Melasma

Melasma is a skin condition in which dark patches develop on both sides of the face. The distribution of patches is symmetrical and most commonly appears on the forehead, cheeks, nose, upper lip and chin. The patches are attributed to increased amounts of melanin (skin pigment) in the skin. The excess melanin may be located in the top layers of the skin (epidermis), in deeper layers (dermis) or both. The location of the pigment is an important factor when considering treatment options.

Key to the development of melasma is chronic or intense exposure to sun. The condition may run in families and occurs mainly in women of child-bearing age, especially those who have darker skin and who live in regions with intense sun. The condition has also been called the “mask of pregnancy”, as it tends to appear during pregnancy. After pregnancy, the mask often fades but may recur with subsequent pregnancies. In general, the condition tends to persist, though treatments are available to gradually lighten the darkened skin. Melasma is not dangerous or contagious.