Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Jane Yoo explains melasma, the dark patches that appear on cheeks, upper lip, and forehead, especially in people with darker skin tones. Hormonal changes, sun exposure, and genetics trigger it. Treatment ranges from topical creams to laser therapy, but the real fix is broad-spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen applied generously and reapplied often, since even minimal UV exposure can bring it back.
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Hi, I'm Dr. Jane Yoo, board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon. Now let's talk about melasma, a skin condition that many people experience, especially those with darker skin tones. Melasma causes dark, discolored patches often appearing on the cheeks, upper lip, or forehead. It can be quite frustrating because it tends to develop gradually and can be quite persistent. Well, what causes melasma, you ask? Well, hormones often play a big role. It's common during pregnancy or when taking birth control pills, but other factors like sun exposure or even genetics can contribute. Melasma is more frequent in women, particularly those with Latina, African, or Asian heritage due to higher levels of melanin in the skin. Treatments like topical creams can help lighten the pigmentation and more advanced options like chemical peels and laser treatments are effective at fading those dark patches. The key to managing melasma, however, is protecting your skin from the sun. Sunscreen isn't just a recommendation, it's critical and crucial. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply regularly. Even a small amount of sun exposure can trigger melasma to come back or worsen. Understanding melasma and staying consistent with sun protection treatments can make a big difference in how your skin looks and feels.
