How to remove melasma from the face
Feb 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, melasma on the face may be caused by factors such as sun exposure, genetic predisposition, endocrine disorders, drug reactions, abnormal liver function, and others. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and then proceed with recovery through general treatment, medication, or surgical treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. When treating facial melasma, the appropriate treatment method should be selected based on individual circumstances.
In general, melasma on the face may be caused by sun exposure, genetic factors, endocrine disorders, drug reactions, abnormal liver function, and other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical advice, identify the cause, and then proceed with recovery through general treatment, medication, or surgical treatment under the guidance of a professional physician. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Sun Exposure
Ultraviolet radiation can activate melanocytes in the skin, causing them to produce large amounts of melanin granules. These granules accumulate on the skin surface, forming melasma. It may also cause dry, rough skin and accelerate skin aging. It is recommended to use sunscreen daily and wear hats and sunglasses to reduce direct sunlight exposure.
2. Genetic Factors
Genetic factors affect an individual's sensitivity to UV radiation and the activity of melanocytes, making some people more prone to developing melasma after UV exposure. For melasma caused by genetic factors, in addition to daily sun protection, medical aesthetic procedures such as laser whitening and chemical peels (e.g., fruit acid peels) can be used to fade the pigmentation.
3. Endocrine Disorders
Conditions such as pregnancy, menstrual irregularities, or taking contraceptive pills may lead to changes in estrogen levels, resulting in endocrine disorders. Estrogen increases melanin production by removing the inhibition of tyrosinase, thus causing melasma. It is recommended to adjust hormone levels under a doctor's guidance, using medications such as estradiol valerate tablets, conjugated estrogen cream, or diethylstilbestrol tablets.
4. Drug Reactions
Some medication ingredients may interfere with hormonal balance or directly stimulate melanocytes, leading to pigmentation and the formation of melasma. This may be accompanied by gastrointestinal discomfort, dizziness, and other symptoms. It is recommended to discontinue or switch the causative medication under a doctor's supervision.
5. Abnormal Liver Function
When liver function is impaired, the body's ability to clear toxins decreases, leading to hormonal metabolic disorders that may affect normal regulation of melanin, potentially forming melasma. Symptoms may include fatigue, loss of appetite, jaundice, and others. It is recommended to improve lifestyle habits, avoid alcohol consumption, and avoid excessive medication. If necessary, pharmacological treatment may be required, such as hepatoprotective drugs like diammonium glycyrrhizinate enteric-coated capsules, silymarin capsules, or Hepatitis B Support capsules.
When treating facial melasma, appropriate treatment methods should be selected based on individual conditions. At the same time, maintaining good lifestyle habits and a positive mindset is also important.
