Melasma
Also known as: Chloasma, Mask of pregnancy, Melanoderma, Facial pigmentation
Melasma is a common condition causing symmetric brown to grayish patches on the face, often triggered by sun and hormones.
Signs & Symptoms
- Symmetric brown patches
- Gray-brown discoloration
- Typically on cheeks, nose, forehead
- Equal distribution bilaterally
- No itching or scaliness
Causes
- Excessive sun exposure (prime trigger)
- Hormonal changes (pregnancy, hormonal medications)
- Genetic predisposition
- Skin inflammation
- Use of phototoxic products
Risk Factors
- Female gender
- Darker skin types (Fitzpatrick III-V)
- Age 20-60 years
- Living in sunny climates
- Pregnancy and oral contraceptives
When to See a Doctor
See a dermatologist if you have symmetric facial brown patches, especially if worsening. Early intervention prevents deepening.
Treatment Options
Treatment options vary by individual. Consult a dermatologist for a personalised plan.
- Strict sunscreen use (SPF 50+)
- Topical depigmenting agents
- Chemical peels
- Laser therapy (Q-switched, picosecond)
- Combination therapy
Understanding Melasma
Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by symmetric patches of hyperpigmentation, typically on the cheeks, bridge of nose, forehead, or upper lip. It affects an estimated 5-14% of the global population, with higher prevalence in darker skin types.
Characteristics
- Symmetric distribution
- Sharply demarcated borders
- Brown to gray-brown color
- Non-inflammatory (no itching or scaliness)
- Usually on face, occasionally neck and forearms
Root Causes
Primary Triggers
Sun Exposure: Ultraviolet radiation is the primary trigger, stimulating melanocytes to produce excess melanin.
Hormonal Factors: Estrogen and progesterone increase melanin production, triggered by pregnancy or oral contraceptives.
Genetic Predisposition: More prevalent in certain ethnic groups.
Secondary Contributors
- Specific medications (antimalarials, tetracyclines)
- Cosmetic products containing irritants
- Thyroid disorders
- Genetic polymorphisms affecting melanin regulation
Types of Melasma
Epidermal: Melanin in upper skin layers; darker, responds better to treatment
Dermal: Melanin deposited deeper; grayish, difficult to treat
Mixed: Combination of epidermal and dermal; most common
Prevention Strategies
Sun Protection:
- Use SPF 50+ daily, reapply every 2 hours
- Wear protective clothing and wide-brimmed hats
- Avoid peak sun hours (10 AM - 4 PM)
Hormonal Management:
- Discuss alternatives to hormonal medications with your physician
- Consider alternatives during high-risk periods
Skincare:
- Use gentle, non-irritating products
- Avoid known phototoxic substances
- Maintain consistent regimen
“When to see a doctor”: If plaques are new, changing rapidly, or accompanied by symptoms, professional evaluation is important.
Available Treatments
Professional treatments show better results than home care alone. We customize treatment plans based on melasma type and individual factors.
Schedule your melasma consultation today for personalized evaluation and treatment plan.
Treated at Our Clinic
Have this condition?
Call the clinic or visit Dr. Sanjay Agrawal directly for a proper diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.