- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Contraception such as the pill
- Certain medications that cause hormonal disorders
- Heredity or genetic baggage
Pregnancy mask or melasma
The definition of melasma
From the Greek word "melas" or "black", melasma or chloasma is more commonly known as pregnancy mask. It is a hyperpigmentation that manifests itself as brown patches on the skin. The coloring of the spots gradually intensifies with exposure to the sun.
Who is affected by melasma?
Melasma mainly affects women from puberty to menopause, particularly pregnant women or those on medication containing hormones, such as contraceptives. All skin types are affected, although darker skins are more prone.
What zones are at risk?
- The face: mainly the forehead (directly exposed to the sun), nose, chin, upper lip and temples.
- Body parts exposed to UV rays: neck, décolleté and forearms.
What causes the pregnancy mask?
The exact origin of pregnancy mask is not yet known. However, it has been scientifically proven that brown spots linked to melasma appear under the effect of a hormonal disorder.
- When the body undergoes major hormonal changes, it produces excess melanin. This happens at puberty, during the menopause or when taking contraceptives such as the pill.
- When the body is intensively exposed to the sun: ultraviolet rays promote melanocyte activity and lead to high melanin production, the source of pigmentation spots.
- With age, brown spots can appear: cell renewal is slower, and melanin accumulates in the cells, resulting in the heterogeneous pigmentation of mature skin.
Melasma aggravating factors
How can I prevent the appearance of a pregnancy mask?
- Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 to 50.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face
- Wear clothing that covers your skin
- Stop waxing or threading your hair
When should melasma be treated?
In most cases, the hyperpigmentation associated with the pregnancy mask disappears in the months following childbirth. However, some brown spots may persist. It is therefore advisable to treat them as soon as possible, especially as pigmentation marks tend to recur. Depigmenting creams are available for this purpose.
For greater effectiveness, undergo a treatment at Maison Lutétia. An appointment with a medical expert will determine the ideal treatment plan for your particular indication.
Peelings
How does it work?
Maison Lutétia offers peelings with AHA (fruit acids) and TCA (trichloroacetic acid) to exfoliate the epidermis, accelerate cell regeneration and deliver a new-skin effect. Over the course of several sessions, spots are lightened and a more even complexion is achieved.
The sessions
At least 4 peels, every 15 days
Laser resurfacing
How does it work?
This non-ablative laser creates micro-wells on the skin's surface, resulting in abrasion. The new-skin effect is visible as the skin heals, thanks to the stimulation of collagen and elastin fibers. Melasma diminishes with each session, giving way to radiant skin.
The sessions
At least 3 sessions, every 4 to 6 weeks.
Radiofrequency microneedling
How does it work?
It's a treatment that creates micro-lesions on the skin's surface to trigger the skin's self-healing process. As the skin repairs itself, it becomes denser, firmer and displays a new, smoother, more radiant texture. Brown spots lighten with each session, giving the face a new radiance.
The sessions
At least 3 sessions, every 4 to 6 weeks
LaseMD Ultra
How does it work?
This laser creates micro-channels on the skin's surface, stimulating the production of collagen and elastin. A serum based on tranexamic acid, a powerful anti-dark spot active ingredient, is then applied and perfectly absorbed by these channels. The skin brightens with each session, giving the face an unparalleled glow.
The session
According to the recommended treatment plan, at least one session every 2 weeks.
Other skin problems we can treat
FAQ
How do I get rid of the pregnancy mask?
To reduce the appearance of a pregnancy mask, protect yourself from the sun and create a treatment plan at Maison Lutétia.
Is the pregnancy mask permanent?
It usually disappears a few months after it appears, but some brown spots may persist.
What precautions should I take if I have a pregnancy mask?
Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and clothing.
When should a melasma treatment be carried out?
Brown spots must be treated as soon as possible to achieve results and avoid recurrence.
Can the mask of pregnancy be treated and permanently eliminated?
Sun spots can be lightened with depigmenting creams and aesthetic medicine treatments at Maison Lutétia.
How do I use a depigmenting cream?
Be careful not to use it if you're exposed to the sun, as the depigmenting cream is photosensitizing. Depending on the cream recommended by your dermatologist, the treatment should be applied once or twice a day for at least three months.