What common factors frequently trigger melasma, sometimes called the "mask of pregnancy"?
Answer
Hormonal fluctuations
Melasma, frequently recognized by the descriptive nickname, the "mask of pregnancy," is significantly triggered by internal bodily shifts, most notably hormonal fluctuations. Processes that cause changes in hormone levels, such as pregnancy itself or the sustained use of certain medications like birth control pills, can initiate the development of characteristic brownish or grayish patches, primarily affecting the face in susceptible individuals. While sun exposure is a significant exacerbating factor for melasma, the underlying initial trigger is often rooted in these internal endocrine changes rather than solely external environmental factors.
Related Questions
What medical term describes when skin darkens due to an excess of melanin?What condition involves distinct white patches where pigment cells have stopped functioning?According to the ABCDE criteria, what does 'E' represent regarding a skin spot?What is the primary driver of acquired discoloration, stimulating melanocytes via UV radiation?What common factors frequently trigger melasma, sometimes called the "mask of pregnancy"?What is the approximate diameter measurement used in the ABCDE rule that should prompt an examination?What characteristic suggests a discoloration is likely benign and part of a regular skincare routine focus?Which example actively interferes with the skin’s ability to produce pigment, leading to lightening?Why do new or changing pigmented lesions on the palms or soles sometimes warrant prompt evaluation?What is the minimum recommended SPF for daily, broad-spectrum sunscreen application for proactive management?