Pregnant? Here's What You Should Know About Melasma

There’s a lot of ways pregnancy changes your body. One common skin issue pregnancy can cause is melasma, a condition that causes skin discoloration primarily in the face.

At Balcones Dermatology & Aesthetics, board-certified dermatologist David A. Bushore, MD, specializes in diagnosing and treating melasma, so you can love your skin again. Dr. Bushore can also provide resources that can keep your skin healthy throughout pregnancy and beyond.

Understanding melasma

Melasma is a skin condition that causes dark freckles and bluish-gray or brown patches to develop on your face, especially on your cheeks, the bridge of your nose, and your forehead. If you spend time in the sun, you might also experience melasma patches on your neck and upper arms.

While you can develop melasma at any time, the condition is very common in pregnancy. In fact, melasma is referred to as the mask of pregnancy, because so many women develop the discolored skin patches when expecting.

The root cause of melasma isn’t well understood. But researchers have some possible theories. For example, they say changes in hormone levels due to pregnancy or using birth control might trigger the condition. Men can also develop melasma, but only a small percentage of them do.

Melasma can go away on its own without treatment. However, the condition can last for years in some women. If you’re unhappy with your appearance because of melasma, you can find customized care plans at Balcones Dermatology & Aesthetics.

Exploring your treatment options for melasma

There are several treatments that can eliminate the freckles and discolored patches from your skin. Initially, board-certified dermatologist David A. Bushore, MD, may recommend lifestyle changes to help protect your skin and keep the condition from worsening.

This may include wearing sunscreen every day, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, and staying indoors to avoid exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.

If your melasma doesn’t fade on its own, Dr. Bushore can discuss your options for minimally invasive treatment, such as:

Chemical peels

During a chemical peel, we apply a chemical to remove the surface layers of your skin and dead skin cells, so the healthy, new skin beneath can shine through.

Laser treatments

Laser treatments use advanced laser technology to break down skin cells that contribute to melasma discoloration. Laser energy can also stimulate your body’s natural healing processes to boost the production of collagen, which is an essential protein needed for healthy skin.

Board-certified dermatologist David A. Bushore, MD, uses the Fraxel™ DUAL laser system to address melasma, sun damage, and age-related wrinkles and fine lines.

DiamondGlow™ Dermalinfusion

DiamondGlow Dermalinfusion is a procedure where we use a diamond abrasive tip to exfoliate the upper layers of your skin. After exfoliation, we also infuse your skin with specific serums to minimize the appearance of dark spots and other skin discolorations.

We also offer recommendations for skin care products that can keep your skin hydrated and improve its texture and tone.

If you have melasma and want treatment, or if you want to see if you have melasma, we can help. To learn more, call 512-459-4869 or book an appointment online with Balcones Dermatology & Aesthetics today.