Melasma and Choasma
Further information
What symptoms does Melasma cause?
Melasma does not cause any other symptoms beyond the cosmetic discoloration.
For some, Melasma can cause cosmetic concern
What causes melasma?
The precise cause of Melasma is unknown. People with a family history of Melasma are more likely to develop Melasma themselves. It’s thought that Melasma is caused by the stimulation of melanocytes or pigment-producing cells by the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone to produce more melanin pigments when the skin is exposed to sun. A change in hormonal status may trigger Melasma. Sun exposure contributes to Melasma.
The likelihood of developing Melasma increases in patients with thyroid disease. Overproduction of melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) sometimes caused by stress can result in outbreaks of this condition.
In rare cases, Melasma can be triggered by an allergic reaction to medications and cosmetics.
How do I know if I have Melasma?
Melasma can be diagnosed visually. At the Harley Street Medical Skin Clinic we also use the Visia Skin Analysis system to highlight any areas of excessive melanin in the epidermis.