Battling Melasma

Is It OK for Women to Shave Their Face?

2011-09-21T06:42:00.000-07:00

I have been debating this for awhile now...I have very light peach fuzz above my lip where the melasma is...I heard waxing and depilatories can make melasma worse so I avoided those types of hair removal...problem is, my makeup gets cakey where the hair is and makes it look more noticeable.

So...I took a leap of faith and shaved...my makeup sits better now and the skin is smooth. I am paranoid about the hair growing back darker, thicker, but upon researching this online I found that is just a myth. The only problem I have found that may occur is stubble, which can be prevented by shaving daily which is what I plan to do. I found the following article very helpful in making my decision:

http://www.beauty-and-the-blog.com/skin-care-and-anti-aging-information/anti-aging-skin-care-shaving-face-is-saving-face/

My quest to remove and conceal my melasma continues...it is so stubborn! I will update if I find any products that seem to actually fade it, so far nothing has done very well and I cannot afford a dermatologist...

How Do You Cover Your Melasma and Brown Spots?

2011-09-11T17:56:00.000-07:00

I started this blog not only to try and educate others dealing with melasma, but to learn as well. I would love to hear how others conceal their melasma and/or brown spots.

My trouble spot is above my lip, from a distance it looks like a moustache but it is actually a splotch of brown pigmentation, on both sides of the little indentation above my lip. I also have two brown spots on my cheek.

Currently I am using a vitamin C serum and sunscreen during the day, and Olay Definity sleep cream at night. I want to try a fade cream like Porcelana or Ambi in the near future. I have read it is imperative to wear sunscreen, even when it isn't sunny outside.

To cover my melasma, I currently use Maybelline Cover Stick concealer, with Dream Matte Mousse foundation dabbed on top and a dusting of Cornsilk powder. It helps a little, but I can still see it. And, the makeup makes the fine blonde hairs above my lip more noticeable.

I've read waxing and depilatories make melasma worse, and that some women have good results shaving, but the idea scares me so I'm hoping to get more feedback, does anyone shave their peach fuzz?

Of course when I ask friends and family "Can you see it?" they act like I'm crazy and there's nothing there. But, my 8 year old said he could see it, and I believe him. I do notice that when I do full makeup and play up my eyes and cheekbones with only a light gloss on the lips, the focus is removed a bit from the melasma.

Now I want to hear your tips :)

Blue Lizard Sunscreen for Melasma Protection: No Chemicals or Fragrances Included

2011-01-20T10:41:00.000-08:00

It was brought to my attention by a reader that there is a possibility some of the sunblocks on the market may make melasma worse rather than better. This reader suggested Blue Lizard sunscreen, and after researching it myself I second the recommendation.

This sunscreen offers Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB protection and comes in formulas for the face, as shown below, as well as other formulas including those for sensitive skin. The best thing is that this product is chemical and fragrance free...and is advertised as being dermatologist recommended. Definitely worth a try in my opinion:

Hot New Melasma Treatment: Clinique Even Better Dark Spot Corrector

2010-12-28T10:53:00.000-08:00

Clinique is one of the leading skin care and cosmetic companies in the world, and they now have an incredible melasma treatment. In clinical studies, women reported a 53 percent increase in dark spot reduction and even skin tone.

A top seller, Clinique Even Better Dark Spot corrector is designed to treat melasma, acne scars, sunspots and more. It only takes four weeks to see full results and can be used with any other skin care products, as well as under your makeup.

The Best Way to Prevent Melasma All Year Round

2010-12-28T10:43:00.000-08:00

This winter I was discouraged to learn that just because my tan faded, my melasma did not. Upon researching further, I found that it is imperative to wear sunscreen even in the winter months. Even though it's not hot outside, the sun is still shining and you are still getting UVA and UVB rays which can damage skin and make melasma darker and more prevalent.

I have naturally oily skin, so I was wary about wearing sunscreen every day. However, I found the perfect one for me, it is oil-free, SPF 100, protects against UVA and UVB rays AND goes on great underneath my makeup. It can be used on its own or following any skin care treatment program you may be using:

Neutrogena Spectrum+ Face Advanced Sunblock Lotion, SPF 100

Neutrogena is a time trusted brand of skin care products and cosmetics that is recommended by many dermatologists, according to their advertisements.

Product Spotlight: Jane Iredale Enlighten Concealer for Melasma

2010-09-28T09:00:00.000-07:00

Jane Iredale Enlighten Concealer is made just for melasma but can also work for dark circles. The apricot tone works under your regular concealer and foundation to neutralize brown and even dark purple or blue spots. But that's not all...

This concealer contains Arbutin, Licorice, and Vitamin K all of which are natural skin lighteners with no known side effects...so this concealer is designed to treat while it conceals. A bit pricey at $28 but something I definitely want to try when it is in my budget!

New Melasma Treatment: Avon Clinical Luminosity Pro Brightening Serum

2010-05-12T07:10:00.000-07:00

Avon Clinical Luminosity Pro Brightening Serum is a new product with top reviews. According to clinical studies, 80% of women saw the look of dark spots dramatically diminish. Over time, 100% of women showed more illuminated skin with visible reduction in fine wrinkles. And, it is supposed to brighten skin instantly, the first time you use it.

I think this would be an excellent serum for melasma, and I am going to try it. You can purchase it HERE the product number is 437-526. With your purchase, you get free shipping and free Anew Clinical Eye Life. Not sure how long the free product and free shipping deal is going to last.

If anyone owns this or has tried it already, comment or email me and let us know how it works :)

It's Melasma Season Again...

2010-04-08T05:55:00.000-07:00

It's melasma season again, at least for me. Went out with SPF 15 on, got a little sun, now I can see the melasma moustache. No one else notices, I have asked. But I notice...dark discoloration above my lip. There is also a spot on my cheek, the center is faded away and the outside is dark, which means the stuff I'm using might be working

(I am using Olay Definity night cream, Olay age reversal foam AM and PM, Olay Regenerist lotion SPF 15, L'Oreal Collagen Boost and during the day Clean and Clear Oil Free Moisturized with Salicylic Acid under the Olay to keep my skin matte as it is oily by nature)

I hope with vigilant skin care and the right makeup (think attention to the eyes rather than the lips, bronzer and blush) I can distract from the melasma.

For those of you who want to know if sunless tanning, spray tanning or the like will cover melasma, the answer is no, it will make it darker. If you apply a tiny dab of DHA inhibitor with a cotton swab to ONLY your melasma areas (and hands and feet) before spray tanning or self tanning you can perhaps make the surrounding skin darker, which could help it blend in with the melasma spots while you work on fading them.

That's my plan for the summer, anyhow :)

Concealing Melasma in the Winter Months

2010-02-18T07:35:00.000-08:00

The other day, my husband pointed to a melasma spot on my cheek and said, "you have a brown spot on your face." I was amazed that, after 12 years of marriage, he was just noticing it.

I explained to him that it was melasma, likely caused by pregnancy, hormones and sun exposure. He was like, oh, ok. But it did make me realize that with pale skin the dark spots are more visible.

Light pink concealer, topped with your normal concealer shade, can work to conceal brown melasma spots. Consider using a bronzer around (not on) the areas where you have melasma. This can be tricky but can help darken the skin a bit so it will blend with the melasma. If tanning or sunless tanning, always protect melasma spots with sunscreen or a DHA inhibitor (depending on which tanning method you are using)

I have found for melasma spots on the forehead and cheeks, using bronzer to blend my skin color in with the melasma after it has been concealed and topping with a pink blush (on apples of cheeks) you can't even notice it.

This works better when I do a smoky eye and nude glossy lip, when you're all done up it is very hard to pick out well-concealed melasma spots the rest of your makeup is distracting from. Choose either your eyes or lips to really play up and no one will even notice your melasma!

A Profile of Burt's Bees Vanishing Creme

2009-11-03T07:33:00.000-08:00

Burt's Bees Healthy Treatment Marshmallow Vanishing Creme

Today I would like to focus on Burt's Bees Healthy Treatment Marshmallow Vanishing Creme. I love Burt's Bees and have never been unhappy with their products. As soon as I finish up my Definity night cream I might buy this. It sounds yummy and marshmallow is the featured ingredient for its ability to tone and nourish skin. If you buy at Drugstore.com you can get free shipping as shown below:

I think my retinol breakout is clearing up...

2009-10-27T11:50:00.000-07:00

My acne is getting smaller and less noticeable...been using Dr. Jeannette Graf Retinol Rejuvenation Serum for a few weeks. I am hoping the "retinol healing crisis" is over and I start seeing the younger, clear, glowing skin I've heard so much about in relation to retinol products.

If anyone is using any kind of retinol product for their skin, whether for melasma, aging or acne feel free to post your experiences in our comments section :)

Does Retinol Break You Out? Me Too!

2009-10-15T09:09:00.000-07:00

The question of the day is, does retinol break you out?

Most often the answer will be yes, it definitely is in my case. I am noticing more acne since I've started the Jeanette Graf retinol serum.

However, I read this is normal. Apparently, retinol purges the skin which brings up breakouts that were underneath waiting to erupt. Also the skin needs time to adjust to the product.

Retinol is used for acne, wrinkles and yes, melasma. The most popular prescription treatment is Retin-A, however there are some pretty strong retinol treatments available over the counter as well.

Please share your retinol experiences if you have them. I am hoping this serum will help my skin clear up, reduce the look of wrinkles and fade my melasma spots.

Olay Definity Night Anti-Spot Treatment for Fading Melasma Spots

2009-09-06T04:53:00.000-07:00

I must try this...the price on Amazon is insanely low. Way lower than my local drugstores and even Wal-Mart. I've been wanting to try an Olay Definity spot treatment for the melasma spot on my right cheek. I have the night cream, but keep forgetting to put it on out of sheer laziness.

If you've tried the product below or if you do, let me know how it works. And also you can click on the image to buy from Amazon. If I do end up trying this I'll post back with results:

How to Get Rid of Sunspots on Skin

2009-08-30T11:41:00.000-07:00

Melasma is also commonly referred to as sunspots. When it comes to how to get rid of sunspots on skin, prevention is the first step. Invest in a really good sunscreen, made for your skin type. Some people with oily skin shy away from sunscreen because they say it "breaks them out" but these days companies like Aveeno and Neutrogena have incredible oil-free sunscreens for face and body.

A dermatologist can remove your sunspots on face, chest and other areas with a laser or high powered light, or apply a chemical peel. They might also recommend a prescription lightening cream. If your melasma is not serious enough to go to a dermatologist but you want to lighten those pesky dark spots try a product like Olay Definity.

At Olay you can read more about this collection, the price is about average for drugstore skin care and this line is supposed to clear up discoloration. I am going to try it, I have been using the Definity night cream but I always forget, so I don't expect results. I need to be more consistent with my skin care and I think I can fade these spots!

Photo: Not Me.
Source: Photobucket

Home Remedies for Melasma

2009-08-25T08:18:00.000-07:00

In Victorian times, women shielded their skin from the sun with parasols and bonnets. These women probably had less melasma to deal with than we do today, because sun exposure plays a huge role.

Here are some easy home remedies these ladies might have used to fade facial discolorations:

Lemon Juice: Lemons are excellent for oily skin. And, their astringent properties help tighten pores while refreshing skin. Because lemons are acidic, they also serve as a natural exfoliant which can help make dark spots lighter.

Apple Cider Vinegar: What isn't ACV good for? This remedy is touted for all kinds of different issues. You can try a toner made with ACV and water, or apply straight apple cider vinegar to the melasma. Like lemon juice, apple cider vinegar helps expedite skin cell turnover and fade spots.

Can Spray Tan or Sunless Tanner Cause Melasma?

2009-07-04T05:08:00.000-07:00

I was recently asked if spray tan such as Mystic Tan or even sunless tanners you use at home cause melasma.

I learned the answer to this the hard way, as I am all about the sunless tan. (Always wear high SPF sunscreen the higher the better)

While spray tans and self tanning products won't cause melasma, they will cause your existing melasma to appear darker. You may have melasma that you don't even notice until after putting on sunless tanner.

There is a solution that can really help. There are lotions and creams commonly found at tanning salons that block the active ingredient DHA. You should probably be using this on your hands, knees, elbows and parts of your feet already. Very, very carefully apply this DHA blocker to the areas of your face with melasma.

If done right, the tanner won't adhere to the melasma areas and the rest of your face will be beautifully bronzed.

If you do your own self tanner at home you can buy the DHA blocker from the Internet or salon. Of course you could always avoid the area but that would be challenging.

Stay tuned, I might start a blog on sunless tanning now that my interest with it is piqued...

What are the Brown Spots on My Face and How Did They Get There?

2009-06-09T11:08:00.001-07:00

If you are female and plagued by brown spots on various areas of the face, it might be melasma. Often called the "mask of pregnancy" melasma is extra pigmentation on certain areas that is especially prevalent following sun exposure.

While there is no real cure for melasma, and it may reoccur after pregnancy and the post partum period, there are lots of topical treatments on the market to help fade your brown spots. There are also treatments like laser removal that can be done by your dermatologist.

However, to keep the melasma from coming back you should choose a skin care routine that matches your skin type and always wear sunscreen, as high SPF as you can find, even on overcast days. Sun exposure is a top cause of brown spot occurrence, especially on the face in women.

About My Melasma

2009-05-27T08:37:00.000-07:00

Here is a photo in which you can see the melasma spots I'm dealing with. Right now I wear sunscreen on most days and when I remember, apply Olay Definity night cream. I'm really looking for a faster, easier solution and may consider laser removal. Feel free to comment with your photo links if you have melasma photos to share with the group. Thanks!

What is Melasma?

2009-05-26T08:26:00.001-07:00

Melasma is a skin condition where parts of the face become more pigmented. There are various causes of melasma, experts seem to agree that melasma can be caused by:

Pregnancy (melasma can re-occur long after childbirth)
Hormonal Issue
Sun Exposure

Depending on the natural color of your skin, your melasma may be mild, moderate or severe. The brown spots range in color from light brown to burnt umber, as seen in the dermatologist photo above. (That is not me, I am planning to upload a photo of my facial melasma soon.)

I am frustrated because I love makeup, and having a big brown spot on my cheek ruins it. And, when I get a little sun or even a sunless tan I develop that mustache-looking melasma that I absolutely despise.

I am Caucasian, somewhat pale, with yellow-undertoned skin, I tan fairly easily, whereas my poor husband has ruddy skin and just turns pink. I plead with him to use sunscreen...he rarely does :(

I invite women of all skin tones and types to visit my blog, chat about melasma in the comments area, etc. The issue of melasma is one that affects women all over the world (and some men.)

So join me as I search for ways to get rid of melasma :) I think just getting rid of those few brown cheek blotches and mustache melasma will make me look more youthful.