Skin Discoloration/Melasma Treatment

This common skin condition presents as blotches or freckles of brown, black or blue-grey color, typically on the face but also on the neck, arms, and back. It commonly appears on pregnant women and is known as the “mask of pregnancy.” Treatment is available for this harmless condition at Spectrum Dermatology of Atlanta.

Melasma is caused by the melanin in your skin that provides pigmentation or color. It is triggered by exposure to sunlight, hormonal changes or reactions to some medications. It is a chronic condition, so if you develop melasma, it can come and go or worsen with certain triggers; sunlight is a common trigger that darkens melasma. Sometimes patches of melasma can become darkened or inflamed.

Melasma is not cancerous and does not raise your risk for cancer. However, some skin cancers can look like common melasma, so an experienced dermatologist should examine any skin condition that develops to rule out cancer. The main concern with melasma is usually aesthetic; some are embarrassed by outbreaks of dark patches or spots.

Effective Dermatological Melasma Treatment

There is no cure that can completely eliminate melasma. Treatments and lifestyle adjustments can help prevent outbreaks and lessen their impact on your life. Dr. Susan Spitzler and Dr. Emma Murad are our talented dermatologists who can help you discover the primary triggers for your melasma. They can also develop a treatment plan to help with symptoms and prevent outbreaks.

Medications exist for lessening the visibility of the spots and avoiding your melasma triggers, like heightened sun exposure or hormone medications, can help you reduce outbreaks. Dr. Spitzler or Dr. Murad can answer your questions and help you live your best life with melasma. Call or contact us online at Spectrum Dermatology of Atlanta for professional and experienced melasma diagnosis and treatment in the Atlanta Metro area.