Melasma, or also known as Chloasma, is a common skin condition that can occur during pregnancy, causing dark brown or grey skin patches on the face and neck. It is particularly more common in women of color, and can be especially distressing for pregnant individuals who already deal with a variety of changes to their body. While melasma on the face is more common, this skin condition can also occur on other parts of the body, including the breasts. In this blog post, we’ll discuss melasma on the breasts during pregnancy, including the causes and treatments. We’ll also look at strategies to reduce the risk of melasma and offer advice on how to manage it. With the right care and attention, pregnant individuals can work with their healthcare provider to reduce the impact of melasma on their breasts, and increase their self-esteem.
Can Melasma During Pregnancy Be Prevented?
Melasma cannot be completely prevented, but there are ways to lessen your risk or hide your melasma from view.
Exposure to UV light only worsens hyperpigmentation by darkening the skin even more. Avoid spending too much time in the sun while you are pregnant. Wear protective clothing and sunscreen as needed.
Melasma can be brought on by heat because it makes the blood vessels in the skin enlarge and send pigment-producing signals.
Products that irritate the skin can make melasma worse. Face washes, lotions, and creams containing fragrances or colors should be substituted. On the label, search for products that say “fragrance-free,” “for sensitive skin,” or “non-comedogenic.”
Choose products made for sensitive skin if you’re concealing your melasma with concealer or foundation. Cosmetics with “non-comedogenic” or “hypoallergenic” labels are less likely to aggravate skin and exacerbate melasma.
While melasma is primarily brought on by pregnancy, eating a balanced diet and getting enough sleep can help prevent unrelated hormonal imbalances or vitamin deficiencies. Eat a variety of whole, healthy foods, drink lots of water, and get enough sleep.
What is Pregnancy-Related Melasma?
The skin condition known as melasma during pregnancy occurs when melanocytes, which are skin cells that produce melanin, produce more pigment than usual. Melasma is only a pigmentary issue and has no impact on the mother’s or child’s health.
Darkening patches of skin on the face, particularly around the forehead, cheekbones, nose, and upper lip, are among the primary symptoms. Exposure to the sun can make melasma worse. Additionally, melasma can make already dark skin even darker. During pregnancy, freckles or scars, as well as the dark skin around the nipples and genitalia, may turn even darker than usual.
It’s critical to understand that if your hyperpigmentation is accompanied by persistent itchiness, irritation, or discomfort that these are not melasma symptoms. See your dermatologist in that instance.
When to Expect Melasma During Pregnancy
Pregnancy-related skin changes can occur as early as the first trimester, but melasma typically appears in the second or third trimester. However, if you experience any new skin changes that are painful, itchy, irritated, or sore during this time, you might want to see your dermatologist or prenatal care provider. These are not symptoms of melasma, and you could be suffering from another skin condition.
FAQ
Can melasma occur on breast?
Is breast discoloration normal during pregnancy?
As a pregnancy progresses, the nipples and skin that surrounds them (areola) become darker in color as a result of hormones that affect skin pigmentation. Veins in the breast may also become more prominent as the blood supply to the breast is increased.
What causes melasma on breast?
This means birth control pills, pregnancy, and hormone therapy can all trigger melasma. Stress and thyroid disease are also thought to be causes of melasma. Additionally, sun exposure can cause melasma because ultraviolet rays affect the cells that control pigment (melanocytes).
Does pregnancy melasma go away?