Getting pregnant is a crucial and enjoyable experience. However, this exciting journey is more complicated. One may have heard of the “pregnancy glow,” but not everyone has flawless skin during this hormonally charged period. Breakouts and sensitivities are natural and common. Some women develop a condition known as melasma throughout their pregnancy. Let’s find out about this condition and the aspects related to it. Those looking for melasma treatment can also learn where to find the right Melasma Treatment in Delhi. Start by knowing what melasma is during pregnancy.
What is Melasma in Pregnancy?
Melasma is a skin disorder in which the skin’s melanocytes (color-producing cells) create too much pigment for some reason. It’s commonly called chloasma or the “mask of pregnancy.”
Chloasma is a cosmetic problem. It does not affect the baby and does not suggest any other pregnancy issues. People with darker complexion, such as those of African, North African, Middle Eastern, Latin or Hispanic, Asian, Indian, or Mediterranean origin, are more susceptible to developing chloasma because they produce more melanin naturally.
According to research by PubMed Central, Melasma affects between 50 and 70 percent of pregnant people.
What are the Causes of Melasma?
Melasma can be produced by hormonal changes during pregnancy, which cause a transient increase in the amount of melanin the body generates. Melanin is a natural chemical that imparts colour to the hair, skin, and eyes.
Sun exposure, stress, and some medications may also contribute.
Melasma is prevalent during pregnancy; nevertheless, the following individuals are more prone to have the condition:
- Women with darker complexions are more prone to have melasma than those with lighter skin.
- Women with one or more biological relatives with melasma
- Women aged 20–40
Symptoms of Melasma During Pregnancy
The main sign of chloasma is the darkening of the skin on the face. One may detect dark patches or splotches on their brow, cheeks, chin, or mouth. These spots may darken as one spends more time in the sun or the pregnancy progresses.
Melasma symptoms do not include pain, itching, or soreness. If one notices these symptoms or develops significant discomfort, one may have another illness. Discuss any additional symptoms one has with the doctor.
A dermatologist can accurately identify the disease with a Wood’s lamp, which can reveal whether a skin condition is bacterial, fungal, or otherwise problematic.
Home Solutions for Melasma while Pregnant
Experts claim melasma is difficult to treat on their own at home. It’s even more difficult to treat during pregnancy because we’re limited in terms of what treatments and procedures can be done.
If one comes across some home remedies to treat melasma during pregnancy, proceed with caution and consult the doctor before beginning any DIY regimen. Aloe vera and turmeric are effective in studies. However, other components may exacerbate skin conditions. Simply put, follow the advice of a dermatologist or obstetrician.
How to Prevent Melasma from occuring?
Melasma-related changes in skin pigmentation normally resolve on their own after birth. Still, there are a few things one may do to reduce darker spots on the skin during pregnancy safely:
- Use Sun Protection. This is important since the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays produce melasma and exacerbate pigment alterations. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen (a formula that protects against both UVA and UVB rays) with an SPF of 30 or more every day, even when it’s not sunny, and reapply frequently if one is outside. This applies even if one has dark skin. Although black skin contains more melanin (pigment) than lighter skin and does not burn as quickly, it is insufficient to protect one from damaging UV radiation.
Even if one plans to stay in the house or spend little time outside, including sun protection in the daily routine is a good idea. The American Academy of Dermatology warns that walking down the street, driving in a car, or even sitting inside near a window exposes the skin to considerable UV light.
- Wear Hat. If one’s arms’ colouring changes, wear a wide-brimmed hat and a long-sleeved shirt when one goes outside. Limit the time in the sun, particularly between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Also, avoid tanning salons.
- Do Not Wax. Using wax to remove hair can induce skin inflammation, exacerbating melasma, particularly in body parts affected by pigmentation changes.
- Use Hypoallergenic Skincare Products. Cleansers and face creams that irritate the skin may exacerbate melasma.
- Apply Concealer. If the darkened areas disturb one, cover them up with makeup. Concealer with white and yellow undertones is generally effective but consult with makeup specialists at the local store to get the best product for the skin type. One can also seek counsel from a skilled dermatologist. Avoid using skin-bleaching products while pregnant, and see the doctor before using them if one is breastfeeding.
Consult the Best Skin Doctor in Rajouri Garden
Those looking for melasma treatment must seek help from a skilled dermatologist. One can consult the best skin doctor in Rajouri Garden at Dadu Medical Centre. Dr. Nivedita Dadu, an expert doctor, founded this advanced centre. She provides effective treatments like hydroquinone, retinoids, chemical peels, and laser treatments. One can consult the doctor at two prime Delhi locations: Rajouri Garden (West Delhi) & Vasant Vihar (South Delhi).