Birth Control and Melasma

Melasma is the discoloration of facial skin, characterized by irregularly sized dark brown patches on the face. These patches usually form on the lips, forehead, and upper cheeks. Although Melasma doesn’t cause any other symptoms except skin discoloration, it may cause mental distress on the account of cosmetic concerns. Melasma is usually seen among pregnant women, those using hormone replacement therapy, and women taking birth control pills.

Historically, Melasma occurs when pigmentation hormones are stimulated by estrogen and/or progesterone, resulting in dark brownish-colored discoloration on the facial skin. This condition, also called, “mask of pregnancy or chloasma”, is more frequently seen in women with dark complexions, but may also occur in women with a light skin tone.

Melasma is over pigmentation of skin, resulting from hormonal changes and therefore can be caused due to birth control pills. While birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy are the known triggers of melasma, genetics and sun exposure also are other common causes. Freckles are a type of melasma that have a genetic origin and get aggravated with sun exposure. Surgeries and scarring due to acne and burns can also cause over pigmentation. While Melasma is more common among women, men may also develop it.

Melasma caused by birth control pills can sometimes be cured on its own when one stops taking these. However, the results may not be immediate and it can take months for the skin color to normalize. Avoiding birth control pills and other hormonal therapy can help deal with hormones triggered melasma. One may switch over to the other forms of contraception to avoid the potential risk of pigmentation. Always use good quality sunscreen to protect the skin from sun exposure to avoid any further worsening.
A multiple strategy for treating melasma includes working with your doctor to incorporate the use of products that include:

1. Cosmetics to camouflage spots
2. Bleaching creams (made from ingredients such as kojic acid, hydroquinone, etc.) Vitamin C (helps brighten the skin)
3. Retinoids (helps lighten the skin tone)
4. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), laser treatments and chemical peels (inhibit melanin production and exfoliate the skin. A skilled dermatologist or qualified person can recommend the best fit)
5. Sunscreens – choose a UVA and UVB blocking sunscreen.

Learn more about our Phoenix Birth Control Clinical Trial