Melasma

Description

Introduction

Melasma are patches of dark skin that appear on areas of the face that are exposed to the sun.

Causes

The exact cause of Melasma remains unknown.

Experts believe that the dark patches in Melasma could be triggered by several factors, including pregnancy, birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy (HRTand progesterone), family history of Melasma, race, antiseizure medications, and other medications that make the skin more prone to pigmentation after exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light.

Uncontrolled sunlight exposure is considered the leading cause of Melasma, especially in individuals with a genetic predisposition to this condition. Clinical studies have shown that individuals typically develop Melasma in the summer months, when the sun is most intense. In the winter, the hyperpigmentation in Melasma tends to be less visible or lighter.

Symptoms:

Common signs (what you see) of Melasma are brown or grey-brown patches on the face. These patches most commonly appear on the:

Cheeks.

Forehead.

Bridge of the nose.

Above the upper lip.

Chin.

Some people get patches on their forearms or neck. This is less common.

Melasma does not cause any symptoms (what people feel). But many people dislike the way Melasma makes their skin look. If you dislike these patches, sun protection and treatment can help.