Condition: Melasma

Melasma or chloasma is a condition of the skin in which pigmentation darkens into tan or brown patches. The cheeks, bridge of the nose, forehead and upper lip are the areas of the skin most commonly affected by melasma. Ninety percent of all cases of melasma occur in women. Only ten percent of those affected are men.

The most common cause of melasma is pregnancy (often referred to as a mask of pregnancy). Women taking oral contraceptives may also be at risk for developing melasma. Oxidation is a very common cause of melasma as ultra violet light from the sun can stimulate melanocytes (the cells that produce melanin or pigment) in the skin. People with skin of color, including Hispanics, Asians, Indians, and people from the Middle East or Northern Africa are more likely to have more active melanocytes than those with lighter skin and are therefore more prone to melasma. Melasma may reoccur or worsen during the summer months due to increased sun exposure and fade during the winter months.

There is no cure for melasma however, if pregnancy is the cause of the condition, it may disappear following pregnancy. Melasma can remain for many years or a lifetime.

The Wellness Solution

A Total Oxidation Management approach is a non-irritating, non-invasive wellness approach to help improve the appearance of skin affected by melasma. Two Steps, Two Minutes, Two Times a day using nature’s own freshly-activated vitamin C (L-ascorbic acid) and natural vitamin E (mixed tocopherols) followed by a broad spectrum sunscreen containing zinc oxide (protects against sun’s UVA and UVB rays) can:

• Help inhibit melanin production to fade pigmentation patches
• Scavenge oxidizing free radicals from the sun’s ultra violet rays that stimulate melanin production
• Help promote natural collagen production for healthy cell growth
• Normalize the natural exfoliation rate of skin
• Protect skin against UV-induced damage with zinc oxide (one of only two Broad Spectrum sunscreen ingredients approved by the FDA)

Procedures such as chemical peels, laser, or microdermabrasion which radically exfoliate skin can cause irritation and may worsen melasma. Facial cleansers, creams or lotions that contain glycolic acid, hydroquinone, tretinoin or steroids can cause irritation and/or extreme sensitivity to ultra violet light (sun exposure).