Melasma, often nicknamed the “mask of pregnancy,” is a skin condition that causes dark patches on the face, usually on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip. It’s most common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes but can also affect women on birth control, people undergoing hormone therapy, and even some men.
This condition may develop when estrogen and progesterone trigger the skin’s pigment cells to produce extra color, leading to uneven dark spots.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Melasma During Pregnancy?
Melasma during pregnancy typically shows up as dark, brownish patches on the skin, often with a symmetrical pattern on both sides of the face. The patches are usually flat and blend into the surrounding skin, and they may become more noticeable with sun exposure.
What are the Risk Factors for Developing Melasma During Pregnancy?
Melasma risk during pregnancy is influenced by a few key factors:
- Genetics plays a big role—if melasma runs in your family, you might be more likely to develop it.
- Sun exposure is another major factor, as even minimal sun can trigger melasma, especially if you are not using proper sun protection.
- Age also comes into play—people in their 20s to 40s are more prone to it.
- If you’re expecting multiples, the higher hormone levels might increase your risk.
- Thyroid issues can also be linked to skin pigmentation changes, and if you have thyroid imbalances, melasma could be more common.
- Lastly, skin type matters—darker skin tones naturally have more melanin, making dark-skinned patients more susceptible to developing melasma.
How is Melasma During Pregnancy Diagnosed?
Melasma is typically diagnosed by examining the appearance and pattern of the dark patches on your skin. Your Viva Eve Board-Certified Dermatology PA will carefully assess the areas affected and discuss your medical history, including whether you’re pregnant or receiving hormone treatments.
What are Possible Treatments for Melasma During Pregnancy?
We understand that melasma during pregnancy can affect your confidence and we’re here to help you manage it with safe, effective treatments. As an integrated multi-specialty women’s health practice with a Dermatology PA on staff, we offer personalized care for your skin during and after pregnancy.
First, we’ll focus on protecting your skin from further sun damage with expert advice on sunscreen and gentle skincare routines.
Our other treatments include:
- Topical Creams: Pregnancy-safe topicals, prescribed by your medical provider, can help lighten dark spots and even out your skin tone.
- Chemical Peels: After pregnancy, gentle peels can exfoliate the skin, revealing a fresher, more even complexion.
- Laser Treatments: Once you’re no longer pregnant or breastfeeding, non-invasive lasers can target and break up the melasma pigment while stimulating collagen for smoother skin.
- Secret Pro Treatment: Post-pregnancy, we offer advanced treatment with laser, microneedling, and radio-frequency that rejuvenate skin tone and texture for a more radiant glow.
What Are The Risks If Melasma During Pregnancy Is Left Untreated?
Melasma isn’t harmful to your skin or overall health, but if left untreated, the dark spots can become more noticeable and persistent, especially with continued sun exposure. These patches may also thicken, making them more difficult to treat. The good news is that addressing melasma early with the right skincare and treatments can prevent it from worsening and help restore your skin’s natural, even tone.
Are There Other Skin Conditions that Are Common During Pregnancy, Besides Melasma?
Yes, there are other skin conditions related to pregnancy:
- Linea Nigra: A dark line on the abdomen, common during pregnancy.
- Pregnancy Acne: Breakouts that are caused by hormonal changes.
- Chloasma: A broader term for pigment changes in the skin, often used interchangeably with melasma, but can affect areas other than the face and occurs outside of pregnancy too.
- PUPPP: An itchy rash that can appear in the third trimester.
Key Takeaways About Pregnancy and Melasma
Melasma causes dark patches on the face due to hormonal changes. This condition is common in our pregnant patients but can also affect anyone with hormonal fluctuations, including those on birth control or hormone therapy.
Early treatment can help prevent it from worsening and restore your skin’s natural glow.
Recommended Next Steps
- Schedule a Consultation: Click Book Now on this page to schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our dermatology providers who can evaluate your skin and provide a proper diagnosis.
- Protect Your Skin: In the meantime, use a high SPF (50 and above) sunscreen daily to prevent sun exposure from worsening your melasma.
- Consider Treatment Options: Depending on your stage of pregnancy, we can discuss safe treatment options like gentle skincare routines, or post-pregnancy options like laser treatment, topical creams, and a chemical peel regimen.
- Follow-Up: Continue monitoring your skin and stay in touch with our team for any changes. Early care is key to managing melasma effectively!
As women’s health specialists, we’re uniquely qualified to address the hormonal changes that impact your skin, offering treatments that are both effective and safe. We’re here to help restore your skin’s natural radiance with treatment options designed specifically for you.