Melasma: FAQ

Is melasma dangerous?

No. Melasma is not known to cause any harm other than to change the way the skin appears in certain areas. However, it can be a distressing skin condition for many due to its high visibility. If it causes you psychological stress, it is a good idea to seek treatment. While melasma is not considered to be dangerous from a medical standpoint, conditions like depression are.

Is melasma contagious?

No, melasma is not contagious. It is not a condition that is caused by fungus, bacteria, or viruses, and there is no fear of catching it from others or passing it on to others. Melasma is caused by over-stimulated melanocytes which causes the excess color in the skin.

Is there a cure for melasma?

Melasma is usually a self-limiting condition. The discoloration of the skin generally disappears over time even without treatment. As the condition is hormone related, the symptoms often fade away quickly after giving birth, or stopping hormone therapy, or stopping the use of oral contraceptives. Several treatments can speed up the process of recovery, or help hide the pigmentation when symptoms are noticeable.

Is melasma a genetic condition?

There seems to be some genetic correlation in those who develop melasma. If you have close family and relatives who have had this condition, you may be more likely to develop melasma. Sun exposure, however, is a major environmental factor that can be controlled. We recommend regular use of sunscreens as both a prevention and treatment for melasma.

What can I do to prevent melasma?

Sun exposure is a major risk factor for this condition. Limiting sun exposure can help to reduce the chances of developing this condition. The other factors are genetic ones and hormonal ones, and are often impossible or unreasonable to control. Prevention can be difficult, but melasma tends to be self-limiting, and there are many treatments available that can speed up recovery.

Who gets melasma?

Anyone can get melasma. It is more common, however, in women (90% of melasma patients) and in those with darker skin. Melasma is also closely associated with sun exposure.

How quickly can I get rid of melasma?

This depends on many factors, and the exact time frame can be difficult to predict. Some have the condition for life, while in others it can fade very within weeks. A cause is usually identified (common causes include the use of birth control pills, and excess sun exposure) and the patient will make a decision about whether they wish to adjust their lifestyle, or seek treatments to minimize the symptoms. Cosmetic covers can help to hide away pigmentation problems very effectively, and can be very useful.

Will my melasma disappear after I deliver my baby?

While there is no guarantee that this is the case, it is very likely that melasma will fade. While people react differently, hormonal changes are often responsible for triggering this condition and patients often recovery quickly from melasma after pregnancy. Melasma may recur again if you become pregnant again. In all cases, sun protection is strongly recommended.

Why is sun protection so important in melasma treatment?

Melasma is very sensitive to sun exposure, as UV light activates melanocytes naturally. Additionally, many active ingredients which treat melasma also make the skin become more sensitive to the sun. Thus, exposure to UV light can quickly reverse progress that is made in melasma treatment, so a lifestyle that minimizes sun exposure is necessary for treatment to be successful.