Melasma is a condition characterized by the appearance of dark spots on the skin, especially on the face, and is usually associated with factors such as sun exposure, hormonal changes, genetic predisposition and excessive heat. According to the Brazilian Society of Dermatology, it is estimated that around 35% of women of childbearing age in Brazil present some degree of manifestation of the disease.

Although it does not pose serious health risks, melasma can directly affect self-esteem and emotional well-being. Although there is no definitive cure, the condition can be controlled with appropriate treatment, helping to soften the spots and prevent the condition from worsening.

However, according to dermatologist Ana Paula Furst, from Lenzaví Clinic, one of the biggest mistakes made by those treating melasma It’s believing in ready-made solutions or miraculous procedures. “The procedure that improved a friend’s melasma could worsen yours. Each skin has a different behavior, a different degree of sensitivity and its own triggers. Therefore, the first step is always to get to know each patient’s skin in depth”, he warns.

Melasma requires individualized treatment

Ana Paula Furst explains that today the treatment of melasma goes far beyond acids, lasers and peelings carried out indiscriminately. “Often, before any procedurewe first need to deflame this skin. And that involves oral antioxidants, a routine of skincare appropriate and in-office procedures with whitening active ingredients chosen in a strategic and individualized way”, he states.

According to the doctor, not all skin tolerates laser, not all skin needs peeling and, in many cases, excessive procedures can worsen the condition. “Melasma is a chronic disease. There is no definitive cure, but it can be controlled. And today we can, indeed, greatly improve the quality of the skin and greatly soften the blemishes when there is correct and continuous treatment”, he highlights.

Care to keep melasma under control

In practice, melasma control depends on daily decisions. According to the doctor, it is these choices that can sustain or compromise the results of the treatment. Below, check out how some precautions can help keep the disease under control:

1. Sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days

Ultraviolet radiation continues to act even without visible sun, and skipping this step on an overcast day is enough of a gap to activate the spots.

2. At the beach or pool, reinforce your protection

Hat, cap and blouse sun protection They are not an exaggeration, they are part of the protocol for those who want to maintain the results of the treatment.

3. Pay attention to what heats your face

Staying near the oven for long periods or resorting to artificial tanning in chambers can activate the production of melanin. For those who want to get a tan, spray tanning (or self-tanning) is the safest alternative.

4. Protecting your face alone is not enough

This is the point that most surprises those who have melasma. If the rest of the body gets too much sun, the entire skin reacts. “This is a point that many people don’t understand: melasma doesn’t work in parts. Sometimes, the patient protects her face, but sunbathes her entire body. The skin reacts as a whole. An excess of sun on the arms, chest or legs can be enough to reactivate the stains on the face”, warns the dermatologist.

Continuous control is the key to maintaining results

Treating melasma requires consistency, patience and adequate medical monitoring. “I always tell my patients: have a dermatologist to call yours. Because melasma is not treated by following internet trends or copying someone else’s protocol. What works for one skin can completely sensitize another”, concludes Ana Paula Furst.

By Julia Oliveira