Melasma

A woman with skin that pigments easily may develop melasma if she is pregnant or taking oral contraceptives and then goes out in the sun. The pigmented area often appears like a mask across the cheeks and forehead or on the upper lip.

Melasma causes tan or brown patches to appear on the face. These patches do not itch and are not red or swollen.

Melasma often occurs in women who are pregnant. For this reason, this condition is sometimes called the mask of pregnancy. It may also appear in women who take oral contraceptives.

In order to lower the risk of melasma, a woman can avoid oral contraceptives and stay out of the sun.

A healthcare professional can diagnose melasma based on its physical appearance.

There are no long-term effects from melasma.

There are no risks to others, as melasma is not contagious.

Treatment of melasma includes:

• bleaching creams
• skin care products and peels that contain glycolic acid
• skin peels
• sunscreens that extend into the UVA blocking range
• laser treatments

Side effects depend on the specific products used to treat the melasma. Some people may have a mild allergic reaction to the cream or bleach.

The darkened skin of melasma usually fades somewhat after a woman gives birth or stops using oral contraceptives.

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare professional.