Melasma

Melasma is a dark skin discoloration that appears on areas of the face that are exposed to the sun. A uniform brown color may appear on the cheeks, forehead, nose, upper lip, or chin. It is often symmetrical on both sides of the face. Melasma is a very common skin condition that most often affects women that are pregnant, women that are taking oral contraceptives, or women taking hormone replacement therapy during menopause. Melasma is associated with the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. Melasma doesn’t cause any other symptoms besides skin discoloration which is only of cosmetic concern. Your physician can easily diagnose the condition based upon the appearance of your skin. Melasma can be treated with a variety of topical creams. For severe cases your doctor may recommend seeing a dermatologist for laser treatments. Avoiding the sun and using sunscreen are crucial to preventing melasma. Melasma often fades several months after giving birth or stopping the use of birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy. It may return with additional pregnancies or use of medication again. SkinStore.com offers a wide selection of products that help fade melasma. For use during pregnancy we suggest Caudalie Vinoperfect Radiance Serum.  Caudalie is a natural baby safe alternative to stronger treatments that are not safe for use until after pregnancy, but please make sure to ask your doctor first before using any new products in your regimen. Vinoperfect Radiance Serum brightens and smoothes the skin boosting radiance. Your complexion looks more even improving the overall skin tone and clarity. If you are not pregnant or nursing we suggest iS Clinical White Lightening Complex. White Lightening  Complex effectively brightens and lightens skin with beneficial moisturizing properties. Using an innovative blend of lightening ingredients and pharmaceutical grade botanicals, this formula concentrates on not one or two but all five mechanisms that address hyperpigmentation. In addition to using these great products, it’s crucial to use a sunscreen daily with an SPF of at least 30. We love La Roche Posay Anthelios Mineral Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid SPF 50. It’s a 100% mineral UV protection sunscreen that is super lightweight, non-greasy, and does not leave a white residue perfect for everyday use. Source: U.S. National Library of Medicine Please remember to enter into the SkinStore.com GIVEAWAY! See our Facebook page for details!