Melasma: Overview

What is melasma

Melasma (muh-LAZ-muh) is a common skin problem. It causes brown to gray-brown patches, usually on the face. Most people get it on their cheeks, bridge of their nose, forehead, chin, and above their upper lip. It also can appear on other parts of the body that get lots of sun, such as the forearms and neck.

One of the most common treatments for melasma is sun protection. This means wearing sunscreen every day and reapplying the sunscreen every 2 hours. Dermatologists also recommend wearing a wide-brimmed hat when you are outside. Sunscreen alone may not give you the protection you need.

Women are far more likely than men to get melasma. It is so common during pregnancy that melasma is sometimes called "the mask of pregnancy." Hormones seem to trigger melasma.

Image used with permission of the American Academy of Dermatology National Library of Dermatologic Teaching Slides.

Melasma: Signs and Symtoms

Common signs (what you see) of melasma are brown or gray-brown patches on the face. These patches most commonly appear on the:

Cheeks.

Forehead.

Bridge of the nose.

Above the upper lip.

Chin.

Some people get patches on their forearms or neck. This is less common.

Melasma does not cause any symptoms (what people feel). But many people dislike the way melasma makes their skin look. If you dislike these patches, sun protection and treatment can help.