Are birth control pills the culprit behind melasma?

Despite numerous social media posts questioning whether birth control pills actually cause melasma, it's important to know that birth control pills are a popular method of contraception among women. Besides being easy, they are said to be 99.7% effective when used correctly. Each birth control pill contains two hormones: estrogen and progestin, which inhibit ovulation and make it harder for sperm to move. Many people have heard that some brands of birth control pills can improve skin complexion and reduce acne. However, birth control pills actually have several effects on skin, one of which is causing melasma and freckles. Melasma and freckles can be caused by various factors besides birth control pills, including sun exposure, genetics, hormonal changes, and cosmetics. Melasma and freckles are more common in those with fair skin, appearing as patches ranging from light to dark. Increased exposure to UV radiation can darken melasma and freckles. So, how do birth control pills cause melasma? As mentioned, hormonal changes affect the development of melasma and freckles, and birth control pills are one factor that alters hormone levels in the body. Birth control pills stimulate the production of melanin, leading to levels that can cause melasma. If you are taking birth control pills and are concerned about melasma, it is recommended that you consult a doctor or pharmacist to switch to a birth control pill with lower estrogen levels, as this significantly reduces the chance of developing melasma.

What should I do if I have freckles or melasma?

There are several ways to treat melasma, including: Applying creams or topical medications. This is a basic method commonly used to treat melasma and freckles. However, these creams are only effective when applied early or when the melasma is not yet severe. Injectable melasma treatment involves injecting medication under the skin to reduce the intensity of melanin pigment. However, this method only lightens the melasma; it may not completely eliminate it. Laser treatment for freckles and melasma. At Romrawin Clinic, another very popular method is the SMART FEM program, developed by experienced doctors to gently break the cycle of recurring melasma.

Treatment of melasma using Picosecond technology or the NU PICO program.

Nowadays, cosmetic technology has advanced significantly. At Romrawin Clinic, we offer the Nu Pico program, which uses a method of impacting pigment molecules. These pressures break down the pigment into very small molecules, causing freckles and melasma to break down further. Then, white blood cells eliminate these foreign substances. This method significantly reduces the risk of skin burns, is also quick to treat, and is more effective than other methods.