Melasma (Mask of Pregnancy)

Melasma is a common condition and is found more often in women. Those with darker skin types (including Indians, Hispanics, Middle-Easterners, and North Africans) are more prone to melasma than those with lighter complexions.

Within a patch of melasma, pigment producing cells (called melanocytes) are increased in number and each melanocyte produces more pigment (called melanin). Increased melanin in the skin leads to the tan or brown coloration.

The cause of melasma is not fully understood. However, genetics, hormonal changes, and sun exposure are known to play important roles. For example, melasma often occurs with pregnancy, hence the term “mask of pregnancy.” Oral contraceptives can also trigger melasma.

Although there are some diseases that cause similar changes in the skin, melasma itself has no association with internal disease.

Frequently Asked Questions
• What causes melasma?
Melasma is a common skin disorder. Though it can affect anyone, women with darker skin tones (especially Hispanic, Asian, Indian, and Middle Eastern) are at greatest risk. Melasma can be associated with the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. It is especially common in pregnant women, women who are taking oral contraceptives, and women taking hormone replacement therapy during menopause. The use of cosmetics is associated with melasma but the relationship between the two is not understood. Sun exposure is strongly associated with melasma.

• What are the symptoms of melasma?
Melasma has no associated symptoms.

• What does melasma look like?
Melasma causes irregular tan, brown, or even blue/black patches on parts of the face including cheeks, forehead, nose, chin, jaw line, and upper lip. It is most often symmetrical (matching on both sides of the face).

• How is the diagnosis of melasma made?
Your physician can usually diagnose melasma based upon the appearance of your skin. Your physician may want to examine your skin with a Wood’s lamp to help guide treatment.

• Melasma Treatments