How to overcome melasma, aka 'pregnancy mask'

KTRK logo
Thursday, February 9, 2017
How to overcome melasma
Millions of women across the country suffer from melasma, also known as the pregnancy mask. Learn how Ginger Zee overcame hers.

'Good Morning America' meteorologist Ginger Zee is opening up about her struggle with melasma.

Melasma -- also known as 'pregnancy mask' -- is a skin condition triggered by hormones, which causes blotchy, dark patches on the forehead, cheeks and upper lip. Experts say it impacts up to 70 percent of pregnant women.

Ginger noticed melasma on her face after she gave birth to her little boy, so she decided to ask her dermatologist how to get her pre-baby complexion back.

Her treatment started with a gentle chemical peel.

"The whole thing isn't terribly uncomfortable. There's no downtime," said Dr. Bowe.

After that, Ginger had to follow a daily routine of using sunscreen mixed with an anti-oxident serum on her face in the morning.

She had to cover up her face every time she went out in the sun, but her splotches were gone after three months.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, microdermabrasion is another treatment for melasma, or a dermatologist could prescribe a cream or kojic acid to help lighten your skin.