Melasma is a dark skin discoloration found on sun-exposed areas of the face.
Alternative Names:
Chloasma; Mask of pregnancy; Pregnancy mask
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Melasma is a very common skin disorder. Though it can affect anyone, young women with brownish skin tones are at greatest risk.
Melasma is often associated with the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. It is especially common in pregnant women, women who are taking oral contraceptives ("the pill"), and women taking hormone replacement therapy during menopause.
Sun exposure is also a strong risk factor for melasma. It is particularly common in tropical climates.
Symptoms:
Melasma doesn't cause any other symptoms besides skin discoloration but may be of great cosmetic concern.
A uniform brown color is usually seen over the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip. It is most often symmetrical (matching on both sides of the face).
Signs and tests:
Your health care provider can usually diagnose melasma based upon the appearance of your skin. A closer examination using a Wood's lamp may help guide your treatment.
Review Date: 12/25/2006
Reviewed By: Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Associate, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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General Dermatology
