MELASMA

Overview Of Melasma

Melasma is a chronic disorder of skin. It is also called as chloasma. It causes brownish, symmetrical, blotchy discoloration of skin most commonly on face. It can also affect arms or back. Common site of melasma are Cheeks, nose, chin & forehead. It does not cause any harm, but you may feel self-conscious about the way it looks.

Causes & Risk Factors of Melasma

It is more common in women & dark skin individuals between 20-40 years of age.
Hormonal therapy- oral contraceptives containing estrogen & progesterone, hormone replacement therapies can cause melasma.
Pregnancy & Menopause- Melasma can trigger during pregnancy & menopause.
Sun exposure – Ultraviolet rays contribute to skin damage & it is the most important risk factor for melasma.
Thyroid disorder- Thyroid problem can also cause melasma.
Cosmetic products- Especially those contain perfume can cause phototoxic reaction can bring on melasma.
Melasma can run in families. It can also be caused by stress.

Symptoms :

Brownish patches appear on skin especially cheeks, chin, nose, or forehead. It can also occur on the back or arms.
Patches usually appear in symmetrical manner.
Melasma worsen in summer & fades in winter.

Treatment & Management

Chemical peeling- It removes the superficial skin & their low PH inhibits the activity of tyrosinase (Tyrosinase is a copper containing enzyme present in the tissues that catalyzes the production of melanin & other pigments.)
Using sunscreen every day year-round with SPF 30.
Topical applications- creams containing kojic acid, ascorbic acid, azelaic acid, retenoids are effective for short term.
In severe cases laser treatment can be used to remove dark pigment.

Homeopathic Treatment For Melasma

Here at Peachtree Clinic homeopathic medicines are selected after detail history taking & analysis. Homeopathic treatment is effective for all pigmentation disorders. It helps lightening the dark patches & halting the further progression of condition & in many cases patches fades completely. There are many effective medicines available in homeopathy but selection of medicine depends upon individuality of the patient. List of few medicines used in melasma are- Sepia, Lycopodium, Cadmium sulph, Thuja