Melasma is a common skin condition that causes brown to grayish-brown patches on the face. Though it can occur in both men and women, it is much more common in women, especially those with darker skin. Melasma often develops during pregnancy or when taking certain hormones, such as birth control pills. It usually fades after pregnancy or when you stop taking the hormones.
There is no cure for melasma, but there are treatments that can help lighten the dark patches. If you have melasma, you may want to avoid the sun and use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day. You can also try over-the-counter bleaching creams or prescription creams, pills, or gels.
Refractory melasma is a type of melasma that does not respond well to traditional treatments. If you have refractory melasma, you may need to try a different approach, such as intense pulsed light therapy, laser therapy, or a chemical peel.
If you have melasma, it is important to see a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. With the right treatment, you can help reduce the appearance of dark patches and achieve more even-toned skin.
What is the prognosis for refractory melasma?
The prognosis for refractory melasma is not currently known. There is no cure for melasma and it is a chronic condition that can worsen with time. Treatment options are limited and often ineffective. Some people may experience lightening of their skin after several years, but this is not guaranteed. There is no way to prevent melasma and it can occur in anyone, regardless of age, race, or gender.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is melasma and how is it treated?
Melasma is a skin condition that causes patches or spots of brown or blue-gray skin. It can be difficult to treat because it’s often in areas where you don’t want tanning, like the face. But there are treatments that may help lessen the appearance of melasma. Some options include: topical creams andlotions that contain sunscreens andreduced tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-a) medications, which help reduce inflammation and promote melanocyte production; laser therapy, which kills the cells that cause Melasma; telabotulinumtoxinA (trade name Botox), which blocks nerve signals that lead to the production of melanin ; cryotherapy (freezing), which can shrink brown patches temporarily; and surgery, either by using a chemical peel to remove the top layer of skin or using freezing spheres to destroy brown patches completely.
What causes melasma to appear?
There is no single definitive answer to this question. However, research suggests that pigmentation may be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some possible causes of melasma include: -Hormonal changes during pregnancy or testosterone replacement therapy -Sun exposure, especially during puberty -Use of certain types of cosmetics, including Retinoids (brand names include Renova, Tazorac and Aderma) - botched facelifts or other procedures that remove too much skin
What does melasma look like?
Melasma typically appears as symmetrical brown patches on the face, though it can also develop on other areas of the body that are regularly exposed to the sun. The patches may take any color from light brown to deep black, and may be large or small.
Does melasma go away on its own?
Some people may experience gradual improvement in melasma over time, without any treatment. Hormonal changes that are responsible for the formation of melasma may also fluctuate and eventually correct themselves.
What are the best melasma treatments?
There is no one perfect melasma treatment, but some of the most common include using hydroquinone, using a sun blocker such as titanium dioxide or azelaic acid, and using a light therapy device. It is important to speak with your doctor about which treatments are best for you.
Sources
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