Hi,
Pregnancy brings a lot of changes to a women’s health, skin, hair and life. ‘The Mask of Pregnancy’ or ‘Pregnancy Mask’ is one of the changes experienced by many women during their pregnancy. It affects 50-75 % of expectant mothers. ‘Pregnancy Mask’ will emerge early on in pregnancy and fade after delivery.
The ‘Pregnancy Mask’ is a skin condition called ‘Melasma’ or ‘Chloasma’ that causes patches of discolouration on the skin. The brownish coloured patches appear on the forehead, bridge of the nose, cheeks, upper lip and chin. These patches tend to be large and symmetrical (either side of the face will be affected). It typically affects the face. However, it can affect other areas of the body that are exposed to the sun. Melasma can affect both men and women, but is most common in women.
Causes of ‘Pregnancy Mask’ or ‘Melasma’ -
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The hormonal changes during pregnancy cause ‘Pregnancy Mask’. Spike in the pregnancy hormones stimulates the production of melanin in the skin that results in freckles and moles to become more pronounced and new dark spots and patches to emerge. Melasma tends to run in families and people with darker skin types are more prone to developing symptoms due to having more naturally active melanocytes(cells that control pigment).
Melasma can be triggered because of contraceptive pills, pregnancy and hormone therapy. Stress and thyroid diseases can also cause Melasma. Exposure to the sun can cause melasma because ultraviolet rays affect the melanocytes(cells that control pigment).
Treatment of ‘Pregnancy Mask’ or ‘Melasma’ -
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1. Melasma triggered due to pregnancy or contraceptive pills usually disappears on its own.
2. Prescribed creams and topical steroids help lighten the affected areas.
3. Chemical peels, dermabrasion and microdermabrasion strip away the top layers of skin and lighten dark patches.
4. Limiting sun exposure, using sunscreens, hats helps to reduce the chances of Melasma occurring or returning.
5. Eating foods rich in folic acid like green leafy vegetables, oranges, whole wheat bread and whole-grain cereals help to minimise Melasma, as folate deficiency can cause hyperpigmentation.
However, treatment of Melasma during pregnancy and breastfeeding period is limited because of their possible risks to the developing fetus and newborn.
Natural options like azelaic acid, liquorice extract, topical vitamin C and natural face masks & home remedies can help to minimize the intensity and severity of Melasma by inhibiting pigment production.
Caution -
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1. Hydroquinone, retinoids and steroids should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding period.
2. Consult with the doctor before following any treatment for Melasma.
You can buy solutions for Melasma during pregnancy and breastfeeding period from :
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Please Note : This post contains product links from www.amazon.in
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