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Melasma is a common skin condition in both men and women. It is characterized by large, dark patches of skin over certain parts of the face. This skin discoloration, or hyperpigmentation, is generally seen across the forehead, cheeks and nose.

It can affect anyone, but it is more often seen in people with darker or olive toned skin. Hormonal fluctuations and excessive sun exposure are two of the factors that can cause melasma. In pregnant women the hormonal changes they experience are key causes of hyperpigmentation.

Melasma is not by any means a dangerous condition, however, it can significantly alter your appearance. In fact, in some people it can show up as very noticeable, dark spots. For this reason, melasma treatment is a priority for the people who have developed it.

The most common options include:

*Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are a great option in the treatment of melasma because the intensity of the peel can be controlled to best suit your needs. The specialist will control the depth of the peel by the chemicals he or she uses. If you experience any discomfort, you can treat it with cooling agents or topical anesthetics.

*Laser Treatment

Laser resurfacing is another treatment in which you can apply different depths depending on your skin care needs. This procedure offers the specialist great control over the area that is being treated. In other words, it can treat the affected area without interfering with the surrounding tissue.

While undergoing treatment you will need a local anesthetic. If after having completed treatment you experience some swelling or redness, don't be alarmed, this is normal and should subdue in a couple of days.

*Microdermabrasion

If you want a gentler treatment that requires no downtime, then microdermabrasion is the ideal treatment option for you. It does not require anesthesia, but might require more than one session depending on the extent of the problem.

*Bleaching Creams

Bleaching creams are also used to correct skin tone problems, not just melasma. These products help lighten the skin. They will probably work best over larger areas of the skin as it is difficult to apply them on a tiny spot.

All of the previous procedures and products have one vital goal in common: to get an even skin tone. Nevertheless, the effects are not permanent if you don't take the proper care. Exposing your skin to sun exposure can cause melasma to reappear.

Therefore, avoid going out into the sun without wearing a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Reapply frequently during the day. Also, wear wide brimmed hats to keep the sun from directly hitting your face.