Melasma (மங்கு): The most common form of hyperpigmentation in women

Melasma is a common skin problem characterised by brown to gray-brown patches on the face. Most people get it on their cheeks, chin, nose bridge, forehead, and above the upper lip. It is more common in women than men.

Source: https://dermskinhealth.com/conditions/melasma/

ETIOLOGY (நோய் வரும் வழி)

• genetic influences

• ultraviolet (UV) radiation -commonly due to excessive sun exposure

• pregnancy (known as "mask of pregnancy")

• hormonal therapies

• cosmetics

• phototoxic drugs

• antiseizure medications

HOW CAN YOU PREVENT THIS

Young women need to cultivate the habit of applying their sunscreen before prolonged sun exposure. Women of colour are especially prone to developing this and need to take appropriate care.

Choosing your sunscreen:

• SPF 30 is sufficient. But if you want to go for SPF 50 that will be fine too. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor which protects against UVB radiation

• PA factor: Look out for 4 plus signs (++++). This offers protection against UVA radiation.

• If the product mentions the critical wavelength, ensure that it is above 370nm & above for broad spectrum protection.

• Tinted sunscreens are preferable

• It is not necessary to reapply. Applying one time is enough before heading out the door.

Source: https://dermskinhealth.com/what-is-a-natural-sunscreen-a-comprehensive-guide-to-safer-sun-protection/

A Clean diet & intermittent fasting

A well-balanced diet devoid of processed foods will aid in your skin looking youthful and plump. This will keep your hormones in balance and prevent your skin from taking a hit with excessive hormone circulation.

Intermittent fasting has proven time and again its effect on the body's ability to detoxify itself and reduce free-radical damage. Incorporating this habit will also allow women to boost their metabolism and aid their wight loss journey if they are on one.

TREATMENT

In modern medicine dermatologists typically go for a combination of hydroquinone 4%, tretinoin & fluocinolone acetonide and other such drugs or treatments catered to each person's needs.

In Siddha Medicine, we typically treat with some internal medicines that regulate melanin production, focus on lifestyle and dietary habits, and there are thailams (தைலங்கள்) like kumkumadi thailam & manjisthadhi thailam which tackle hyperpigmentation.

For every person the journey to treating melasma will vary incredibly. Hence, seek the guidance of your physician.

Melasma is not just dark patches on your face. It is a sign that your body is trying to tell you something.