The Five Most Common Mistakes When Treating Melasma
Here are the dos and don'ts of treating this pigmentation condition.
Do you have melasma? The disease, characterized by brownish patches on the skin, is more common than you might think. Even though melasma is a chronic disease, there are several ways to control the situation.
During the sunniest and hottest season of the year, summer, it's time to double down on skin care. “We know that sun, hot baths, saunas, and even the heat from the dryer can contribute to the evolution of the problem. Now, with the arrival of spring, it is necessary to be more attentive to care,” explains dermatologist Fernanda Porphirio, from Clínica Vanité, in São Paulo.
“Today, treatments are increasingly effective and less invasive and this is a positive point,” he reveals. Still, there are several common mistakes made when treating melasma, which can be remedied with small additional habits in everyday life. Find out what they are and how to adapt your skincare routine to maximize results.
1. Forgetting to Use Sunscreen Daily
Sunscreen is an essential ally in anyone's daily life, but especially for those with melasma. It is the main tool for those who want to fight the problem. According to Porphirio, the ideal option is products with SPF greater than 50. In addition, it is always necessary to reapply, two to three times a day.
"If you are in an environment with increased sun exposure, such as the beach or playing outdoor sports, where you sweat or went into the sea, you have to reapply it more often, every two, three hours at least," he explains.
2. Frequently Exposing Yourself to Heat, Sun, and Light Emitting Sources
Sun; visible light emitting sources such as tablets, computers, or cell phones; and heat itself can worsen or trigger melasma. But, far beyond that, simple heat, like opening an oven, can worsen the appearance of spots.
People who are often exposed should use barrier methods such as a hat, glasses or other clothing as body protection.
3. Experimenting with Homemade Recipes for Treatment
The use of homemade recipes as treatment can aggravate and irritate the skin, stimulating inflammation in the region, which worsens the melasma condition and causes even more spots to appear.
4. Believing That Melasma is Curable
“Let it be clear, melasma cannot be cured. It can be under control, so it is always necessary to be under treatment,” points out Porphirio. Even if the mark is not visible, the person needs to remain vigilant with care so that it does not return, using sunscreen and barrier methods.
5. Not Seeking Professional Help
Only a trained physician will be able to carry out a correct assessment and examination of your condition. There are different types of melasma, such as superficial, deep, and mixed—present in the two layers of the skin, epidermis and dermis. Thus, only a professional will be able to properly assess your condition and indicate the ideal treatment for you.
