Melasma

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Melasma

Melasma (pronunciation: /mɛˈlæzmə/) is a common skin condition where brown or gray-brown patches appear, usually on the face. The term originates from the Greek word 'melas', meaning black.

Causes

Melasma is thought to be the stimulation of melanocytes (cells in the skin that produce melanin) by the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone to produce more melanin pigments when the skin is exposed to sun. People with a genetic predisposition or certain ethnic backgrounds are more likely to get melasma.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of melasma is the appearance of brown or gray-brown patches on the face. These patches often develop gradually over time. Melasma commonly appears 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 get lots of sun, like the forearms and neck.

Treatment

Treatment for melasma includes avoiding the sun and using sunscreen every day. Over-the-counter and prescription creams can help lighten the melasma. Procedures like a chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or laser treatment may be used to remove the dark pigment.

Related Terms

  • Hyperpigmentation: A common, usually harmless condition in which patches of skin become darker in color than the normal surrounding skin.
  • Melanin: The pigment that gives human skin, hair, and eyes their color.
  • Melanocytes: Cells in the skin that produce melanin.
  • Estrogen: One of the main female sex hormones.
  • Progesterone: A hormone that plays a significant role in the menstrual cycle and in maintaining the early stages of pregnancy.

External links

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