Melasma is caused by overactivity of melanocytes in the cheeks, chin, forehead, or nose bridge area. While we know this is what causes the brown patches, we do not know what stimulates the overactivity of the melanocytes. It has been observed that pregnancy, sunlight, stress, tanning beds, and some medications-like birth control- can trigger melasma.

Since the reasons behind melasma are not well known, there is no way to know if you are susceptible to developing it. Therefore, it is generally best to avoid prolonged direct sunlight and tanning beds, and be aware that if you become pregnant or begin to take birth control you may develop this condition.

Melasma is a complicated condition, and there is no one treatment that works for everyone. Therefore, a lot of trial and error in treatments is often necessary. This, combined with the fact that treatment often must be done regularly, can make treating melasma very frustrating. We currently have two treatments for melasma: the Clarity II and Ultra lasers. These lasers work by targeting the pigment and breaking it up to be flushed out of the body. Since they can only treat existing pigment, they are not able to prevent more melasma from developing.

Because melasma is not well understood, we can only guess at who is at risk for developing it There are however some common factors in those most likely to develop melasma: women between the ages of 20 and 40, those with a medium or dark skin tone, and those that have relatives with melasma. If you have these risk factors, take extra care with sun protection and avoid tanning beds.

If you have seen a dermatologist and received medication, be sure to strictly follow that regimen. You can also cover any dark areas with makeup if you want. The most important thing you can do, though, is wear a broad-spectrum SPF daily, and reapply if you’re sweating, swimming, or spending a long time in the sun.