Key Highlights
- Bahrain’s intense sunlight, UV exposure, and heat can contribute to melasma and pigmentation.
- Hormonal changes, genetics, and skin irritation can also trigger melasma.
- Treatment options may include sun protection, topical medications, chemical peels, microneedling, and laser therapy.
- A dermatologist can assess your pigmentation and identify factors that may be contributing to melasma.
- Early dermatological care can help manage pigmentation and reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Stanford Medical Center offers dermatology care and treatment options based on individual skin concerns.
The intense sunlight, high UV radiation, and exposure to summer heat can cause several skin-related issues, including melasma. Knowing what causes melasma and the available treatment options can help you manage the condition and maintain healthier-looking skin.
What is Melasma?
Melasma is a pigmentation disorder characterized by flat, brown or greyish patches that commonly appear on areas of the skin exposed to sunlight. It is particularly common on the forehead, cheeks, nose, and upper lip area, which are most exposed to harmful UV rays.
Causes of Melasma in Bahrain
Melasma can develop due to several contributing factors. Identifying the causes and triggers of the condition can help you manage symptoms effectively and lower the risk of recurrence. Our skin specialists at Stanford Medical Center can assess your skin, identify possible triggers, and recommend a treatment plan based on your specific needs.
Exposure to Harmful UV Rays and Heat
Intense sunlight, UV radiation, and Bahrain’s high heat can stimulate pigment-producing cells, creating more melanin and causing dark patches on the skin.
Hormonal changes in the body
Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels in the body can trigger increased melanin production in the skin, resulting in dark facial patches. Pregnancy and certain hormonal contraceptives can lead to hormonal fluctuations that can cause melasma.
Family History or Genetics
A family history of melasma increases susceptibility to the condition.
Skin Cosmetics and Harsh Chemicals
Certain cosmetics and harsh chemicals on the skin can cause allergic reactions or skin irritations that trigger pigment-producing cells to overproduce melanin, causing dark patches on the face.
Melasma Treatment at Stanford Medical Center Bahrain
Treatment is tailored to the severity of the condition and the patient’s overall health, with suitable options recommended based on individual needs.
Sun Protection
To help manage melasma, your doctor may recommend a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays and prevent dark patches from worsening.
Topical Medications
Doctors may prescribe topical lotions and creams containing hydroquinone, retinoids, and corticosteroids to lighten melasma patches on facial skin.
Q-Switched Laser Therapy
For severe melasma, your dermatologist may also suggest an in-clinic procedure such as Q-switched laser therapy. Here, focused beams of high energy target pigment cells, breaking down concentrated melanin produced by the overactive cells.
Skin Exfoliation or Chemical Peels
Depending on the diagnosis, chemical peels can effectively exfoliate the superficial skin, revealing a brighter and smoother underlying skin.
Microneedling
Another in-clinic procedure used to minimize the effects of melasma is microneedling, which uses fine needles to create planned skin injuries, thereby stimulating the body’s response to repair. Through microneedling, the body produces more collagen, thereby improving skin tone and reducing melasma.
Glutathione IV Drip
Glutathione IV drip is an intravenous procedure for skin brightening and to manage pigmentation issues like melasma.
When to See a Dermatologist for Melasma in Bahrain
You can consider seeing a dermatologist at our clinic if dark patches are:
- Becoming more noticeable.
- Spreading
- Returning frequently or
- Not showing signs of improvement with your existing skincare routine.
Our experienced dermatologists can assess the pigmentation, identify possible triggers, and recommend suitable treatment options for your melasma condition.
Why Choose Stanford Medical Center for Melasma Treatment in Bahrain?
Our dermatologists have experience in assessing and treating different pigmentation issues, including melasma. We provide personalized treatment based on skin type, focusing on long-term management and better patient outcomes. Concerned about persistent dark patches? Consult the dermatology team at Stanford Medical Center Bahrain for a professional skin assessment and a treatment plan suited to your skin.
Book a Dermatology Consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes melasma?
Common triggers of melasma include UV exposure, hormonal changes, genetics, and skin irritation.
How is melasma treated?
Treatment for melasma may include sunscreen, topical medications, chemical peels, microneedling, and laser therapy, depending on the condition.
Can melasma come back after treatment?
Yes. Melasma can recur, particularly with continued sun exposure or other triggers, so long-term skin protection and management are important.