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People can use hydroquinone alone or in combination with other topical therapies. Previously it had been available over the counter but the status was changed in 2021 following a ruling by the FDA.Īlthough hydroquinone can help improve the appearance of melasma patches, it can cause side effects. Hydroquinone is only available as a prescription through your doctor.
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Hydroquinone is a topical medication that lightens the skin.
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Topical creams and gels are the first-line treatment options for melasma. Treatment options for melasma include: Creams Learn more about sunburn on dark skin here. Since sun exposure can contribute to melasma, people must wear sunscreen to protect their skin and prevent melasma flares. Treatment might not completely clear melasma patches, and melasma can return even after successful treatment. While various topical agents and cosmetic procedures can help fade melasma patches, not all treatments work for everyone. However, some people may seek treatment for aesthetic reasons. Melasma does not typically require treatment. Learn more about menopause in our dedicated hub here. Treating an underlying hormonal imbalance may help improve melasma symptoms. This can happen after pregnancy ends or once a person stops taking hormonal birth control.Ĭertain medical conditions can cause hormonal imbalances. Melasma due to hormonal changes will fade once hormone levels return to normal. Learn about other skin conditions that occur during pregnancy here. hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy or while taking hormonal birth control.
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skincare products that contain irritating ingredients.According to the American Academy of Dermatology (ADD), only 10% of people with melasma are male. Melasma occurs more often on female skin than on males. However, some forms of melasma do not appear until a person reaches their 40s. This condition usually develops in adults in their 20s or 30s. This means that they are more likely to develop melasma than people with lighter complexions. People with black or brown skin have more melanocytes. Melasma occurs when melanocytes produce too much pigmentation in the skin, resulting in dark patches.
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