Melasma is a skin condition in which the skin has darkened patches. It can affect any part of the skin but is usually more prevalent on the face and neck. If you have this skin darkening, it may be worsening when out in the sun, or just from being in the heat. Melasma can also be triggered by a few other contributing factors. This skin condition is treatable, but preventing it is the best thing you can do. Read on for some ways you can prevent melasma.

Protect Your Skin When In The Sun

When you're out in the sun, you need to protect your skin. You should be wearing sunscreen when out in the sun that contains an SPF of 50 or more. Be sure to wear it on any part of the body that is in the sun. You should also wear clothing to help cover your skin. Loose-fitting clothing will help prevent you from getting too hot when out in the sun. Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect the delicate skin on your face.

Stay Out Of The Heat

Try to avoid being out in the heat when you can. Avoid going into saunas and even hot tubs where your skin may get too hot. Avoid getting too over-heated when you work out and try to avoid taking hot showers as well. The heat can be a cause of your melasma, so be sure to stay out of the heat as much as you can.

Take Low-Dose Birth Control

A higher dose of hormones from your birth control may be causing your melasma. The excess hormone levels can elevate your levels too much that you end up more prone to getting these dark spots. The increase in hormones can also occur during menopause or during pregnancy. To help prevent melasma, you need to get your hormones under control. During pregnancy, it may not be able to be controlled, which is why you need to follow the other tips to prevent melasma.

If you have had problems with melasma in the past, this skin condition can return. Prevention is key to keeping your skin clear and free of these dark patches. If you do end up with melasma, talk to your dermatologist about what you can do to treat this condition and clear up your skin. Also, talk to your dermatologist about what else you can do to prevent this condition again in the future.

For more information, contact a company like Desert Dermatology & Skin Cancer Specialists.