Melasma, Its Causes and Cures. Get Rid of Melasma.

What exactly is melasma?

Melasma is a skin disorder that leads to a dark discoloration which occurs on both men in addition to women. Melasma results in grayish or brown darkened areas of the extremities of the face - those most apt to become tanned. Still, melasma may also appear on other parts of the body, such as the forearms and neck area.

In general, those of races in addition to ethnicities that have naturally darker skin are more likely to acquire melasma. There is no danger linked to melasma but the skin discoloration can be emotionally or psychologically disappointing to those affected.

What is the cause of melasma?

Melasma is in fact very ordinary and the utmost risk factor is unnecessary sun exposure. Another cause that would boost someone's probability of getting melasma are when female hormones are high, such as while a lady is pregnant, on birth control pills or using hormone replacements.

Who is most apt to get melasma?

Women have a tendency to get melasma more than men but both sexes and all races can be affected. However, it is more possible that women that have darker complexions and live in tropical climates, where they are constantly exposed to the destructive rays of the sun, will develop melasma.

What healing options are available?

From time to time melasma will fade away on its own, after reducing sun exposure, giving birth or stopping the use of hormones and certain medications. However, there are treatments which can speed up the process.

There are topical skin lightening products such as creams, lotions, gels, tonics and soaps which can be found easily. You could find something that costs anywhere from $10 to $100 per product. The cost really depends on the ingredients used, the quality and effectiveness of the products. A well recognized product for melasma is SkinBright Skin Brightener. It can be purchased directly from the manufacturer at skinbright.com .

There are pills that can be taken that can also cost anywhere from $50 to $100 dollars per bottle. Effectiveness of these pills are questionable at best.

There are also laser treatments that can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 depending on how extensive the area is that needs to be treated. We would recommend exhausting other options before attempting this costly and risky process.

Of course the best and least expensive remedy is avoiding the growth of melasma altogether. By using sunscreen daily, covering up when you go outside, especially in hot climates and avoiding the sun for long periods if you are pregnant or using hormones - you can feel secure you will not be likely to develop melasma.

Home remedies for melasma

Some people do not want to spend a lot of money on melasma so they may try one of the following home remedies, which all use the juice of a common household produce item or something you already have on hand.

One ordinary item is vinegar. The idea is that you mix up the vinegar with a bit of water to reduce its strength and then apply with a cotton ball all over the face. Vinegar contains acetic acid and is thought to be able to brighten the skin.

Another suggestion involves mixing vinegar with onion juice obtained by squeezing the juice of a chopped or pureed onion through a sieve and rub on to the affected areas.

Lemon juice is another distinctively used home remedy, to be applied similar to the above methods. Just remember, these natural products are astringent, meaning they will dry up the skin, so make sure you moisturize too!

Give each of these remedies a few weeks to work before you try to notice a significant change in the color of the skin.

Myths and Misconceptions

It can be difficult to find that you have developed melasma but a common myth is that it is some kind of irreparable disease. That is not true - with reduced sun exposure and some time and treatment, it will go away.

One common misunderstanding is that all treatments are equal - that is not the case. Make sure you avoid any products that include the ingredients hydroquinone, mercury-derived ingredients or steroids. These are known carcinogens or otherwise toxic and harmful to the body. You will want to contentrate on products that contain natural ingredients such as Alpha Arbutin, Kojic Acid, Licorice, and other natural alternatives. You will also want to have rational expectations. Nothing is going to come about overnight. It is important that you follow all instructions and give the product you decide on time to work. Do not be disappointed if you find something does not work as rapidly as you would like. You did not develop the melasma overnight and it will not disappear overnight either. Expect a few months minimum therapy to see substantial outcome.