Melasma, a pigmented skin condition commonly found on the face, has caused endless annoyance for many beauty lovers. It not only affects the appearance of the face, but also is an external manifestation of physical health. So, what is wrong with the body of people who love melasma? This issue will be explored in depth today!
Causes of melasma
Melasma, medically known as "liver spots" or "pregnancy spots", is mainly caused by excessive deposition of melanin in the skin. They are not only a problem with the surface of the skin, but also reflect certain imbalances within the body at a deeper level.
1. Light is the culprit
First of all, sun exposure is the most common external factor that triggers melasma. Ultraviolet rays penetrate the skin and activate melanocytes, producing excess melanin to protect deep tissues from damage, but also leaving a dark imprint. With long-term exposure to the sun, the skin's self-protection mechanisms overrespond, resulting in pigmentation and the formation of melasma.
2. Endocrine disorders
The endocrine system acts as the body's commander, and its subtle changes can also affect the condition of the skin. In women, hormone levels fluctuate during pregnancy, birth control pills, menopause, etc., especially the increase in estrogen and progesterone, which may promote the activity of melanocytes and exacerbate the formation of melasma. In addition, problems such as thyroid dysfunction and insulin resistance may also interfere with endocrine balance and indirectly promote pigmentation.
3. Genetic factors
Heredity is also a link that cannot be ignored. If there is a history of melasma in the family, then it is likely that the offspring will also be affected by genetics. Certain genetic variants may cause melanocytes to be more sensitive to light or abnormal melanin metabolism, greatly increasing the chance of melasma.
4. Lifestyle habits and stress
The fast-paced pace and high stress of modern life can likewise leave marks on the skin. Long-term mental stress can cause the adrenal glands to release cortisol, which affects hormone balance, which in turn affects the production of melanin. Poor eating habits, lack of sleep, smoking and drinking alcohol not only weaken the skin's ability to repair itself, but also increase the production of free radicals, accelerate skin aging, and make melasma more obvious.
5. Drug side effects
Certain medications, such as certain antibiotics, anti-epileptic drugs, antipsychotic drugs, etc., may contain photosensitizing ingredients, and the skin's sensitivity to ultraviolet rays increases after taking them, which can easily induce melasma. Therefore, special attention should be paid to sun protection when taking this type of medication.
How to deal with melasma
In the face of melasma, in addition to using whitening products and medical aesthetic methods, it is more important to start from the source, adjust lifestyle habits, and treat both internal and external.
1. Sun protection is the first priority
Sunscreen all year round, choose sunscreen with SPF 30 or above, PA+++, reapply every 2 hours, wear hats, sunglasses, and use parasols to reduce direct damage from ultraviolet rays.
2. Eat a balanced diet and supplement antioxidants
Eat foods rich in vitamins C, E, and A, such as citrus, nuts, leafy greens, carrots, as well as antioxidant-rich berries and green tea, to help fight free radicals and slow down melanin production.
3. Regular work and rest to reduce pressure
Ensure adequate sleep, reduce staying up late, and reduce the pressure of life and work through meditation, yoga and other means. Long-term stress can promote hormonal imbalances and exacerbate melasma formation.
4. Exercise appropriately to promote circulation
Regular exercise, such as brisk walking, swimming, and yoga, not only helps regulate hormone levels, but also helps to promote blood circulation, speed up metabolism, eliminate toxins from the body, and reduce pigmentation.
5. Seek medical advice if necessary
If melasma increases suddenly or expands rapidly, you should seek medical attention to check for endocrine disorders or other underlying diseases. Professional dermatologists will provide personalized treatment options such as laser treatments, chemical peels, etc.
Although melasma is small, it is like a mirror, reflecting the subtle changes and living conditions within the body. Take care of yourself, start from understanding these "mottled codes", and take a scientific attitude to let your skin and heart bloom with a healthy glow!