Why does melasma occur in pregnancy?
Melasma is a type of pigmentation that usually appears on the face, especially in the central part. It commonly affects the cheeks, forehead, and nose area. It is a form of hyperpigmentation caused by excess melanin or pigment being deposited in certain layers of the skin.
Melasma is very common during pregnancy, but that does not mean all pregnant women experience it, nor is it exclusive to pregnant women. Melasma can also occur in non-pregnant women or even men. However, it is more common during pregnancy because pregnancy hormones can provoke and exacerbate melasma. Similarly, women on birth control pills may experience melasma due to hormonal influences.
How to take care of your skin during pregnancy?
You may have beautiful skin, but suddenly you notice small dark pigmentation or blotches on your face—hyperpigmentation. These terms don’t sound pleasant, and the reflection in the mirror can affect your confidence. While the excitement of having a baby overshadows this, it can still mentally affect you. Here’s some information about why this happens and what you can do to manage it.
Our skin color is due to melanin pigment produced by melanocytes. During pregnancy, hormonal changes increase melanin production, which is entirely normal. Pigmentation changes are commonly seen on the face, arms, underarms, nipples, around the areola, and along the abdomen in a line called the linea nigra. This pigmentation doesn’t affect the baby; it only impacts your appearance, which you might feel conscious about.
Although you can’t completely prevent it, some measures can help. Avoid sun exposure, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Wear UV-protected sunglasses, a hat, and clothing that blocks blue light. Use pregnancy-safe sunscreen, and if desired, wear makeup.
There are also certain natural remedies, although their effectiveness is debated. A 2012 study suggested that turmeric contains a compound that may reduce melanin synthesis. You can mix turmeric with gram flour (besan) and apply it to your face or body. Aloe vera is another remedy—applying it after sun exposure soothes the skin and may help control pigmentation. Lemon juice can also be applied to the skin and washed off after some time. Green tea, containing the compound E.G.C.G, may also reduce melanin pigmentation.
Don’t worry—after delivery and lactation, you’ll have plenty of time to care for your skin. Consult a dermatologist for professional treatments like laser therapy, topical creams, or skin bleaching. Avoid getting such treatments from beauty parlors.
Diet is equally important. Beauty comes from the inside, so consume plenty of Vitamin C and antioxidants. Remember, melanin is only present in the outer layer of the skin, so pigmentation is superficial. Most pigmentation fades after delivery as hormonal changes subside.
One simple home remedy involves mixing a little curd with a pinch of turmeric powder and some lemon juice. Apply it to your face, leave it for 10–15 minutes, and then wash it off. However, always test any remedy on a small patch of skin to check for allergies, and consult your doctor or dermatologist before trying treatments, even natural ones.
The most important thing during pregnancy is to stay happy and calm. True beauty reflects from within, and the joy of having a baby will ultimately overshadow concerns about pigmentation.