Hormonal hyperpigmentation, also known as melasma or chloasma, is a problem that affects many women. They are characterized by symmetrical, dark spots on the face – most often on the forehead, cheeks, upper lip and chin. Although they are not dangerous to health, they can significantly lower self-esteem and are difficult to hide with makeup. But rest assured, there are effective methods to combat them!
In this article you will learn exactly what melasma is, what causes it and how to effectively get rid of it and prevent recurrences.
What Is Melasma and Why Does It Arise?
Melasma is a chronic skin pigmentation disorder that manifests as irregular brown or gray-brown patches. It most often appears in women of childbearing age, but can also occur in men (although much less frequently).
The main causes of melasma formation are:
- Hormonal Changes: This is a key factor. Pregnancy (the so-called “mask of pregnancy”), use of oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, and thyroid disorders can increase the risk of melasma. Hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, stimulate melanocytes (cells that produce the skin pigment melanin) to overproduce.
- Sun Exposure: UV radiation is a major trigger and aggravator of melasma. Even minor sun exposure without adequate protection can cause existing spots to appear or worsen.
- Genetic Predisposition: If melasma has run in your family, there is a higher likelihood that you will also struggle with it.
- Certain Medications and Cosmetics: Some photosensitizers in medications or cosmetics can increase skin sensitivity to the sun and contribute to hyperpigmentation.
Effective Methods to Fight Hormonal Discoloration
Fighting melasma requires patience and consistency, and often a combination of several methods.
1. daily and year-round sun protection
This is the absolute basis and the most important part of the treatment. Without it, no other methods will have lasting effects, and discoloration will recur.
- Wear a hat or avoid exposure to the sun during peak hours
- Use natural cosmetics containing, for example, raspberry seed oil, vitamin C
2. Cosmetics with Active Ingredients to Reduce Discoloration
Reach for specialized dermocosmetics containing substances that inhibit melanin synthesis and accelerate the removal of pigment from the epidermis.
- Hexylresorcinol: An effective and safe ingredient that inhibits a key enzyme responsible for melanin production. You can find it in our BIOSOMA Hyperpigmentation Cream.
- Vitamin C (stable forms): A powerful antioxidant that brightens the skin and inhibits the formation of new discoloration.
- AHA acids (e.g. glycolic, lactic): They gently exfoliate the epidermis, speeding up cell replacement and the removal of discolored skin. Use them with caution and always in combination with SPF sunscreen.
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Strengthens the skin barrier and inhibits melanin transport to keratinocytes.
- Azelaic acid: It has brightening, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
- Retinoids (retinol, retinal): Accelerate cell renewal, but their use requires great caution, especially in cases of melasma, due to potential irritation and increased sun sensitivity.
3. professional Cabinet Treatments
If home care does not produce satisfactory results, consider aesthetic medicine treatments.
- Chemical peels: Specialized peels (e.g. with mandelic acid, azelaic acid, lactic acid, TCA) can significantly lighten hyperpigmentation. They are performed by a doctor or cosmetologist.
- Mesotherapy: injection of active substances (e.g. vitamin C, tranexamic acid) directly into the skin.
- Laser therapy: Lasers such as picosecond or Q-switched can be very effective, but require a doctor’s experience, as inappropriate parameters can exacerbate melasma.
