Birth Control, Melasma, and Tanning - General Health Message Board

fadam0023 · 09-01-2004, 06:06 AM

Back in Jun I did the tanning beds 4 times. It was over a month an a half ago. My face is now starting to look different. Parts of my face is white and parts of my face is olive. Could it just be my tan fading or does it sound like Melasma. I have been on birth control(lo/ovral generic) and so I am not sure if this could be melasma. Has anyone gotten melasma w/ birth control? Any suggestions?

AnnieinPA · 09-01-2004, 05:45 PM

It definitely sounds like melasma to me. I myself have not reacted that way to birth control, but I know people who have. If it is right around your mouth and forehead, that's probably what it is. Microdermabrasion, although expensive, normally clears it up pretty well. Five sessions I believe in my area run close to $900.

AbbyS · 09-01-2004, 08:51 PM

probably is melasma, the hormones in birth control make it worse for some reason, but mostly tanning is what makes it noticable. a general doctor can give you some retin-a cream to fade it but you will have to use sunscreen also.
hope this helps. I have several large spots but they always fade in the winter.