What is the Cause Behind Melasma During Pregnancy
Melasma, also known as the “mask of pregnancy”, is a common skin disorder that is characterised by brown or grey-brown patches mainly on the face. These patches usually appear on the cheeks, forehead, nose, chin, and upper lip. Melasma is more common in women than men, but it occurs in anyone, and especially during pregnancy due to all the hormonal shifts that go along with it.
Pregnancy causes an increase in hormones, including oestrogen and progesterone, which stimulates the overstimulation of melanin (the pigment that gives skin colour). This is when the process of creating melanin becomes irregular or overdone and these dark patches form. When combined with the sun, a predisposition to this condition, even cosmetic products that can exacerbate it, the skin is much more easily damaged and reacts easily to these aggressions.
Why Does Melasma Occur as a Parameter During Pregnancy
Hormonal changes are the most frequent cause of melasma during pregnancy. Pigment-producing cells in the skin, called melanocytes, are stimulated by increasingly high levels of oestrogen, progesterone, and melanocyte-stimulating hormones. When these cells become more active, they make too much melanin, leading to dark patches of skin.
Sun exposure, as well, is associated with melasma. YOU MAY ALSO LIKE— Ultraviolet rays from the sun trigger the mucous membrane because ultraviolet can exacerbate existing pigmentation. That is why many pregnant women observe that their melasma gets worse when exposed to the sun. It’s not just UV rays that also have genetic factors that play into it. In case there is any close family relative who developed melasma when pregnant, the chances of developing melasma additionally increase.
Dermocosmetics such as superglow nf cream for the treatment of melasma are often adjusted. A combination of ingredients in this cream works to lighten pigmented skin and give a more even skin tone. That being said, not all products are pregnancy safe, so be sure to speak to a professional before starting any course of treatment.
Common Risk Factors
There are several such risk factors that help develop or worsen melasma in pregnancy —
Hormonal changes: Melanin production is stimulated by oestrogen and progesterone, which increase during pregnancy.
- Sun exposure: UV rays directly stimulate melanocytes and increase pigmentation
- Genetics History: Melasma does run in families, so you may be at risk; however, it cannot be passed down specifically
- Skin-irritating beauty products: Certain cosmetics or creams have been known to irritate the skin and can lead to pigmentation development or exacerbation.
How To Prevent Melasma While Pregnant
Although you may not be able to eliminate it altogether, you can do things to reduce the visibility of melasma:
1. Sun Protection
The biggest trigger for melasma is sun exposure. Evaluate if the woman is capable of handling the heavy-duty work of applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen that is at least SPF 30 on a daily basis, and even when the weather is miserable outside, or if the pregnant lady spends the majority of the time home near a window. It is also important to wear wide-brimmed hats and stay in the shade during peak sunlight hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).
2. Gentle Skincare
Do not use severe chemical exfoliants or grout; they act by damaging the skin and making the pigmentation only worse. Use gentle fragrance-free cleansers and moisturisers to protect the skin barrier.
3. Avoid Waxing
Waxing leads to inflammation which aggravates melasma. Try non-irritating hair removal treatments during pregnancy.
4. Keep Well Hydrated and on a Healthy Diet
Staying hydrated and consuming a diet that is high in antioxidants (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) can also be beneficial to maintain skin health and to reduce oxidative stress, which can decrease factors in hyperpigmentation.
However, during pregnancy, the options to treat melasma safely are limited.
Keep in mind that melasma that appears during pregnancy should be treated with caution since not all topical ingredients are safe to use while pregnant. Many melasma treatments, like hydroquinone, retinoids, or chemical peels, are usually avoided during pregnancy.
Instead, dermatologists might recommend a safer alternative, as per the advice passed on to the individual cases of the national media of the republic:
1. Topical Azelaic Acid
It is safe during pregnancy and works as an acid to decrease pigmentation. It acts by inhibiting the production of melanin and also has an anti-inflammatory effect.
2. Vitamin C Serums
Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that whitens the skin and decreases hyperpigmentation. In moderate concentrations, it is considered safe to use during pregnancy.
3. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
Another pregnancy-safe constituent that has shown promise in diminishing hyperpigmentation and refining skin tone and texture.
4. Recommended creams by dermatologist
Dermatologists sometimes prescribe mild topical medications, such as Superglow Nf Cream, that include niacinamide, natural skin bleachers, and skin moisturisers. These creams are designed to reduce pigmentation without the risk of irritation. Nonetheless, any medicated cream must be used only under medical supervision throughout pregnancy.
What will be happening post-delivery?
The bright side is that pregnancy-induced melasma usually disappears post-delivery, when hormones return to normal. But the condition may remain, requiring ongoing treatment, in some women after pregnancy.
More aggressive treatments can be tried if melasma persists after pregnancy and breastfeeding, including:
- Hydroquinone-based prescription creams
- Chemical peels
- Laser therapy
- Microneed
It is best to see a dermatologist first, as they will identify whether the treatments suit your skin type and condition.
Takeaway
Something that is quite common but is usually temporary in pregnancy is a condition called melasma. It can be irritating — frankly, for many people, it’s no different when it degrades a man’s appearance — and it is not the most serious condition a person could have, nor is it a mature one, but it is treatable. Preventing melasma from getting worse with avoidance of sunlight and sensitive skin care products helps prevent melasma from becoming more severe and may even help to treat it. For those who require treatment, products such as Superglow Nf Cream may provide significant relief, especially when used under professional consultation.
Keep in mind that each pregnancy is different, and skin changes like melasma are very normal. Melasma can and should be controlled with the appropriate knowledge, care, and medical guidance while achieving healthy, glowing skin.
