Melasma, a form of hyperpigmentation, occurs when melanin production is excessive, leading to brown patches or spots on the skin. Key causes include direct sun exposure, hormonal changes, prolonged skin inflammation, natural aging, or improper skincare.

Pharmacist Do Xuan Hoa, from the Medical Information Center at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, notes that certain skin areas frequently exposed to sunlight, pollution, wind, and dust are at higher risk of developing dark spots and premature aging.

Cheekbones are directly exposed to sunlight during outdoor activities. Continuous exposure to UV rays prompts melanocytes to increase melanin production as a protective mechanism. Over time, this pigment accumulates, forming visible dark spots and melasma.

A doctor at Tam Anh General Hospital consults a patient. Photo illustration: Hospital provided

The forehead is another area where melasma frequently appears, largely due to extensive exposure to sunlight, heat, oil, and sweat. These factors stimulate melanocytes to produce more melanin, resulting in broad, unevenly colored dark spots.

The nose is almost always directly exposed to sunlight. After prolonged exposure to UV rays and heat, this area may develop small brown spots or light dark patches.

The chin and jawline often develop melasma linked to hormonal factors, making them susceptible to acne and subsequent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Fluctuations in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels during pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause-menopause can stimulate melanocytes and cause melasma. Pigment patches on the chin and jawline typically appear grayish-brown and are often more challenging to treat and restore to natural skin tone compared to melasma in other areas.

The neck is also a skin area frequently exposed to UV rays but is often overlooked during sunscreen application or when wearing protective clothing. Over time, the skin on the neck can develop dark spots, uneven tone, and other signs of skin aging.

The arms are frequently exposed to the sun while driving or engaging in outdoor activities. Hands also come into direct contact with detergents (soap, dishwashing liquid) or industrial chemicals. All these agents make the skin on the arms prone to pigment disorders and the formation of dark areas, which not only affects aesthetics but also increases the risk of skin cancer.

Pharmacist Hoa advises consulting a specialist for persistent dark spots or hyperpigmentation to receive appropriate treatment solutions. Self-treating dark spots with products of unknown origin is not recommended, as it can lead to weakened skin, pigment disorders, persistent recurrence of melasma, and various other complications.

To manage melasma, improve skin darkening, and prevent hyperpigmentation, it is crucial to practice thorough sun protection, get adequate sleep, maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle, limit chemical exposure, and moisturize the skin regularly. Supplementing with natural essences such as L-Glutathione, Pomegranate (red pomegranate extract), Sakura (cherry blossom extract), and P.leucotomos (from fern) may help reduce the effects of UV rays, support melanin control, and lighten dark spots.

Dinh Dieu