What is melasma?

Melasmais a type of skin darkening (hyperpigmentation) that is seen most commonly onthe face.

�        It may develop during pregnancy,while taking birth control pills, during menopause, or it may appear for noobvious reason.

�        It is worsened by exposure tosunlight.

Who gets it?

�        Melasma most commonly appears inwomen during their reproductive years, particularly those women who have darkercomplexions and live, or were born, in a sunny climate.

�         It is most often seen in Asia, the MiddleEast, South America, Africa, and the Indian subcontinent.

�        In North America it is most commonlyseen in among Hispanics, African-Americans, and immigrants from countries inwhich it is very common.

What does it look like?

�        Tan or brown spots are seen mainly onthe cheeks, the jaw, forehead, nose, chin, and above the upper lip.

What can Iexpect?

�        During pregnancy, the darkening ofthe skin often appears in the second and third trimesters and usually fadesafter the end of pregnancy.

�        It also tends to fade when oralcontraceptives are stopped or when sunlight is avoided.

�        However, it may remain for manyyears, or for a lifetime.

How is ittreated?

�        Treatment of melasma involves usingone or more bleaching agents and sometimes a cosmetic to camouflage it. Inaddition, sun avoidance and the use of sun blocks are very important.

�        In some countries, bleaching creamsthat contain 2% hydroquinone are readily available over-the-counter. Strongerpreparations are also available by prescription only.

�        There are also other lighteningagents that may be used in addition to hydroquinone.

�        This treatment requires patienceduring the many months in which lightening agents must be applied.

�        Without the strict avoidance ofsunlight, successful treatments for melasma will not work

�        The use of sunscreens is veryimportant. They should be used on a daily basis, whether it is sunny or not.

�        Chemical peels, microdermabrasion,and laser treatments have also been used to treat melasma.