose
Commonly, these patches appear symmetrical, with corresponding marks appearing on both sides of your face. Melasma also develops on your forearms and neck, and other body parts exposed to direct sun.
Diagnosing Melasma
Your dermatology specialist at Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center can diagnose your condition with a simple visual exam. They may also conduct related tests to disqualify other causes of your hyperpigmentation.
A Wood’s lamp examination entails shining a specific light on your skin. This light lets your doctor detect whether you have any fungal or bacterial infections that may be causing your discoloration. Moreover, this test allows your provider to know how many layers of your skin are affected by melasma. Additionally, your doctor may administer a biopsy on your discolored skin to ensure there are no severe impending conditions.
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Can I Get Treatment for Melasma?
In some instances, melasma disappears by itself, especially if it is due to a hormonal cause like pregnancy or birth control. However, if your condition is unyielding, your dermatologist may recommend a combination of popular treatments, including:
- Chemical peels
- Creams to lighten your skin
- Dermabrasion and microdermabrasion
- Topical steroids
These treatments are more effective if your daily skincare routine incorporates a broad-spectrum SPF30+ sunscreen daily.
Other services
Your specialist at Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center offers various other treatments in addition to melasma. Contact the practice to receive high-class treatments such as:
- Injectables
- Skin Disorders
- Psoriasis
- Acne
- Eczema
- Warts
- Skin cancer treatment
- Actinic keratosis
- Skin tags
- Melanoma
- Rosacea
- Mole removal
- Basal cell carcinoma
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Scar treatment
- Itching
- Keloids
- Hyperpigmentation
Melasma is likely to fade by itself if it is hormonal. Nonetheless, if your condition is relentless, you can find expert diagnosis and treatment at Absolute Dermatology & Skin Cancer Center. Schedule your consultation by phone or book online.