Hyperpigmentation and Melasma: Are they the same or different?

All fingers are not the same and just like that not, all skin problems are the same. No matter if they sound alike, or maybe even look alike, and just like that even melasma and hyperpigmentation are not the same. Actually, melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation; we can say that all melasma are hyperpigmentation but not all hyperpigmentation is melasma. For a better understanding, let us dig a little more into the topic.

Hyperpigmentation

It is a medical term accustomed to describe darker patches of skin. The cause of these patches is excess melanin production, it is a common skin condition. While increased pigmentation isn’t harmful, it can be an indication of another medical condition. Excess production of melanin could be a common explanation for hyperpigmentation. It is a pigment that provides color to the skin. Melanocytes are the skin cells that produce melanin. Several factors can alter the production of melanin in your body and excess production can cause hyperpigmentation. Certain medications and drugs, pregnancy, sun exposure are some of the causes of hyperpigmentation.

Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, freckles that expanded into full-blown sunspots, or discoloration caused by a condition like eczema or psoriasis all fall under the umbrella of hyperpigmentation. Melanocytes, the pigment-making cells can be easily stimulated by skin, acne, sunlight, skin rashes, to make a surplus of pigment

The deeper it is, the tougher it is to treat. For instance- A section of skin, without any proper protection is exposed to UV rays will be harder to heal. In other words, the level of severity varies, the severe it is harder it is to treat. If you spot discoloration on your skin that wasn't there before, then it can be assumed that it's hyperpigmentation; but to be 100% sure you should consult a dermatologist.

Melasma or “the mask of pregnancy” is caused by hormonal changes and majorly develops during pregnancy. In melasma, hyperpigmentation can appear on any area of the body, but it mostly appears on the stomach and face. Melasma is differentiated from different forms of hyperpigmentation largely by its cause. Melasma isn’t sun-related but is caused in part by hormonal changes within the body. Expecting women are more prone to have this condition. Melasma targets a person’s face, resulting in dark patches of skin on a person’s chin, cheeks, nose, or upper lip.

Melasma can develop on other parts of the body too, primarily those more prone to sun exposure. Melasma may appear during pregnancy, after starting birth control, or because of hormonal treatments and changes. Something to consider if you've seen discoloration appear shortly after switching up your birth control or undergoing a hormonal change.

Light and heat are the other factors that can contribute to the spreading of melasma. It is recommended to use makeup that contains iron oxide to help block visible light. Heat proves more difficult, as it can be generated just by being in hot environments.

Dermatologist-recommended ingredients that work:

Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Kojic Acid, Vitamin C, Turmeric, Licorice and Niacinamide. These Active ingredients can be used in various ways, such as:

Step 1:
Facial treatment – To actively exfoliate and rejuvenate skin by cleansing, dead skin cell removal, stimulating skin with massage, boost skin with serum and top-it off with a moisture-locking peel-off mask.

Step 2:
Detan Serum – After resetting your skin, a serum with Lactic and Glycolic Acid must be used for everyday maintenance, to keep skin in good health. However, unlike regular hyperpigmentation, Melasma needs to be managed in a more serious manner. Dermatologists recommend a longer regime that will control and reduce Melasma.

Step 3:
The Forever Savior: SPF
Sunscreen is a photoprotective topical product that prevents skin damage, by either absorbing or reflecting the sun’s ultraviolet radiation (UV rays). There are two types of ultraviolet radiation that can harm your skin -UVA, and UVB. UVA rays can cause your skin premature aging and UVB rays can burn your skin. SPF is known as the savior. Melasma is triggered by hormones, but that does not mean you should slack off on the SPF. Sunscreen can protect against Melasma and Hyperpigmentation both by limiting the damage from harmful rays.

Vitamin C is also known to enhance photo-resistance and repair the skin from sun damage. It is very rare to find a well-formulated Sunscreen with Vitamin-C. Dr. Chytra V Anand has developed India’s First Vitamin-C Sun Protect Gel that is a lightweight gel-based sunscreen with SPF 40 protection. It is important to apply SPF 40 at least, and re-apply every three hours when you step outside. To find both the goodness of De-tan serum & Sun Protect Gel in one, SkinQ’s Instant Glow Kit is a smart addition to your vanity.