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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #16079
45 days ago
115

melasma on hand - #16079

Reet

I am really worried because I’ve been noticing this darkening on my hands, like patches and spots that seem to get darker and more noticeable. It first started a few months ago after being out in the sun a lot during the summer. I honestly thought it was just a tan at first, but now I think it might be melasma on my hand? I googled it, and it said that melasma usually affects the face but it can pop up other places too, right? I have no clue how to make it go away or if it’ll just fade on its own. I tried some over-the-counter creams, but nothing seems to work. One of my friends said that hormonal changes might also trigger melasma on hand and that freaks me out because my periods have been super irregular. Should I be checking in with a dermatologist? Or do you think I can sort it out with some lifestyle changes? I just don’t wanna deal with this forever and the thought that it could worsen or spread is kinda driving me crazy. Anyone have tips on dealing with melasma on hand or experiences to share? Would sunscreen even help?

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Doctors’ responses

Melasma does most commonly occur on the face, but it can indeed appear on other body parts like the arms or hands. The appearance of dark patches could be related to sun exposure, hormonal changes, or other factors. Given that this started appearing after long sun exposure and considering your reported irregular periods, it seems possible that both sun exposure and hormonal fluctuation might be contributing factors. While melasma is not harmful, it can be frustrating to deal with, especially when it doesn’t respond to over-the-counter treatments. First, consider implementing daily sunscreen use with SPF 30 or higher on your hands. Reapply every couple of hours when outdoors, as ultraviolet (UV) exposure often exacerbates melasma. Broad-spectrum physical sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are quite effective. As for treatment options, if the discoloration is stubborn, a consultation with a dermatologist might be worthwhile. They can provide physician-prescribed topical treatments, such as hydroquinone, tretinoin, or combined therapy like the ‘triple cream’ (hydroquinone, tretinoin, and a corticosteroid). Additional interventions might include chemical peels, laser therapy, or microneedling. Sometimes hormonal imbalances can drive melasma, especially if linked with certain conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). If periods have been irregular, it might be wise to discuss this alongside melasma with your primary care physician or an endocrinologist to evaluate underlying endocrine issues. Lifestyle modifications like reducing stress, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring enough sleep could also positively impact your hormones. Without medical contraindications, supplements like Vitamin C and E can support skin health. If your current attempts don’t seem to be working or your symptoms worsen, addressing it through a tailored treatment plan developed by a healthcare provider is advisable. This ensures that any underlying conditions are not overlooked and that you receive personalized advice on effectively managing these symptoms.

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