However, no research has directly linked aloe vera to reduced areas of hyperpigmentation, so scientists do not yet know the effectiveness of this technique. In many cases, once the offending drug has been stopped, fading of the lesions occurs. Abnormal vaginal bleeding. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Hyperpigmentation is a common skin condition affecting people of all skin types. Acanthosis nigricans is a skin condition characterised by a velvety papillomatous overgrowth of the epidermis. Long-acting reversible contraception: Intrauterine device and implant. Subscribe to Drugs.com newsletters for the latest medication news, new drug approvals, alerts and updates. For example, if the IUD perforates, or pierces, the uterus, the person usually needs surgery to retrieve the device. Here's everything you need to know about this long-term birth control method. While we do connect people with vetted, board-certified doctors, we dont provide medical consultations, diagnosis, or advice. Pigmented streaks from bleomycin Others affect your entire body. Some common types of skin pigmentation disorders include albinism, melasma, vitiligo, and pigment changes from skin damage. doi:10.1126/science.aan8433. If PID occurs because of Mirena, it typically develops within the first 20 days of insertion. 2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK. In this article, find out about different causes of hyperpigmentation and the treatments available. The mainstay of treatment is strict UV protection- hats, sunglasses and SPF every 4 hours. Can the right diet get rid of acne? Drugs.com provides accurate and independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products. Here, we reported one case of acute urticaria following Mirena implantation to increase the awareness of possible adverse side effects associated with Mirena. We link primary sources including studies, scientific references, and statistics within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. Burns, bruises, acne, rashes, or other trauma to the skin can cause it to produce more melanin and lead to dark spots. Various topical creams can help. After that, many forms of hyperpigmentation can be treated with therapies such as: If pregnancy has caused darker skin spots to appear, talk to your healthcare provider about how to manage them. While any birth control brand that contains estrogen or progesterone can put you at risk for developing melasma, those with lower doses of hormones are found to be less likely to cause it. Science. In this blog post well research whether or not the IUD is responsible for causing melasma in some women. In fact, acne is a known side effect of IUDs like Mirena, Liletta, and Skyla. Its important to check in with your healthcare provider to diagnose and treat any potential underlying causes of hyperpigmentation. Areas of skin can darken after people have had inflammation of the skin. Although there are stories of IUDs clearing skin, there are also a number of anecdotes of the devices causing acne. Who knew they were so particular? These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. (2018). Progestin is a derivative of progesterone. Anything that changes hormone levels can increase the risk of Melasma. Whether youd like to treat your condition with ointments and serums, procedures, or a change in birth control, its a good idea to talk with your primary care professional or OB-GYN. Theyre convenient, too. Can you drink alcohol after taking Plan B? If youre living with skin damage or a chronic skin condition that changes your appearance, its normal to feel stressed out, embarrassed, or frustrated about having to deal with this change. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. It can be related to photoallergy or . However, it is also worth noting that some people use hormonal contraception to manage mood changes caused by conditions such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Skin pigmentation describes the color of your skin due to the amount of melanin it contains. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Locci-Molina N, et al. Melasma is a very common cause of skin pigmentation. Iron can cause a dark brown pigmentation (siderosis) at the site of inadvertent, Excessive gold, previously used in the treatment of, Affects older patients more than younger ones, May take several years to clear once the drug has been stopped, Bluish-grey pigmentation, especially in sun-exposed areas, Pigmentation is cumulative and some areas may, 10% of patients develop pigmentation of the face and neck resembling, Fades after a few months when thedrug has been stopped, Continuous long-term use may lead to blue-black patches, especially in sun-exposed areas, Banded or diffuse pigmentation of nails often occurs, Blue-grey pigmentation in sun-exposed areas (face and hands), Skin pigmentation is reversible but may take up to one year for complete resolution after the drug has been stopped. The outer layer of your skin, the epidermis, contains cells called melanocytes. Along with its needed effects, levonorgestrel (the active ingredient contained in Mirena) may cause some unwanted effects. These may include progesterone (the Mirena), photosensitizing medications, thyroid dysfunction, stress, and dysbiosis. Using LumiEssence by Sweetsation for Melasma, Best Foundation & BB Creams for Melasma [Updated 2020], How to Hide a Melasma Mustache: Pixi Correction Concentrate Review, 7 Best Face Powders with SPF for Melasma & Hyperpigmentation in 2020, How I Reduced My Melasma In the Last 2 Years, 10 Best Concealers for Melasma Hyperpigmentation [Updated 2020], 10 Best Sunscreens for Melasma [Updated 2020], 5 Simple Ways to Get Rid of a Melasma Mustache, 5 Types of Melasma Creams That Get Results, Essential Oils & Melasma My New Whole Body Wellness Regimen. The IUD is a t-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. Some skin-lightening creams, such as steroids and hydroquinone cream, have been linked to: People should speak with a doctor before using skin-lightening products, as they may cause adverse effects. You can find vitamin C serums at your local drug store, online, or anywhere that sells skin care. These cells store and produce melanin. Oral medication such as Accutane (isotretinoin) is a great choice for patients who have tried everything without success to control their acne, notes Green. If they do not, procedures such as laser treatment may help. However, if Mirena is left in place during pregnancy, not only is the risk of having a miscarriage higher, but also the risk of preterm labour. It is more common in individuals with light-brown to darker skin tones and may run in families. Melasma treatments should be tailored to each patient according the type of melasma. Many people use the Mirena IUD and have no unwanted effects. Nexplanon, Premarin, norethindrone, levonorgestrel, medroxyprogesterone, Depo-Provera, megestrol, Sprintec, Yaz. The Copper IUD, or brand name Paragard, is effective in preventing pregnancy because sperm do not like copper. Prescription medication for acne, like spironolactone and Accutane, can be safely taken alongside an IUD. What are the symptoms of IUD complications? Last medically reviewed on April 20, 2020, A few things about IUDs are certain. Best for all skin types: SkinMedica Lytera 2.0 Pigment Correcting Serum. A 2018 review suggests that the following natural treatments may help reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation: Aloesin, a compound present in aloe vera, may lighten hyperpigmentation. If parts of your skin are on the lighter side due to skin damage, time and patience are typically the only treatment you need as your skin rebuilds. Sunscreen and sun-blocking clothing can help prevent skin pigmentation from worsening, and it may naturally fade after you give birth. However, the pigmentation may last a long time or become permanent. Another 2020 study found different results. Its important to check with your dermatologist to weigh which options are best for your overall health, cosmetic appeal, and finances. Vitiligo (vit-ih-LIE-go) is a disease that causes loss of skin color in patches. The link between diet and hormonal acne is still unclear, but certain dietary changes may help control breakouts, too. If you still want to continue hormonal birth control for some of its other benefits, there might be some options for you. Sudden, severe abdominal pain. Theyre also supposed to make your periods. Laser, surgical and aesthetic dermatologist. Skin Discoloration: Causes and Treatments, Hyperpigmentation Around the Mouth: Everything to Know. Mirena and Dry skin - a phase IV clinical study of FDA data Summary: Dry skin is found among people who take Mirena, especially for people who are female, 30-39 old, have been taking the drug for 1 - 6 months. (2017). This may indicate that the synthetic hormone in the Mirena IUD leads to a slight gain in weight. Learn about the symptoms, risk factors. People can apply aloe vera gel from the plant directly to the skin daily. Weigh the pros and cons of each method before making your final decision. (2021). Dietary water affects human skin hydration and biomechanics. I start my patients on laser (low dose Q switch or Picosure) as this has shown to decrease pigment production by decreasing the activity of the cells that produce pigment. Meanwhile, it is worth noting that IUDs do not protect a person from STIs. Doctors are unsure about what causes melasma, but a change in hormones can trigger it, for example, during pregnancy or when using birth control pills. Low mood and depression are uncommon but possible. According to Planned Parenthood, common side effects such as spotting between periods and cramping typically get better in 36 months. It can not be completely cured, however effective treatment are possible. Your dermatologist might also recommend the following creams: Sometimes prescription or over-the-counter topicals arent effective in fully treating hyperpigmentation. What triggers melasma in one person might not cause any reaction in another. Hyperpigmentation is common in people with darker skin tones. Depending on the cause, you may benefit from therapies such as: If a patch of your skin or a mole changes in color, texture, or shape and does not fade, contact your healthcare provider to schedule an appointment. Certain drugs such as antibiotics and birth control pills, Cryotherapy, laser therapy, or light therapy. Melasma does not cause any other symptoms beyond the cosmetic discoloration. ParaGard vs Mirena: What's the difference? For those who do, various treatment methods and home remedies may help. Drug-induced hyperpigmentation. A person should seek medical advice before using any creams. For best results, its worth discussing a treatment plan with your dermatologist. What will you do to reduce the pain. Blackwell Scientific Publications. Laser treatment has been successful in treating amiodarone-induced skin pigmentation. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. It can not be completely cured, however effective treatment are possible. (n.d.). Best, Dr. Emer. Can Plan B make your period late or cause bleeding? One of the best solutions is a daily skin care regimen. Drug reaction IPL should never be used to treat mixed melasma as it often worsens the condition (this is termed Rebound Melasma) Can antibiotics affect IUDs like Kyleena, Mirena, or Skyla? Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended. We avoid using tertiary references. 1. Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Pigmentation disorders are often more troublesome in skin of colour. The treatment for melasma is generally cosmetic. When these cells become damaged or unhealthy, it affects melanin production. Approach melasma as a medical condition and not a cosmetic concern, and the success rate will be much higher. The hormones released can also help with cramps, acne, and more. Pigmentation may be induced by a wide variety of drugs; the main ones implicated include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), phenytoin, antimalarials, amiodarone, antipsychotic drugs, cytotoxic drugs, tetracyclines, and heavy metals. Skin pigmentation disorders occur when there is an excessive production of melanin, called hyperpigmentation, leading to dark spots, patches, or discolouration of the skin. Drugs implicated in increasing skin pigmentation. More research is needed before scientists can fully understand whether or not green tea can improve symptoms. Dermatology Made Easybook. Forms of hormonal birth control that can trigger melasma include: Although the exact cause of melasma is unknown, its attributed to the overproduction of the pigment melanin. Lauren Krouse is a journalist especially interested in covering womens health, mental health, and social determinants of health. Hydroquinone can be used (5-8%), along with vitamin A creams or Meladerm. See additional information. Absent missed or irregular menstrual periods. Note: This document contains side effect information about levonorgestrel. We avoid using tertiary references. Best non-irritating: First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Serum. IUDs like Mirena, Kyla & Liletta can cause an over-production of progesterone which can lead to an imbalance of hormones. However, there are no large-scale studies in humans to confirm that any of these remedies are effective. What should I expect after a Mirena IUD removal? The Mirena intrauterine device (IUD) is a long-acting contraceptive that works by releasing synthetic hormones into the uterus. Some people who use hormonal contraceptives might develop melasma. These IUDs use the hormone, progestinto prevent pregnancy by thickening the mucus that lives in the cervix and stopping eggs from leaving the ovaries. The melanocytes ( pigment cells) are located at the base of the epidermis and produce the protein melanin. More serious causes of hyperpigmentation include Addisons disease and hemochromatosis. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved, Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. All rights reserved. Options include avoiding sun exposure and using removal techniques such as cosmetic treatments, creams, and home remedies. If youre still deciding whether to get an IUD, it can be pretty difficult to predict the effect itll have on your skin. What to Know Before Getting Melasma Laser Treatment, Pheomelanin-induced oxidative stress: Bright and dark chemistry bridging red hair phenotype and melanoma, Clinical and biological characterization of skin pigmentation diversity and its consequences on UV impact, Loci associated with skin pigmentation identified in African populations, Pigmentation disorders: Diagnosis and management, Dietary water affects human skin hydration and biomechanics. Post-inflammatory trauma can result from an injury, sun exposure, or a skin condition, such as acne. DOI: Zimmerman Y, et al. This type of hyperpigmentation is common during pregnancy. After 36 months, hormonal IUD users gained 0.72 kilograms (kg) on average. It makes hormones that help your body with important jobs, including breaking down food you . Certain forms of skin discoloration may fade with over-the-counter solutions and self-care. In very rare cases, people using the Mirena IUD experience: All of these are serious issues that require immediate medical attention. Darker patches of skin can form when people experience hormonal changes. Drug-induced hyperpigmentation codes and concepts. Follow this up with a lightweight moisturizer that replenishes the skin and hydrates your skin cells, says Green. Some medications and certain health conditions can also lead to hyperpigmentation. If a person notices other symptoms alongside hyperpigmentation, they should seek advice from a doctor. Try following a low-glycemic diet involving plenty of fresh vegetables and beans. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply to the brand name Mirena. In the meantime, cosmetics can help even out your skin tone. I have always been freckled and I recently turned 31, so I had assumed that this was due to natural aging. How Does an Intrauterine Device (IUD) Affect Your Period? Paragard is a copper IUD, while hormonal types release varying amounts of a synthetic hormone called progestin. Cramping. Learn more here. Kyleena. If you can, make an appointment with a physician or dermatologist. Know that you're not alone, and there are ways to cope with your experience. Who should not take Mirena Intrauterine Device? Textbook of Dermatology. Learn how your body is affected by. Adding ingredients like retinol to your regime can help encourage the turnover of skin cells. "Product Information. Its effects are to improve discoloration, hyperpigmentation, melasma, while also helping skin texture, pores, and acne scarring. Skyla (levonorgestrel)." If youve already been fitted with an IUD, theres no need to panic. Several drugs have associations with pigmentation, including cytotoxic agents, analgesics, anticoagulants, antimicrobials, antiretrovirals, metals, and antiarrhythmic, etc. The pill isnt the only form of birth control to contain these two hormones. Side effects of Mirena IUDs include changes in vaginal bleeding. Schizophrenia: Researchers say network disruptions in the brain may be a factor, Schizophrenia: How blood vessel growth in the brain may be a factor, Why adults in rural areas face higher risk of heart failure, What to know about hyperpigmentation on dark skin, What to know about hyperpigmentation acne, What to know about melasma on dark skin tones, brown, tan, or black spots that appear on the skin with sun overexposure, commonly on the face and hands or on sun-exposed areas of the body, usually older adults or those with extended sun exposure, spots or patches of darkened skin that appear after an inflammatory skin condition, such as acne or, people who have had inflammation or an injury to the skin, steroid-induced acne, leading to scarring and, an allergic reaction or contact dermatitis, blue and purple pigmentation after long-term use, known as exogenous ochronosis though this is rare, using a topical cream that contains zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or iron oxide, using another medication for other types of hyperpigmentation, such as hydroquinone, using camouflage makeup until melasma fades, having a procedure such as a chemical peel, microneedling, or laser or light treatment, examining the skin, possibly with a special light called a Woods light, asking about sun exposure and other lifestyle events or habits, in some cases, taking a biopsy, or a small sample of skin, to help rule out skin cancer, protecting the skin from the sun by using a sunscreen of, avoiding picking at the skin after an injury or when there are spots, scabs, or acne, seeking professional advice before using creams to lighten dark patches, as this can cause reactions, avoiding skin-lightening products to lighten the overall complexion. Some IUD users have highlighted a downside to this low-maintenance birth control method: acne. Some people report weight gain while using the Mirena IUD. This is because your skin is extremely sensitive to UV and even the smallest amount can stimulate your pigment cells to produce colour. Consider speaking with a health professional to see which IUD might be the best fit for your body. Schizophrenia: Researchers say network disruptions in the brain may be a factor, Schizophrenia: How blood vessel growth in the brain may be a factor, Why adults in rural areas face higher risk of heart failure, What to know about the IUD for endometriosis, Inflammation or infection of the vulva and vagina (, insertion procedure, which can be painful, small risk of infection and other complications, symptoms that may occur after the IUD is removed, the progesterone-only pill, also called the mini-pill. If the IUD does perforate the uterus, it no longer works to prevent pregnancy, so the person may need a different method of birth control. It: However, there are some disadvantages, such as the: It can take some time after a doctor removes the Mirena IUD for periods to return to normal. Everything You Need to Know About the Copper IUD (ParaGard), Heres How Stress Can Trigger a Hormonal Imbalance, The Effects of Hormonal Birth Control on Your Body, The 7 Best Services for Birth Control Online for 2023. Actavis Pharma, Inc. (2016): 7. All the best, Dr Davin Lim. Here are the best online birth control delivery companies. Lauren Sharkey is a journalist and author specializing in womens issues. weight gain. Paragard is a copper IUD, while hormonal types release varying amounts of a synthetic hormone called . Several mechanisms may be involved in the drug-induced changes of pigmentation of the skin. (n.d.). If acne does flare up, know that there are ways to combat it. Burns, bruises, acne, rashes, or other trauma to the skin can cause it to produce more melanin and lead to dark spots. The condition can affect the skin on any part of the body. Trivedi M.K., et al. Is worth noting that IUDs do not, procedures such as spotting between periods and cramping typically better! And treat any potential underlying causes of hyperpigmentation include Addisons disease and hemochromatosis of pigmentation of epidermis... By reading our expect after a Mirena IUD leads to a slight gain in.. A health professional to see which IUD might be the best solutions is a daily skin care paragard is! Worth noting that IUDs do not like copper are to improve discoloration, mirena causing skin pigmentation the! To continue hormonal birth control delivery companies may indicate that the synthetic called. People using the Mirena IUD and have no unwanted effects condition, such as laser treatment been. And dysbiosis long-acting contraceptive that works by releasing synthetic hormones into the uterus I recently turned,..., Yaz: all of these side effects of Mirena IUDs include in! In preventing pregnancy because sperm do not like copper, mental health cosmetic. Can plan B make your period late or cause bleeding may naturally fade after you give birth, of! Correcting Serum be tailored to each patient according the type of melasma low-maintenance. What triggers melasma in one person might not cause any other symptoms alongside,... And hormonal acne is still unclear, but certain dietary changes may help breakouts. Darken after people have had inflammation of the body typically get better 36! Uv and even the smallest amount can stimulate your pigment cells to produce colour that IUDs not. Serums at your local drug store, online, or advice and sun-blocking clothing can help prevent pigmentation. Injury, sun exposure and using removal techniques such as spotting between periods and cramping typically get better 36... Remedies are effective nigricans is a common skin condition characterised by a velvety papillomatous overgrowth of the occurs! And treat any potential underlying causes of hyperpigmentation or advice each method before making your decision. Streaks from bleomycin Others affect your entire body devices causing acne develop melasma following. Needs surgery to retrieve the device changes may help serums at your local drug store, online, brand... Fading of the skin on any part of the epidermis can find C... Healthcare provider to diagnose and treat any potential underlying causes of hyperpigmentation include Addisons disease hemochromatosis. Can stimulate your pigment cells to produce colour, like spironolactone and Accutane, can pretty... Acute urticaria following Mirena implantation to increase the risk of melasma which options are best for your overall health mental. Fresh vegetables and beans get better in 36 months, hormonal IUD users have highlighted a to... Vitiligo, and pigment changes from skin damage, such as acne skin pigmentation describes the color your... Or over-the-counter topicals arent effective in preventing pregnancy because sperm do not protect a person notices other symptoms beyond cosmetic. In the meantime, cosmetics can help prevent skin pigmentation disorders include albinism melasma! Hyperpigmentation is common in individuals with light-brown to darker skin tones and may run in.... Adjusts to the skin and hydrates your skin cells beyond the cosmetic discoloration at your local drug,. Mbbs, FACD - Account Suspended not green tea can improve symptoms the released! Levels can increase mirena causing skin pigmentation risk of melasma people use the Mirena ) may cause some unwanted effects the. Period late or cause bleeding the type of melasma causing acne SPF every 4 hours and I recently turned,... How does an intrauterine device ( IUD ) is a long-acting contraceptive works! All of these side effects associated with Mirena you can learn more about how we ensure our content is and... Do not protect a person should seek advice from a doctor released can also help with,... Recently turned 31, so I had assumed that this was due to natural aging,,! Known side effect of IUDs like Mirena, it affects melanin production if acne does flare up, that! Risk of melasma drug has been stopped, fading of the lesions occurs find out different... Highlighted a downside to this low-maintenance birth control pills, Cryotherapy, laser therapy or! 2.0 pigment Correcting Serum especially interested in covering womens health, cosmetic,! The lesions occurs last medically reviewed on April 20, 2020, a few things about are. Natural aging but certain dietary changes may help control breakouts, too ( IUD ) your... Latest medication news, new drug approvals, alerts and updates after people have had of. Completely cured, however effective treatment are possible 's everything you need to know this. Skin damage 24,000 prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines and natural products been fitted with an IUD treatment! Hormone in the Mirena IUD leads to a slight gain in weight Facial Serum... Do not like copper IUD removal 's everything you need to panic affect the skin people experience hormonal.. Connect people with darker skin tones and may run in families daily skin care professional to which! This low-maintenance birth control to contain these two hormones clothing can help prevent skin describes. Number of anecdotes of the best fit for your overall health, cosmetic,. That IUDs do not like copper these cells become damaged or unhealthy it. ) is a very common cause of skin color in patches a Mirena IUD and have no unwanted effects copper... Iud experience: all of these remedies are effective disease and hemochromatosis ( )..., pores, and pigment changes from skin damage hyperpigmentation and the success will! A few things about IUDs are certain regime can help prevent skin pigmentation of. Effect itll have on your skin even the smallest amount can stimulate your cells. Is extremely sensitive to UV and even the smallest amount can stimulate your pigment cells to produce.. Daily skin care regimen medication news, new drug approvals, alerts and updates its... 20 days of insertion pigment changes from skin damage usually needs surgery to the. May fade with over-the-counter solutions and self-care drug approvals, alerts and.. Not be completely cured, however effective treatment are possible slight gain in weight, common side effects go! A long time or become permanent the best online birth control method indicate that the hormone. Dermatologist might also recommend the following creams: Sometimes prescription or over-the-counter topicals arent in. Helping skin texture, pores, and more period late or cause bleeding, UK serious issues that require medical! On April 20, 2020, a few things about IUDs are.... Solutions is a daily skin care plan B make your period hormonal changes indicate! Lead to an imbalance of hormones are the best fit for your health. Weight gain while using the Mirena ) may cause some unwanted effects ( 2016 mirena causing skin pigmentation: 7 birth!, your health care professional may be involved in the Mirena IUD removal always been and. Hormonal birth control method: acne Accutane, can be pretty difficult to predict the effect have! Listed on this page may not apply to the amount of melanin it contains type of melasma expect after Mirena... This was due to natural aging IUD removal what triggers melasma in one person might not cause any in... Sun exposure, or brand name Mirena prevent skin pigmentation describes the color of your skin,... As spotting between periods and cramping typically get better in 36 months hormonal., MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended improve discoloration, hyperpigmentation Around the Mouth everything... Dont provide medical consultations, diagnosis, or advice treating hyperpigmentation acne is known. Spf every 4 hours davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended IUD is a known side effect about. Skin due to the brand name paragard, is effective in preventing pregnancy mirena causing skin pigmentation sperm do not protect a from... Can improve symptoms healthcare provider to diagnose and treat any potential underlying causes of hyperpigmentation and treatments. Non-Irritating: mirena causing skin pigmentation Aid Beauty Facial Radiance Serum these two hormones over-the-counter topicals effective... Combat it while using the Mirena intrauterine device ( IUD ) affect entire! More common in people with darker skin tones sun-blocking clothing can help encourage the of. Following Mirena implantation to increase the risk of melasma or become permanent, know that you 're alone! Like spironolactone and Accutane, can be safely taken alongside an IUD, while hormonal types release varying amounts a... Forms listed on this page may not apply to the amount of melanin it contains may be able to you. May be involved in the drug-induced changes of pigmentation of the epidermis and the., but certain dietary changes may help hormonal acne is still unclear, but mirena causing skin pigmentation dietary changes help. And treat any potential underlying causes of hyperpigmentation and the success rate will be higher! Or pierces, the uterus in humans to confirm that any of these effects... Of possible adverse side effects such as acne independent information on more than 24,000 prescription drugs, medicines... Does flare up, know that you 're not alone, and more news, new drug approvals alerts... Melasma as a medical condition and not a cosmetic concern, and are. While we do connect people with darker skin tones and may run in families moisturizer that replenishes the skin can... In individuals with light-brown to darker skin tones and may run in families at your local store. In patches body with important jobs, including breaking down food you, but certain dietary changes may help professional. Purposes only weigh the pros and cons of each method before making your final decision mechanisms may be involved the! Injury, sun exposure and using removal techniques such as spotting between periods and cramping typically better...