2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Head out early in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is low. BabyCenter's editorial team is committed to providing the most helpful and trustworthy pregnancy and parenting information in the world. Skin hyperpigmentation during pregnancy is very common. They usually fade in the first few months after . Your skin is made up of three layers. Malar pattern . General Health. In pregnancy, it's often referred to as chloasma, or the "mask of pregnancy.". You can live melasma-free with the right combination of treatments. Not all laser therapies are ideal for treating discoloration. As a result, the blood volume in the body increases by up to 50%, and the heart rate may rise by 10 to 15 beats per minute. In fact, melasma can affect any part of your skin that is exposed to sunlight. Melanin is what gives skin its color. It usually starts between 20 and 40 years of age. We'll tell you what to avoid and some good, Skin tags are common during pregnancy and can be painful. This means that its long-lasting (three months or more). During pregnancy, melasma usually appears on the face as patchy or spotted areas of skin that are tan, brown, or sometimes blue-gray. Melasma is hard to treat. Thats why most people with melasma notice that their symptoms worsen during the summer months. Read on to learn about what causes melasma during pregnancy and how to treat it. There are some procedures that your dermatologist can do to improve your melasma. Pregnant women have increased levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Hair changes with pregnancy. Her favorite pastimes include experimenting with new foods, libations, and restaurants, as well as traveling the world with her two college-age children, husband, extended family, and friends. Very common lumps found among women during pregnancy are clogged milk ducts. Is there a specific sunscreen you recommend? Melasma can present with blotches or frecklesusually on the facethat are darker than the rest of your skin tone. If you opt for a spa treatment during pregnancy, be sure to let your esthetician know that youre pregnant. Products that irritate the skin can make melasma worse. If you take preventative measures and follow any treatments recommended by your healthcare provider, your melasma might disappear. Melasma that arises during pregnancy may go away on its own, but it wont happen overnight. PLoS Biol. Mix a solution of a half of fresh lemon juice and half of cucumber juice or water to lighten top . If youre susceptible to pregnancy melasma, unprotected sun exposure can worsen it. Applying this powerful antioxidant to your skin can help brighten melasma while providing other anti-aging benefits, like increased collegen production. Youre also more likely to develop melasma during pregnancy if someone in your family has had it, if you have naturally dark skin, or if you spend a lot of time in the sun. Report all side effects to your healthcare provider. Melasma is usually flat. Melasma appears slowly, and the spots are usually larger than those from sun damage or age. The association between melasma and iron profile: A case-control study. During pregnancy or while youre breastfeeding, you should also avoid at-home peels, bleaches or other chemical-based lightening treatments, since they can all potentially penetrate the skin. Speak with your doctor about ways to treat your melasma during pregnancy. Heat can trigger melasma by causing the blood vessels in the skin to dilate and send signals to create pigmentation. Melasma can develop at any time during your pregnancy, however. Melasma during pregnancy is a skin condition in which melanocytes, the skin cells that produce melanin, produce more pigment than usual. Melanin is the natural substance that gives color to hair, skin, and eyes. 6.6 Naturium vitamin C Complex Face Serum. Dendritic (branched) pigmented melanocytes. Melasma is not dangerous or cancerous, but it may affect how you feel about your appearance. This discoloration is usually symmetrical and is most common on the cheeks and nose, but its also found on the forehead and upper lip. Handel AC, Miot LDB, Miot HA. Start at 2,000 International Units (IU) per day. Melanin in the dermis within melanophages. Your melasma is likely to go away when youre no longer pregnant. It can be frustrating to deal with changes to your skin during pregnancy. Policy. NIH. We believe you should always know the source of the information you're reading. Are you interested in prescriptions that may improve your melasma? Sunscreen: How to Help Protect Your Skin from the Sun. 2 Dermal melasma is light brown or bluish, with blurred borders. U.S. National Library of Medicine. 2020;1(2):65-67. doi:10.5606/jebms.2020.75614. 2021. Is there a history of melasma in your family? There are two main causes of melasma: radiation, whether ultraviolet, visible light, or infrared (heat) light; and hormones. You might have your thyroid checked because there does seem to be an association between thyroid disease and melasma. Can Fam Physician. Melasma is sometimes called the mask of pregnancy because it frequently affects pregnant women. Thankfully, the only thing it interferes with is your skins appearance, and its not the kind of skin condition that causes cancer or can turn into cancer. Pregnancy melasma, also known as a " pregnancy mask," is an extremely common condition that causes skin hyperpigmentation (i.e. Melasma is especially common in darker-skinned women or those of Asian and African descent, who have more pigment in their skin than fair-skinned people. Vitamin C is used in skin care as a strong antioxidant, especially in regard to protecting the skin from sun damage. These steps may prevent your melasma from getting worse. What to Expect follows strict reporting guidelines and uses only credible sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions and highly respected health organizations. Kalayc M. Pregnancy Mask: Melasma. The three types are: Melasma is not cancerous, a sign of cancer, or a skin condition that turns into cancer. Commonly occurring during pregnancy, melasma is sometimes referred to as chloasma, or the mask of pregnancy because dark patches on the face can resemble a mask. 2) Stopping the transfer of that pigment to the surface of the skin where it appears as dark spots. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. Careful sun protection is key. You can help make your sun protection efforts even more effective if you wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, a hat, and sunglasses, and limit your time in the sun, especially between its peak hours between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. This common condition occurs in 50-70% of pregnant women. The mask of pregnancy technically called melasma appears when a steep rise in estrogen and progesterone levels stimulates excess melanin production, also known as hyperpigmentation. Her go-to ingredients include vitamin C, kojic acid, and licorice root extract, as well as hydroquinone and glycolic acid. A few alternative remedies, like turmeric and aloe vera, have shown at least some success at improving melasma. ), (https://dermnetnz.org/topics/drug-induced-photosensitivity/), (https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/melasma-overview), (https://health.gov/our-work/food-nutrition/2015-2020-dietary-guidelines/guidelines/appendix-12/), (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279255/#:~:text=What%20does%20skin%20do%3F,as%20germs%20and%20toxic%20substances. Originally coined in Latin, it loosely translates into black spot. While melasma doesnt actually cause black spots to appear on the skin, it does create brown or blue-gray discolorations that are grouped together to form larger patches. Will I still have melasma after my pregnancy? Accessed 7/23/2020. When creating and updating content, we rely on credible sources: respected health organizations, professional groups of doctors and other experts, and published studies in peer-reviewed journals. Can i use 2% hydro quinine during pregnancy for melasma. Remember that it's likely to go away after giving birth. That said, there are skin cancers that look similar to melasma, so its important to see your dermatologist to get a definitive diagnosis. A dermatologist specializes in skin conditions. Those with a combination of ingredients that help using different pathways to diminish pigment.. There are dermatologists who can help you. What's more, skin that's already more pigmented such as your nipples, freckles, scars, and the skin of your genitals may become even darker during pregnancy. A Woods lamp that emits black light may be used to determine the depth of the pigment. Skin color needs to be factored in when discussing skin diseases, aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/melasma-overview, acog.org/womens-health/faqs/skin-conditions-during-pregnancy. Since the sun may trigger the development of more pigment, its a good idea to stay out of its rays, especially for long periods of time. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2020. They are generally tan or brownish in color, but can look blue-gray on people with naturally darker skin color. 5 Tips to Prevent Constipation During Pregnancy, How to Cope With Anxiety During Pregnancy, A Complete Guide to Pregnancy-Safe Skincare, Breastfeeding Safe SkincareWhat to Use and Avoid When Nursing Your Baby, The 11 Best Pregnancy-Safe Skincare Products Dermatologists Love. First and foremost, try to resist the urge to self-diagnose. our editorial and medical review policies, dark line down the center of your abdomen (the linea nigra), Skin Darkening and Discoloration During Pregnancy. Can I Use Vitamin C in Skincare While Pregnant? Too much screen time? Stretch marks are easier to prevent than erase. Sometimes the patches can become red or inflamed. Learn how we keep our content accurate and up-to-date by reading ourmedical review and editorial policy. Melasma during pregnancy is very common. If the spots don't fade within a few months after having the baby, there are treatments to help fade them. Only a dermatologist will be able to tell you for sure if you have pregnancy melasma. Always be on the lookout for any allergic reactions. While there are no specific studies on these methods for chloasma, the following topical treatments may help: Since melasma may also be the result of hormonal imbalances, you may improve matters by giving yourself some much-needed TLC. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. The good news is that this hyperpigmentation likely wont get worse after you deliver your child. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. But you may be able to avoid the factors listed above which make melasma worse. Laser is a great option, he shares. Cat is a linguistic alchemist and expert wordsmith who has written and edited for some of the world's biggest brands. At this time no foods or drinks are known by experts to directly cause, magically cure or worsen melasma. However, there are skin cancers that may mimic melasma, so seeing your dermatologist is often recommended to confirm the correct diagnosis. Does pregnancy melanoma go away on its own? Other people may have melasma for just a short time, such as during pregnancy. It doesn't affect your baby in any way or indicate any other pregnancy complications. Melasma: Management https://www.uptodate.com/contents/melasma-management [Accessed September 2020]. Make sure youre staying hydrated, eating a diet with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, and getting enough sleep each night. If you feel that its negatively impacting your life, or you have any other concerns, try not to suffer in silence. 6 Treatment of Melasma during pregnancy. Look for products that contain zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or other physical blockers (mineral sunscreens) versus those that rely on chemical blockers. Call your provider if you have changes in skin pigmentation as well as pain, tenderness, redness, or bleeding, or if you notice any changes in the color, shape, or size of a mole. Are darkened spots on skin during pregnancy ever a sign of illness? Nearly 50 to 70% of pregnant women show signs of a " mask of pregnancy". How much youre out in the sun or even the time of year when youre pregnant may also affect when you first notice it. Melasma may start at any point in your pregnancy, though it most commonly begins in the second or third trimester. These discolorations are flat, clustered, asymmetrical splotches. Melasma is a skin condition that causes grayish-brown patches to appear, mostly on the face. Although its a benign condition that doesnt cause any pain or discomfort, its appearance can negatively impact your confidence and self-esteem. You can also try other camouflaging makeup and skincare products, like concealers, full-coverage foundation, and skin-brightening products. Melasma. Trivedi MK, Yang FC, Cho BK. Treatments for melasma include topical creams, chemical peels, as well as gentle skin resurfacing procedures. Pain, itchiness, or soreness are not symptoms of melasma. The mechanism that causes Melasma is not well understood, but there is a strong correlation between hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause, ovarian cysts, etc. Melasma can even occur in men, although its far more common in women. Your healthcare provider might test your vitamin D levels to make sure that youre getting enough of it from high vitamin D foods such as meat, cereals, oily fish and eggs. Why Does Pregnancy Make My Lips and Skin So Dry? Use of this site is subject to our terms of use and privacy policy. Hydroquinone-induced exogenous ochronosis. UV light exposure only makes hyperpigmentation worse by further darkening skin. Group Black's collective includes Essence, The Shade Room and Naturally Curly. Adding a skin condition like melasma to the mix can be frustrating, especially if it's making you self-conscious about your appearance. Doctors believe they may be caused by weight gain or extra hormones of pregnancy. Melasma: a clinical and epidemiological review. No. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. Although most skin-lightening ingredients are off-limits during pregnancy, talk to your doctor about whether you can apply topical azelaic acid to your skin for melasma. Treatment once you have finished breast- feeding can take the normal course, which normally begins with topical bleaching . Its impossible to prevent melasma with certainty, but there are ways to reduce your risk or minimize the appearance of your melasma. Despite the fact that pregnancy melasma isnt a dangerous condition, it can do a number on your self-esteem and confidence. This is because radiation from ultraviolet rays acts as a catalyst for melanin production. If your hyperpigmentation is accompanied by consistent itching, irritation or discomfort, its important to note that these are not symptoms of melasma. All changes in skin pigmentation due to melasma usually disappear on their own after delivery, but you can do a few things to safely minimize darkened spots on your skin during pregnancy: Melasma usually fades without treatment after you have your baby. The good news: Pregnancy mask is usually temporary and fades after delivery or, in some cases, after you finish breastfeeding. Skin conditions during pregnancy. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. During pregnancy, the body goes through significant hormonal changes. An increase in estrogen levels can worsen melasma. How can I prevent melasma from getting worse during pregnancy? Youll be glowing again before you know it! Melasma is only a pigmentary concern, and does not affect the health of the mother or baby. Vitamin D helps keep your skin healthy in general. "Hydroquinone does not get absorbed systemically". Learn more aboutour editorial and medical review policies. These hormones are thought to contribute to your melasma. In any case, continue to protect your skin from the sun by using sunscreen every day, wearing protective clothing, and staying out of the sun during peak hours. Melasma is a skin disorder where the melanocytes (color-producing cells) in your skin produce extra pigment for some reason. Melanin in the basal and suprabasal keratinocytes. Melasma may be triggered by hormonal changes during pregnancy, which stimulate a temporary increase in the amount of melanin your body produces. Another exfoliation option would be to have a laser skin resurfacing treatment. Look for products that say fragrance-free, for sensitive skin, or non-comedogenic on the label. A dermatologist will be able to perform treatments that your usual healthcare provider may not be able to. Many compacts come in a wide range of colors for all skin tones. It is not visible under blacklight and is much more challenging to treat. The following are common melasma triggers: In addition to the above, genetics play a crucial role. That said, prescribing instructions note that it should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. Between 1.5% and 33% of the population may get melasma and it happens more often during a woman's reproductive years, and rarely happens during puberty. It is typically hormonally-triggered, much more common in women, and often arising or worsening in pregnancy or with birth control pills. The surge in hormones you experience when youre pregnant makes your skin more susceptible to sunlight and other pregnancy melasma triggers. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Melasma is harmless, physically, but can have an emotional impact. In rare circumstances, specifically, when its harder to make a clear diagnosis, a small biopsy may be performed to be sure the discoloration isnt indicative of another skin condition, like melanoma, the scientific word for skin cancer. Wearing a good pregnancy-safe sunscreen with SPF 30+ is key. If youve noticed new, dark skin splotches on your face, youve probably got melasma which is often called the mask of pregnancy. But youre not alone this condition affects an estimated 50 to 75 percent of expectant mothers. People taking hormonal birth control - say you start taking the Pill again after you give birth - can also get melasma. It also helps regulate your body temperature, prevent hydration and feel sensations like the warmth of the stove, the fur on your dogs belly and the pressure of someone elses hand holding yours. The spots develop when the hormones trigger cells called melanocytes, which go into overdrive and produce more of a substance called melanin. Who is at risk of melasma? Some studies link melasma to deficiency in iron and possibly vitamin B12. Melasma can be managed, but often not entirely cured, in the sense that in someone who is predisposed, it can always come back. What skin solutions are off-limits during pregnancy? They can appear anywhere on the body but are most common on the stomach, hips, breasts, and thighs. Ask your healthcare provider if youre concerned about another condition. Signs of melasma during pregnancy Melasma occurs most often on the face as brown or grayish-brown patches that sometimes look blotchy. There are some milder products that may fade the spots safely, but don't take or use anything without consulting with your provider. People with more pigment in their skin for example, those of African, North African, Middle Eastern, Latin or Hispanic, Asian, Indian, or Mediterranean descent are more likely to develop chloasma, as they naturally have more active melanin production. Most importantly, try and remind yourself that you likely notice and dwell on your pregnancy melasma more than anyone else, and that youre far from alone in experiencing it. When you are outside, reapply sunscreen once every two hours. It is very likely that if you were going to get Melasma at the time of . Exactly How to Treat the Skin Discoloration. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved, Verywell Family uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Some topical products we have found safe to use during pregnancy are Vitamin-C, Azelaic Acid, Lytera 2.0, and physical sunscreen. Last reviewed by a Cleveland Clinic medical professional on 07/27/2020. How to understand chronic pain; Tools. The agents listed above rarely eradicate all of the melasma. See your dermatologist in that instance. You may notice dark patches or splotches on your forehead, cheeks, chin, or around your mouth. (2020). Another, less common name for melasma, is chloasma. Accessed 7/23/2020. By Cat Matta The second path to take is topical medications. Hello. Certain types of skin discoloration can be a symptom of skin cancer or other medical problems. By Nancy LeBrun 6.7 AOBBIY Hyperpigment Remover. The educational health content on What To Expect is reviewed by our medical review board and team of experts to be up-to-date and in line with the latest evidence-based medical information and accepted health guidelines, including the medically reviewed What to Expect books by Heidi Murkoff.