Contents
Description
Melasma is a common skin condition that causes dark patches on the face, typically on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip. The condition is more common in women than men, and often occurs during pregnancy or while taking birth control pills. Melasma is caused by an increase in melanin production, which can be triggered by sun exposure, hormonal changes, and certain medications.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Melasma |
Appearance
Melasma appears as dark, irregularly shaped patches on the face, usually on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip. The patches can be brown, gray, or black in color and may be symmetrical on both sides of the face. The condition is often exacerbated by sun exposure, and the patches may become darker during the summer months.
Care Guide
To prevent melasma from worsening, it is important to protect the skin from sun exposure. This can be done by wearing a hat, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and avoiding peak sun hours. In addition, it is important to avoid hormonal triggers, such as birth control pills, and to treat any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the condition.
Water
Melasma does not require any special watering requirements, as it is a skin condition and not a plant.
Fertilization
Melasma does not require any fertilization, as it is a skin condition and not a plant.
Soil
Melasma does not require any specific soil requirements, as it is a skin condition and not a plant.
Sunlight
Sun exposure is a major trigger for melasma, so it is important to protect the skin from the sun by wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen.
Hardiness Zones
Melasma is not affected by hardiness zones, as it is a skin condition and not a plant.
Common Pests & Diseases
Melasma is not caused by pests or diseases, but it can be exacerbated by sun exposure and hormonal changes.
Habitat
Melasma can occur in anyone, regardless of their habitat or location. However, sun exposure is a major trigger, so the condition may be more common in areas with high levels of sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: What causes melasma?
A: Melasma is caused by an increase in melanin production, which can be triggered by sun exposure, hormonal changes, and certain medications.
Q: Is melasma permanent?
A: Melasma can be a chronic condition, but it can be treated with a variety of topical creams and procedures.
Q: Can melasma be prevented?
A: Melasma can be prevented by protecting the skin from sun exposure and avoiding hormonal triggers.
Q: Is melasma contagious?
A: No, melasma is not contagious.
Related Plants
There are no plants related to melasma, as it is a skin condition and not a plant.
References
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. (n.d.). Melasma: Overview. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/color-problems/melasma
- Mayo Clinic. (2021, May 4). Melasma. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/melasma/symptoms-causes/syc-20375044
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. (2017, May). Melasma. Retrieved from https://www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/melasma
