Skin Health

Melasma 101 From A Skin Health Expert

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In the realm of skin care, melasma is one of the most common issues licensed aesthetician and laser practitioner Erin Blackwell sees among her patients.

"There’s a lot of melasma out in the world. A lot of people have this on their skin," she explains. Melasma is often mistaken for sun damage, but Blackwell notes, "I’m seeing [melasma] more and more and more. That’s becoming a very popular concern."

So What Is It?

Melasma is a complex skin condition affecting all depths of the skin, specifically the dermal and epidermal layers. Blackwell elaborates, "Sometimes it’s referred to as the pregnancy mask. Now we’re seeing it in all skin types and for men and women." Identified by patchy pigment that typically appears on the cheeks, forehead, neck and chest, melasma is "essentially inflammation of the skin," Blackwell explains.

What Causes It?

Various factors can trigger melasma, including hormonal changes, medications, traumatic situations, even extreme sun exposure - which is why the condition is so intricately linked to sun damage. "People that are snow skiing all the time, or people who are on boats and have the reflection of the water coming up all the time, these are people that have melasma," says Blackwell. She also emphasizes the prevalence of the condition, stating, "I would say every other patient has something that appears like it, and sometimes it’s hard to know if the person has melasma or if it’s just sun damage."

How Is It Treated?

Melasma is a persistent condition that requires ongoing maintenance. "It is never gone. It’s always going to be a lifetime maintenance," Blackwell asserts. She likens skin care to physical fitness, saying, "The skin is the largest organ of the body and we have to treat it as such. I always say, you don’t go to the gym and lose ten pounds the first time," she adds, "It’s a continuous maintenance."

Addressing melasma and other skin conditions effectively involves understanding the root causes and committing to a consistent skincare regimen. Blackwell’s expertise underscores the importance of tailored treatments and long-term care in managing skin health issues like melasma. Speak with a licensed expert for more guidance on treating your specific skin issues.

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