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[I:http://www.uniquearticlewizard.com/extras/pics/jeffbarsonthumb27.jpg]Although it might appear scary, Melasma is a very common and strictly cosmetic skin disorder which induces dark, abnormal patches surrounding the face and neck.

Melasma is prompted by the mix of lengthy periods of sun and hormonal fluctuations, which is why it is also known as “chloasma faciel,” or the “face of pregnancy.” With the 2 issues together, melanin-generating cells (which are the cause of skin color) enter overdrive, making skin to be darker than it should in areas.

Along with pregnancy and genetic factors, Melasma is often brought on by contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, skin infection, hair waxing, thyroid diseases, and excessive stress levels. Also, a number of prescriptions like tetracycline or quinine may cause melanin production.

The easiest way to prevent Melasma, or keep it from getting worse, is to protect the skin from sun exposure. Stay out of the sun as much as possible, and if you must stay outside long, wear protective clothing and a hat, and be sure to use sunscreen each day to prevent UV radiation. For added protection, find a sunblock that contains physical blockers such as zinc dioxide and titanium dioxide, with an SPF of no less than 30.

For most pregnant women, Melasma can disappear by itself after giving birth. Many times it might persist for several months, or even years, before disappearing.

Even if there isn’t a known cure for Melasma, there are many ways to minimize the look of it by lightening the brown sections over time.

One of the most asked for alternatives is using a hydroquinone-based chemical peel, which, after application, can travel deep into the layers of the skin to reduce dark discoloration and prevent it from worsening.

Superficial peels containing alpha hydroxyacids or glycolic acid can also help, albeit with several additional treatments than a hydroquinone chemical peel would need. The upside is that superficial peels have a much easier recovery time. Both of these options are available without a prescription.

Treatments using a Fraxel laser or IPL therapy can be a more serious and expensive alternative, but can provide better outcomes at times. Make sure to consult a qualified and experienced dermatologist for your laser session.

Cosmetic Laser MD is a community of plastic surgeons, dermatologists, and aesthetic physicians with more than 5,500 medical spa members world-wide. Medical Spa MD offers patients resources for melasma chemical peel and offers information on nonsurgical cosmetic medical technologies and treatments for skin clinic patients.