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Chloasma, also known as chloasma gravidarum or simply melasma, corresponds to dark spots that appear on the skin during pregnancy, especially on the forehead, upper lip and nose.
The appearance of chloasma is mainly related to the hormonal changes typical of pregnancy, however its appearance can also be favored by exposure of the skin to the sun without proper protection, for example.
Chloasma gravidarum usually disappears a few months after delivery without any treatment being necessary, however the dermatologist may recommend the use of some creams during and after pregnancy to prevent the onset of chloasma, attenuate or promote disappearance more quickly.
Why appears
Chloasma gravidarum is a typical change in pregnancy and it happens mainly due to hormonal changes that happen during this period, such as the increased concentration of estrogen circulating in the blood.
Estrogen is able to stimulate the stimulating melanocyte hormone, which acts directly on melanin-producing cells, leading to the appearance of spots, including the nigra line, which is a dark line that can appear in the belly of pregnant women. See more about the black line.
These spots are more evident in women who regularly expose themselves to the sun without proper protection, such as caps, hats or visors, sunglasses and sunscreen, mainly because the sun's rays can also stimulate the production of this hormone and, thus, also favor the appearance of chloasma.
Despite being more frequent in pregnant women, chloasma can also appear in women who use contraceptives, since they are subjected to hormonal changes due to the pill, and may also be influenced by genetic and racial characteristics and use of medicines and cosmetics, for example.
How to identify chloasma gravidarum
Chloasma gravidarum appears between the first and second trimester of pregnancy and can be identified as a dark spot with irregular edges and pigmentation that appear most frequently on the forehead, cheek, nose and upper lip.
In some women, the spots tend to become more evident when there is sun exposure, which can also make these spots darker.
What to do
Although chloasma gravidarum naturally disappears a few months after delivery, it is recommended that the woman be accompanied by a dermatologist, as the doctor may indicate ways to reduce the risk of developing chloasma and to lighten the spots. Thus, as chloasma can be influenced by exposure to sunlight, the dermatologist's recommendation is the daily use of sunscreen.
After delivery, if there is no improvement in chloasma, the dermatologist may recommend the use of some creams for whitening or performing aesthetic procedures to help reduce blemishes, and peeling or laser treatment, for example, may be indicated. Check out other ways to eliminate pregnancy stains.
Created by: Tua Saúde Editorial Team
Bibliography>
- PURIM, Kátia Sheylla M .; AVELAR, Maria Fernanda S. Photoprotection, melasma and quality of life in pregnant women. Rev Bras Ginecol Obstet. Vol 34. 5 ed; 228-234, 2012
- URASAKI, Maristela B. M. Physiological changes in the skin perceived by pregnant women assisted in public health services. Acta Paul Enferm. Vol 23. 4th ed; 519-525, 2010
- FERNANDES, Lana B .; MENDONÇA, Carolina R .; AMARAL, Waldemar N. Dermatological changes in pregnancy: literature review. FEMALE. Vol 42. 2nd ed; 2014