The Surprising Deficiency Behind Your Melasma

As someone who lived under the Australian sun for seven years and then moved to an even better tropical beach destination to bring out the most melasma in me, I had my share of melasma. I did a lot of research to find out that the skin does that to protect itself, but still, the melasma I had on my face and arms were severe. I wanted them to go away and they did.

Here I share my findings with you. As we often find out in life, the answer is way simpler than we think.

In fact, a staggering 90% of people over 60 have some form of melasma on their face, hands, or other areas of their body. But what if I told you that the scientists have found that the root cause behind melasma is tied to a deficiency in something as simple as; a mineral?

Let’s dive into what aging spots are, why they appear, and most importantly, how a lack of this one key mineral could be fueling the problem.

What Are Aging Spots and Melasma?

At the core of aging spots and melasma is melanin, the pigment responsible for giving our skin, hair, and eyes their color. Melanin’s primary role is to protect the skin from UV radiation, which can damage skin cells. When UV rays hit the skin, melanin acts as a natural sunscreen, absorbing the radiation and dispersing it as heat. This is why people with darker skin tones—who produce more melanin—tend to burn less easily in the sun.

As we age, however, our skin becomes less efficient at managing melanin production. In some areas, melanin is produced in excess, leading to the formation of uneven dark spots on the skin. These can appear as age spots on the face, hands, and chest, or melasma on areas like the cheeks or forehead, often triggered by sun exposure, hormonal changes, or even certain medications.

Why Do We Get It?

Several factors contribute to the development of these darker skin patches:

1. UV Radiation: The most obvious cause of aging spots is exposure to the sun. UV rays damage skin cells and stimulate the production of melanin as a protective response. However, over time, the skin becomes less efficient at distributing melanin evenly, leading to the concentrated spots we see.

2. Oxidative Stress: Another contributing factor to melanin overproduction is oxidative stress. This term refers to the damage caused by free radicals—unstable molecules that can harm cells and tissues. Both external factors (like UV radiation) and internal factors (like inflammation or poor diet) can cause oxidative stress, triggering more melanin production.

3. Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, hormonal medications, or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can increase estrogen and progesterone levels, both of which are linked to the development of melasma.

4. Health Conditions: Certain health issues can also lead to pigmentation changes. For example, diabetes can cause darkened skin around areas like the neck or armpits due to high insulin levels. Similarly, chronic inflammation in the body can increase melanin production.

5. Medications and Stress: Some medications, especially those used for heart conditions or hormonal treatments, can trigger skin pigmentation. Moreover, high stress levels, which lead to increased cortisol (the stress hormone), can also exacerbate the problem.

Is Melasma Dangerous?

While melasma and aging spots are generally not harmful or a sign of skin cancer, they can be an indication of other underlying health issues. However, monitoring the spots for any changes in shape, color, or texture is always a good idea, as some skin cancers can initially resemble benign age spots. If you notice anything unusual, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

The Mineral Deficiency Behind Aging Spots

So, where does the mineral deficiency come into play? The key culprits here are zinc and selenium—two essential trace minerals that play a crucial role in skin health.

Zinc: The Skin’s Best Friend

Zinc is essential for numerous enzymatic functions in the body, including processes that support skin regeneration and repair. As a potent antioxidant, zinc helps protect the skin from oxidative damage caused by UV exposure and other stressors. Zinc also plays a vital role in regulating melanin production, and research has shown that it can help reduce the excess melanin responsible for aging spots.

Selenium: A Powerful Antioxidant

Selenium works in tandem with zinc to support the skin’s defense against oxidative stress. This mineral is a precursor to glutathione, one of the most powerful antioxidants in the body. Glutathione helps neutralize free radicals and protect the skin from damage. In combination, zinc and selenium provide a one-two punch against the overproduction of melanin.

How Zinc and Selenium Help Fade Aging Spots

Both zinc and selenium help restore balance to the skin by reducing the oxidative stress that contributes to the development of aging spots. They also aid in the production of antioxidants that help protect the skin from UV damage. If your body is deficient in either of these minerals, it may struggle to manage melanin production effectively, leading to more pronounced skin discoloration.

Natural Solutions: Zinc and Selenium for Skin Health

To boost your levels of zinc and selenium, scientists mention these two primary ways:

1. Topical Treatments: Look for skincare products that contain zinc or selenium. Creams, serums, or masks infused with these minerals can be directly applied to the skin to help reduce melanin production and fade spots over time.

2. Supplements: A more effective way to ensure you’re getting enough zinc and selenium is through supplements. These minerals work best when taken internally, as they not only benefit your skin but also support overall immune health. When consumed together, they can improve antioxidant levels throughout the body, which will eventually be reflected in healthier, more even-toned skin.

Diet and Lifestyle Hacks

If you are like me and prefer to get what your body needs from actual food instead of supplements, some dietary sources of zinc and selenium are:

Zinc: Oysters, red meat, poultry, beans, nuts, whole grains, and dairy.

Selenium: Brazil nuts, tuna, salmon, eggs, and whole grains.

It’s also important to balance sun exposure to ensure you’re getting enough vitamin D—another crucial factor for skin health. A little sunlight can help your body produce vitamin D, but remember that excessive sun exposure without protection can lead to more skin damage and pigmentation.

A Natural Solution

Instead of relying on harsh chemical treatments or expensive dermatological procedures, you too can consider a more natural approach to even out your skin tone. Boosting your intake of zinc and selenium can help restore balance to your skin, reduce oxidative damage, and regulate melanin production. By addressing the root causes of pigmentation, you can achieve smoother, more even-toned skin without the side effects of synthetic treatments.

If you have aging spots, melasma, or uneven skin tone, obviously sun protection can go a long way in helping you maintain healthy, youthful skin (but does not reverse it).

I chose to take care of my skin from the inside out! You do you.