Melasma is a complex skin condition. It is characterised by hyperpigmented patches, often occurring on the face. While it can affect anyone, it is particularly common among women, especially during times of hormonal fluctuations like pregnancy or while taking oral contraceptives.
Pigmentation, especially melasma, is multifactorial, with genetic influences, ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, and photosensitive creams being common culprits. However, hormones play a significant role in exacerbating pigmentation concerns.
Hormones affect the melanin deposition on the skin. Various hormones like estrogen, thyroid-stimulating hormone, adrenocorticotrophin, and melanocyte-stimulating hormones influence the activity of the enzyme tyrosinase. This enzyme leads to the production of melanin in the skin. Thus, any hormonal fluctuation in the body leads to more melanin production and more hyperpigmentation on the skin. Mainly, pregnancy causes Melasma. When there are major hormonal changes in the woman’s body.
Estrogen, progesterone, and melanocyte-stimulating hormones (MSH) elevate during pregnancy. Progesterone supplementation in postmenopausal women shows the development of melasma. While estrogen alone does not induce this condition. Patients with thyroid exhibit a fourfold increase in melasma, emphasising the intricate relationship between hormones and skin pigmentation.
Peels and lasers are valuable tools in addressing melasma. Laser and light therapy utilised as the third line of therapy, proves effective in addressing the dermal component of melasma.
The following dietary recommendations are for melasma that dermatologists can consider suggesting to their clients:
- Balanced diet: Eating a mix of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains gives your skin the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.
- Sun protection: Besides eating well, it is essential to protect your skin from the sun. Use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid too much sun exposure because sunlight can make melasma worse.
- Get expert advice: It is also a good idea to recommend talking to a dietitian, who can create a personalised eating plan that suits your specific needs and supports your melasma treatment.
Proper nutrition can have a positive impact on skin pigmentation, especially when dealing with melasma during hormonal changes. By including antioxidant-rich foods, maintaining adequate vitamin D and zinc levels, and staying hydrated, one can help manage melasma and promote healthier skin. Combined with sun protection and guidance from a dietitian, these dietary recommendations can support dermatological treatments and contribute to clearer and more even-toned skin.
As Shriyal Sethumadhavan delves into how a holistic approach can help individuals achieve clearer and more radiant skin; Dr Padmavathi Surapaneni, Dr Shafali Trassi Nerurkar, and Dietician Vidhi Chawla, elaborate on aesthetic treatments for melasma and dietary options. that can be recommended to patients. For the full story, get your copy of this Aesthetic Medicine India edition: https://rebrand.ly/aug-septedition