Wellness
What is Melasma? A Simple Guide
Understand melasma, the common skin condition causing dark facial patches, its triggers like hormones and sun exposure, and its impact on people.
What is it?
Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by brown, tan, or blue-gray patches, a form of hyperpigmentation. It is not harmful, contagious, or cancerous. These discolored patches typically appear symmetrically on the face, especially on the cheeks, forehead, chin, and the bridge of the nose. Melasma is particularly common in women, with about 90% of cases occurring in females. It is often referred to as "chloasma" or the "mask of pregnancy" when it develops during pregnancy.
Why is it trending?
Awareness of melasma is growing due to increased public conversation around skincare and hormonal health. Its primary triggers are hormonal fluctuations—like those during pregnancy or from birth control pills—and sun exposure, which stimulates pigment production. Genetic predisposition also plays a significant role, making it more prevalent in individuals with darker skin tones. As people become more educated about advanced skincare treatments for hyperpigmentation, melasma remains a relevant and widely discussed topic online and in dermatology.
How does it affect people?
While melasma causes no physical harm, its visible appearance on the face can significantly impact a person's self-esteem and confidence. The condition can be chronic and challenging to treat, often fading in the winter and darkening with sun exposure in the summer. This persistence can lead to frustration as individuals seek effective treatments, which may include topical creams or in-office procedures. Consequently, managing melasma requires a long-term commitment to diligent sun protection to prevent the patches from returning or worsening.