Getting pregnant transforms a woman’s life in many ways. Hormonal imbalance may affect the future mother’s humor, her appetite and even her skin. Some women observe an irregular coloration on their faces, in the form of diffuse spots that are particularly apparent on the forehead, on the cheekbones and around the mouth. This phenomenon is called melasma (also pregnancy mask or chloasma).
Although this condition is not exclusive to pregnant women, these remain the most affected. After giving birth, the skin hyperpigmentation may decrease, but some traces may persist.
The causes
Melasma is caused by an overproduction of melanin that is due to hormonal imbalances: pregnancy, birth control pills or IUD insertion. Other factors, such as UV exposure, genetic predisposition, age and some anti-epileptic medications, may also lead to this skin condition. Women with darker skin colour are at higher risk to develop a melasma than others.
Types of melasma
There are three types of melasma : epidermal, dermal and mixed.
Epidermal melasma is the most superficial; it only affects the superior layer of the skin : the epidermis. The hyperpigmentation is brown with well-defined contours. It is the only type of melasma that can be treated with gentle peelings and photorejuvenation.
Dermal melasma affects a deeper layer of the skin, the dermis. Blue-grey spots are observable. It is best to consult a dermatologist in this particular case; dermal melasma can’t be treated with any service we offer at SKINS.
Mixed melasma is a combination of both previous forms. Many people are affected by this type of melasma. Unfortunately, we’re able to treat the superficial (epidermal) part of the problem only. The other part, the deeper (dermal) one, can be controlled but not entirely removed.
Possible treatments
Epidermal melasma can be treated in different ways. After a skin consultation, the technician will determine the best solution. It is recommended to wait after the delivery and breastfeeding period before beginning a treatment cure.
A chemical solution is applied on the skin, causing a superficial burn. A few days after the treatment, the burnt skin will peel off and fall, allowing its regeneration and the gradual reduction of the pregnancy mask’s appearance. It is best to avoid the sun after a peeling, as the new skin is temporarily sensitive to sunrays.
Photorejuvenation (IPL) is a very effective technique to even the skin and to get rid of dark spots. IPL will “burn” the brown spot to reduce its color significantly and even make it disappear. Several treatments (usually 3 to 5) are required to get optimal results. It is recommended to schedule a session from time to time to maintain the results.
Products routine : our recommendations
Morning
- SkinCeuticals Advanced pigment corrector
- SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF
FPS50 sunscreen
Night
- SkinCeuticals Advanced pigment corrector
- SkinCeuticals Retinol 0,5