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Melasma on the face is caused by health issues
Brown or light brown patches on the hands, neck, shoulders, and face are indicative of melasma. Although it appears as brown patches on the skin that most people confuse for sunburns, there could be a number of underlying medical conditions that lead to it. Here are a few of them:
Warmth
In addition to UV rays, heat can make melasma worse. Extended periods of exposure to high temperatures, such as those experienced during hot weather or activities that induce perspiration, can exacerbate pre-existing melasma or cause it to develop.
Sunlight Intake
Skinlogics cosmetologist Ritu Khariyan states that “the sun is a major trigger for melasma.” Sunlight’s ultraviolet (UV) rays activate melanocytes, increasing the amount of melanin they generate. This explains why melasma frequently gets worse in the summer or in sunny areas. UVB rays are not the only harmful radiation; visible light and UVA rays can also cause melasma. Because of this, using sunscreen protection is essential for managing melasma.”
Factors Related to Hormones
The formation of melasma is significantly influenced by hormonal changes. Because it frequently affects pregnant women, this is why it is sometimes referred to as the “mask of pregnancy”. The characteristic brown patches are caused by an increase in melanin production by melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin pigmentation, as a result of fluctuations in hormones such as progesterone and estrogen. Melasma may also result from hormonal treatments like hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills.
Observable Light
According to studies, blue light from electronics may be one type of visible light that contributes to melasma. Though more research is required in this developing field, it’s crucial to understand how visible light may affect skin pigmentation diseases like melasma.
Biological Propensity
There is evidence to imply that melasma may potentially be influenced by heredity. The likelihood of developing melasma in oneself is higher in those with a family history of the ailment.
Melasma treatment at home
1. Toner with Apple Cider Vinegar
Natural acids found in apple cider vinegar (ACV) can aid in skin exfoliation and black spot whitening. To make a toner, dilute equal quantities ACV and water. Using a cotton pad, apply the toner to the problematic regions and let it sit there for a few minutes. After using water to rinse, moisturize. Apply this toner once a day, ideally in the evening, and then use sunscreen during the day to protect your skin.
2. Sunscreen Use
Sun protection is one of the most important parts of managing melasma. Even on overcast days, always use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Every two hours, especially if you’re outside or swimming, reapply sunscreen. To protect your skin from damaging UV radiation, put on protective clothes, sunglasses, and wide-brimmed hats.
3. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is good for treating melasma because of its calming and skin-lightening qualities. Apply fresh aloe vera gel that has been extracted from the leaf to the afflicted areas. After 20 to 30 minutes, leave it on and rinse with water. Try this cure twice a day to see a notable improvement.