Melasma: Skin hyperpigmentation that causes dark spots

Melasma is a benign skin condition characterized by localized hyperpigmentation of the skin – especially on the face.

The spots are usually brown, irregular, and symmetrical. In fact, they tend to appear gradually in specific areas of the face: the forehead, cheekbones, nose, and upper lip.

Its color varies throughout the year, but intensifies with exposure to sunlight.

These spots are commonly referred to as "pano" because they are common in pregnant women (10-15%). In these cases, they usually resolve spontaneously, which is not the case with other types of spots, which require appropriate and personalized treatment.

These spots resist over-the-counter creams and are very unsightly, spoiling the beauty of the face.

It is possible to distinguish the different types, depending on the layer of skin affected:

• Epidermal melasma: affects the superficial layer of the skin; in these cases, the stain is usually brown and has well-defined contours.
• Dermal melasma: increased pigmentation in the deepest part of the skin; characterized by spots with a blue/gray coloration.
• Mixed melasma: association between epidermal and dermal types; manifests as spots with brown/gray pigments.

The most appropriate treatment will depend on the depth of the affected skin layer.

You may have tried over-the-counter creams without success. This could mean that the problem is deep within the skin, meaning topical application of creams won't reach the problem.

During the consultation, the specialist doctor makes an assessment in order to prescribe the therapeutic protocol with the greatest chance of success for your particular case.

But before moving on to treatments, find out the cause.