Discoloration is unevenly accumulated large amounts of melanin, a pigment produced by skin cells under the influence of ultraviolet rays. Melatonin usually accumulates in the epidermis cells, although there are discolorations in the dermis. How can I prevent this problem from affecting you?
Discoloration appears during pregnancy, usually in the period of greater sun exposure, i.e. from March to April. The stains can be light or dark brown. Their cause is hormonal disorders. Under the influence of an excess of estrogens, some of the melanocytes, i.e. melanin-producing cells, work more intensively. The excess dye usually builds up around the mouth, forehead and temples. The lesions are often placed symmetrically on both sides of the face, hence they are also called a "pregnancy mask" because the woman looks like she has a mask on her face. Sometimes, however, discoloration begins with smaller spots, which then merge into larger ones, and then this symmetry may not be fully noticeable.
Goal: avoid trouble
Discoloration can be prevented, although there is no 100% guarantee that it will be successful. The most important rule: avoid the sun. Try not to go outside between 11 am and 3 pm, when the rays are burning the most. When buying a day face cream, choose one that is not perfumed (as the fragrance ingredients in the creams can cause photosensitizing reactions) and of course also has a filter. The minimum value is SPF 15, but dermatologists recommend SPF 30 in spring and summer.
Worth knowingDiscoloration is not treated during pregnancy. During this period, no whitening creams are recommended, and no strong peels or laser whitening of spots are allowed. Such treatments are not allowed during pregnancy, besides, the skin is sensitive to the sun, so the discoloration will not only return, but may become more visible. After pregnancy and breastfeeding, strong discoloration can be removed in an aesthetic dermatology office, and less visible discolorations can be whitened with creams. Important: the treatment is recommended in autumn, when the sun is not scorching so much.
When the sun is shining strongly, the ideal protection is "on the root", that is, a day cream with a filter plus a sunscreen preparation with an SPF of at least 30 and additionally a foundation, also containing a filter. Lubricate your skin with it even when you go outin the morning to the store for bread. And a must for the office if they are illuminated by fluorescent lamps. In addition to the height of the factor, pay attention to the type of filter. Pregnant women should use preparations with two types of filters: chemical and mineral. The former absorb dangerous light energy and convert it into heat energy that is harmless to the skin, while the latter reflect ultraviolet rays, preventing them from reaching the skin. You can buy a cosmetic containing both types of filters (such a mixture is already contained in most creams of good companies) or protect the skin with two preparations: a cream with a chemical filter and, additionally, a foundation containing a mineral filter. Regardless of the type of filter, remember that it protects the skin for no more than 1.5-2 hours - so if you plan to stay outside for a long time, take a cream with you to re-lubricate your skin. Also wear a hat - it protects you from the sun and is a fashionable accessory for summer outfits.