Everything You Need to Know About Pregnancy and Melasma?

Are you experiencing dark, patchy areas on your skin that have seemed to appear out of nowhere? Have you noticed these patches becoming more prominent during your pregnancy? If so, you may be dealing with a common condition known as melasma.

Melasma can start any time during pregnancy, but it is more common in the second and third trimesters when the hormone levels are high. Some women may notice the first signs of melasma as early as the first trimester, while others may not develop it until later in their pregnancy.

It may also start during the postpartum period, especially if the woman is breastfeeding.

The exact cause of melasma during pregnancy is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to hormonal changes during pregnancy. Melasma is known to run in families and women who are genetically predisposed to melasma usually get melasma during pregnancy.

The pigment producing cells or the melanocytes are triggered and become more active due to the hormonal ups and downs seen in pregnancy, and start producing excessive melanin pigment. This is reflected on the skin as brown – grey patches mainly in a butterfly shape over the face.

Sun exposure, especially UV rays are also known to trigger melasma and thus women who have outdoor work are at more risk. Other factors that may contribute to the development of melasma include certain medications, such as thyroid dysfunction.

It’s a 50 -50 !

The good news is that in many women melasma may fade after pregnancy without treatment, especially if hormonal changes during pregnancy are the only cause of it. However, this is not always the case, and some women may continue to experience melasma even after pregnancy.

Several factors can affect whether melasma goes away after pregnancy, including the severity of the condition, depth of the pigment,skin type, colour etc. Additionally, factors like genetic predisposition, sun and light sensitivity, hormonal medicines etc also play a role in deciding the course of this condition.

Treating melasma on neck during pregnancy can be challenging because some treatments may not be safe for the developing baby. However, there are several options available that can help manage the condition and improve the appearance of the skin. Here are some pregnancy melasma treatments:

Protecting your skin from the sun is one of the most important things you can do to prevent and manage melasma. Wearing protective clothing, such as hats and long-sleeved shirts, and broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 can help shield your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays.

Certain topical creams, such as azelaic acid, glycolic acid, and kojic acid, may be safe to use during pregnancy and can help to lighten the appearance of melasma. However, talking to your healthcare provider before using topical pregnancy melasma treatments is important.

Chemical peels can help improve the appearance of melasma during pregnancy by removing the top layer of the skin and promoting removal of pigment However, not all chemical peels are safe during pregnancy, so discussing this option with a dermatologist is important.

Using makeup to cover melasma can be an effective short-term solution. Look for makeup products labelled “non-comedogenic” or “oil-free” to avoid clogging pores.

While melasma may fade on its own over time, it can also persist for months or even years after childbirth or breastfeeding.

The duration of melasma after breastfeeding can vary from person to person. In some cases, the pigmentation may fade within a few months, while in others, it may persist for several years. In general, the longer a woman has had melasma, the more difficult it may be to treat.

If melasma persists after breastfeeding, several treatments may help reduce the appearance of the pigmentation, including topical medications, chemical peels, and laser therapy. It is important to consult a dermatologist to determine the best treatment plan for your specific needs.

While it is not harmful, melasma during pregnancy can be distressing and disheartening.  Here are some tips on how to cope with pregnancy melasma:

Wear Sunscreen: Sun exposure can make melasma worse. Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum 30 SPF and protection against UVA and high intensity visible light (blue light). Sunscreen should be used indoors, outdoors, daily and in sufficient amounts for optimum protection

Avoid Sun Exposure: Stay out of the sun during peak hours. If you need to be outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat and stay in the shade as much as possible.

Use Gentle Skin Care Products: Use gentle, fragrance-free skin care products that do not irritate your skin. Avoid using products that contain hydroquinone, retinoids, or salicylic acid, as they can be harmful during pregnancy.

Consult a Dermatologist: If the melasma during pregnancy is severe, consult a dermatologist for advice. They may recommend prescription creams or procedures like chemical peels for it. 

Use Make-up: Use a good concealer to hide the pigmentation, even while you’re taking treatment. It is important to feel happy and confident and if concealing can help, you may use make-up for important function, events, meetings etc 

Practice Self-Care: Practice self-care, and don’t be too hard on yourself. Remember that melasma is a common condition that affects many women during pregnancy. Eat a healthy diet, get plenty of rest, and practice stress-reducing activities like yoga or meditation to keep your mind and body healthy.

Melasma during pregnancy is a common skin condition. Various factors, including pregnancy hormones, sun exposure, and genetic makeup, can cause it. While melasma can be a frustrating condition to deal with, different treatment options can help minimise its appearance.

At Clear Skin Clinics in Pune, our experienced dermatologists can comprehensively assess your skin and develop a customised treatment plan to help address your specific needs. 

If you are struggling with melasma or any other skin concern, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our team at Clear Skin Clinics. We aim to help you achieve clear, healthy skin and feel confident in your appearance.