What is Melasma? Melasma is a skin condition that causes dark patches on the face of adults. The most common areas affected are the cheeks, bridge of nose, forehead and upper lip. Melasma should not be confused with dark spots (age spots, liver spots, seborrheic keratosis) that appear in elderly skin. Melasma occurs much more often in women than in men and also occurs more often in dark-skinned races particularly Asians, Hispanics and Indians. What Causes Melasma? The cause of Melasma is unknown. People with a family history of Melasma are more likely to develop the skin condition. Any factor affecting the hormonal status may trigger Melasma, such as pregnancy and birth control pills. Sun exposure and inflammation can aggravate Melasma by stimulating the production of pigmentation (Melanin by pigment producing cells Melanocytes). How is Melasma Treated? Melasma occasionally disappears after pregnancy Melasma can be treated with bleaching medications containing hydroquinone sometimes in combination with steroids, glycolic acid and vitamin A. Chemical peels and laser surgery may help Melasma, but results have not been consistent and the side effects can sometimes worsen Melasma. What else can I do? ORIKI Whitening Serum with ORIKI Rejuvenating Cream helps to lighten Melasma. ORIKI Whitening Serum contains an effective blend of botanical Whitening ingredients and antioxidants to diminish the production of pigmentation (Melanin). ORIKI Whitening Serum can be use alone or in combination with all prescribed beaching medications. In addition, ORIKI Sunscreen SPF 30 should be used daily. You should wait 5 minutes in between application of skin cream and medications or makeup. I use a hydroquinone medication for melasma, should I use the ORIKI Rejuvenating Cream also? Yes, ORIKI Rejuvenating Cream will facilitate deeper penetration of the medication and will help to even out the skin tone. I use a hydroquinone medication for melasma, may I use the ORIKI Whitening Serum also ? Yes if your pigmentation is improving. There is no medication in the Whitening Serum, so there will be no drug interaction. However it is a good idea to wait at least 15 minutes after applying the hydroquinone medication before you apply any skin care product, including the Whitening Serum. If you have any questions, e-mail us at skinspecialist@ORIKI.com. To send this page to a friend, click here.