OUR CARIBBEAN SKIN SERIES / Melasma

Caribbean skin is unique; the way we treat it must be too. Not only is it diverse in terms of colour, but different skin types naturally respond differently to environment, stress, hormonal changes, etc., making them more susceptible to certain skin conditions. 

Also called the “mask of pregnancy”, melasma is a specific and quite common form of discolouration. It tends to plague women of colour, though men can get it too. It generally happens on the face and is often symmetrical (hence the mask comparison), but it can also appear on other parts of the body, especially those exposed to sunlight, which aggravates the condition. People with darker skin are more at risk.  

The discolouration may be caused by hormonal changes (pregnancy, menopause), certain medications (birth control pills, hormone therapies), stress, and even harsh skincare products.

While we can generally diagnose melasma by sight, a clinical exam will also determine how many layers of skin are affected. Melasma caused by birth control pills or pregnancy usually resolves on its own, but there are cases that would benefit from treatment.

Treatment options include:

·       Topical steroids and other prescription medications

·       Microdermabrasion

·       Chemical peels

Melasma can be persistent, so there is no guarantee it will completely go away. Sometimes, the only solution is to be consistent with managing it: establish a treatment routine that keeps it under control, stay vigilant with the sunscreen and avoid UV exposure wherever possible. Proper makeup can also be effective with evening out skin tone.

If you’re experiencing skin discolouration and are concerned about it, just give us a call or schedule an appointment.