Beware of Flek Menggagu on the Face, How to Handle Melasma

Consultation with a dermatologist (ANTARA)

JAKARTA - Many people have experienced a moment when they look in the mirror and see something different on their face in the form of a previously unseen brown spot.

The spot itusamar at first, then slowly getting more visible. Over time, the spot persists and is difficult to disappear even though various skin care products have been tried. At that point, some people start to feel worried, wondering, even losing confidence.

This condition is known as melasma, one of the most common forms of hyperpigmentation that appears on the face and is the most stubborn to overcome.

Medically, melasma occurs when the production of melanin, the skin's coloring pigment, is excessively increased, both in the epidermis and dermis layers.

Reported by ANTARA, it gradually appears in the form of brown to gray patches, usually symmetrical, and often on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, or chin.

The good news is that melasma is not harmful and is not contagious. However, the other news is that melasma is very easy to relapse, so it often becomes a source of long-term anxiety for sufferers.

The skin is as if giving a sign that there is something in the body or environment that triggers an excessive reaction to the pigment.

The triggering factor of melasma is very diverse. Repeated and intense exposure to the sun is one of the triggers.

Hormonal changes, for example in pregnancy or the use of hormonal contraceptives, also play a major role. In addition, a genetic history, trauma to the skin due to irritation or certain procedures, as well as the use of certain medications can increase the risk.

Data also shows that melasma is not evenly distributed around the world. According to the Australian Journal of General Practice, in the Southeast Asian region, the prevalence has even been reported to reach 40 percent.

This figure is much higher than the global average, and is likely influenced by the predominantly Fitzpatrick III-V skin type and constant tropical sun exposure throughout the year.

In other words, this area does have "biological and environmental land" that makes melasma more likely to occur. Not only because of improper skin care, but because of a complex combination of factors.

Expert and dermatologist in Pekanbaru who have experience handling various cases of hyperpigmentation, dr. Tanya Febrina, argues that skin sensitivity to pigmentation is indeed very influenced by hormones and hereditary factors.

According to him, estrogen and progesterone can trigger an increase in pigmentation, so melasma more often appears during pregnancy or hormonal contraceptive use. The risk also increases if there is a history of melasma in the family, especially in the dark brown to dark skin type.

This understanding is important, because it helps a person see that melasma is not just a cosmetic problem, but is directly related to the body's mechanisms.

Hati-hati approach

Clinically, melasma appears as irregular-shaped patches, the size of which can be quite large, and the color varies from light brown to bluish.

Pigment depth determines the color and skin response to therapy. This is the reason why melasma treatment cannot be generalized.

Unlike acne scars or other superficial hyperpigmentation, melasma requires a more careful, measured, and realistic approach.

Consulting a dermatologist is an important step to ensure the type of melasma and the depth of the pigment can be ascertained first.

In dermatological practice, one of the main therapies for melasma is depigmenting topical medications. Materials such as hydroquinone or tretinoin are often used under the supervision of a doctor.

For sensitive skin, doctors can prescribe gentler alternatives, such as azelaic acid, kojic acid, or vitamin C. The goal of therapy is not just to fade spots, but to suppress melanin activity without triggering new irritation.

According to Dr. Tanya, the use of topical medications must be carefully monitored, because over-treatment can actually worsen the condition.

In some patients, topical therapy is combined with clinical measures such as chemical peeling selected according to skin type and pigment depth.

For deeper or stubborn melasma, laser therapy can be an option. This technology works by targeting the pigment without damaging the surrounding tissue.

However, the success of the laser depends heavily on the initial evaluation and post-treatment control. "Everyone's response is different. Some show improvement after a few sessions, but some need a combination of long-term therapy. The most important thing is that the therapy is done gradually and safely," said dr. Tanya. This message is simple but crucial that melasma does not know shortcuts.

The Importance of Sunscreen

Protection against the sun remains the main foundation. Sunscreen is not just a cosmetic companion, but an integral part of therapy.

Without it, the results achieved often fade away. Patterns of life, adherence to therapy, and realistic expectations all play a role in determining success.

What often happens in the community is a trial-and-error approach. Product after product is tried, without a clear diagnosis. Sometimes there is a momentary improvement, then irritation or dark spots appear.

In fact, melasma is a chronic condition that requires a thorough understanding of what type of melasma you have, what are the triggers, which therapy is safe, and how far the results can be achieved. This is where education plays a very important role.

dr. Tanya Febrina who is also an expert in acne treatment, skin lightening, and anti-aging emphasizes the importance of dealing with melasma with a systematic and personal clinical approach.

He also argued that prioritizing the scientific aspect in medical treatment and patient safety is a top priority. Moreover, each skin has unique needs that should not be treated uniformly.

What needs to be realized again is that melasma is a signal from the body. Melasma invites everyone to better understand skin conditions, be more critical of the information circulating, and be wiser in choosing therapy.

Because melasma can indeed affect self-confidence, but with proper treatment and a full acceptance attitude, this condition can be managed well.

Equally important, one's self-worth is never determined by the perfection or imperfection of skin color.

Proper education, competent medical assistance, and empowering attitudes can help anyone live a calmer life even when the stain is still left on the glass.