Melasma
Mask of pregnancy, chloasma, and butterfly mask are other names for melasma. This is a skin discoloration that appears on the face as a brownish stain, often affecting the nose and cheeks.
Hormonal changes such as the use of birth control pill, hormonal replacement,s and pregnancy can contribute to its occurrence. Whatever the cause, it is due to hyperpigmentation or increased melanin production, the pigment coloring agent in skin.. It usually fades after birthing.
Drink lemon in water; eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, especially daily fresh leafy greens. B vitamin PABA can help minimize this. Avoid sun exposure and if you must be sun exposed, use a strong sunblock. Many skin lighteners contain hydroquinine made from crystalline phenols. Hydroquinone disrupts the synthesis of melanin hyperpigmentation and is considered one of the most active and safest skin depiigmenting agents. It can be an unstable ingredient in cosmetics. When exposed to air or light, it can turn brown, so be sure to buy it in packages that do not allow light to shine through. Those in jars also get exposed and ineffective. Some may can experince allergic reactions. Cranberry, blueberry and the herb uva ursi all have leaves that contain arbutin, which is a hydroquinone derivative and can inhibit melanin production. More research is really needed. Other skin lightening ingredients include vitamin A, kojic acid and licorice root. You can also make fresh facial masks from mashed papaya or yoghurt.
Azelaic acid is safer and effective. The most natural alternative is to use a fresh papaya or mask. Use a mineral-containing make up. Take antioxidants orally to have better sun protection.
From my book, Beauty by Nature.
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