Melasma is a common skin disorder characterized by gray-brown discolored patches of skin on areas of the face exposed to the sun.
It can affect anyone, but it appears most often in women who have darker complexions. It’s been associated with female hormones. It is also a common skin disorder for the following groups:
- women using birth control pills
- pregnant women
- menopausal women using hormone replacement therapy
Melasma’s symmetrical dark patches are brown to gray-brown in color. They can occur on the:
- forehead
- cheeks
- chin
- nose
- upper lip
If your melasma is triggered by pregnancy or birth control pills, it’s possible the discolored patches will fade on their own after the pregnancy or if you stop taking the pills. You might consider treating your condition at home, though. Here are some common home remedies:
Aloe vera
A 2017 study Trusted Source on pregnant women the condition found using a topical, liposome-encapsulated aloe vera preparation significantly improved their melasma.
Polypodium leucotomos
This is a fern native to Central and South America. It’s sold under the brand names Kalawalla and Heliocare. It’s also called calaguala and anapsos. A 2014 review Trusted Source of literature found orally taking Polypodium leucotomos can treat the disease. However, researchers don’t include a recommended dosage.
Tranexamic acid
According to a 2017 literature review Trusted Source, tranexamic acid is another promising oral therapy for the condition. This acid is a synthetic derivative of the amino acid lysine.
Glutathione
This antioxidant comprises three amino acids (cysteine, glutamic acid, and glycine). It’s found in most mammals. The same 2017 review Trusted Source found that, when taken in an oral form, glutathione decreased melanin in people with melasma compared to those who took a placebo. An excess of melanin production can lead to hyperpigmentation.
Also Read: 12 Foods For Naturally Glowing Skin
