Hyperpigmentation and Melasma: Facts and Psychological factors

Hyperpigmentation and Melasma: Facts and Psychological factors 

• The most common causes of hyperpigmentation are PIH (Post-inflammatory Hyperpigmentation) and melasma

Did you know this about melasma ?

• 10% of affected individuals are men
• in India affects 25.8% of men

Hyperpigmentation

• Is one of the top 10 diagnosis in the asia. one indian out of 6
• In the 70’s it was labeled as the third most common skin problem

Causes of melasma (chloasma) (pregnancy mask)

• genetic
• sunlight
• pregnancy
• oral contraceptives
• cosmetics
• endocrine abnormalities
• thyroid disorders
• medications (antiepileptics…)

What are the psychological reasons to treat melasma ?

• less embarrassement
• less self consciousness
• diminished feeling of being unattractive
• reduces effort hiding the blemishes
• stops people around focusing on this

Contributors:

Dr Christophe HSU – dermatologist. Geneva, Switzerland

Bibliography: Sarkar. Medical Management of Disorders of Hyperpigmentation. Skin of color.  70th Annual Meeting of the AAD (American Academy of Dermatology) – San Diego, California, United States of America (USA)