Melasma, often referred to as the “mask of pregnancy”, is a common skin condition characterised by dark, discoloured patches on the skin. Whilst it’s a global issue, this condition is particularly prevalent in tropical countries like Thailand due to its intense sun exposure. Understanding melasma triggers and learning how to protect your skin can make a significant difference in managing this condition. Sita Clinic want to explain what causes melasma and share strategies for safeguarding your skin against it.
Melasma appears predominantly on areas of the face such as the cheeks, forehead, nose bridge, and chin but can also develop on other parts of the body exposed to sunlight. The primary trigger for melasma is UV radiation from sun exposure. Thailand’s warm climate means that people are more frequently outdoors, increasing their risk of developing melasma without adequate protection. UV rays stimulate melanocytes (the cells responsible for pigment) to produce excess colouration in the skin, resulting in those characteristic brown patches.
Hormonal fluctuations significantly influence melasma development as well. This is why many women experience melasma during pregnancy or when using oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy. Such hormonal changes can lead to increased production of melanin in certain areas of the skin. In Thailand, where traditional herbal remedies are often blended with modern medicine practices, it’s important to acknowledge that some herbs may affect hormone levels and potentially exacerbate melasma.
Genetics also play a role in determining one’s susceptibility to developing melasma. People with darker skin tones, which are more common among Thai individuals—tend to have more active melanocytes and thus are at higher risk for pigmentation disorders like melasma. While you can’t change your genetic makeup, understanding it helps tailor preventive measures effectively.
Stress is another factor that might not only contribute to hormonal imbalances but also aggravate existing cases of melasma by disrupting normal bodily functions. The bustling lifestyle prevalent in urban areas such as Bangkok adds stressors that could influence one’s physical health including skin conditions like deep melasma treatment (known as วิธีรักษาฝ้าลึก in Thai) needs.
Prevention primarily involves minimising sun exposure through protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses with UV protection lenses and broad-spectrum sunscreen application, even on cloudy days, as UV rays penetrate clouds too! In Thailand’s humid weather ensuring sunscreens are lightweight yet effective becomes crucial, look for non-comedogenic formulas suited to your specific skin type.
While managing melasma can be challenging given its multiple triggers ranging from environmental factors like sun exposure to internal influences such as hormones or genetics, understanding these elements empowers individuals towards proactive skincare routines tailored specifically for them! For those living under sunny skies like Thailand’s taking diligent preventive actions daily remains key not just addressing superficial symptoms but maintaining an overall healthy complexion long-term. Keep informed stay protected embrace natural beauty confidently despite any challenges posed by conditions like deep-rooted melasmas requiring treatments beyond surface level solutions.