Melasma

Melasma is a typical skin condition that causes the presence of brown to gray-brown patches of skin because of the body delivering an excess of melanin, a characteristic substance that gives color to our hair, skin, and eyes. It generally appears on the face, (cheeks+nose) forearms or neck.

Causes

Genetic predisposition may give rise to darkening of the skin.

Sun Exposure
The condition is often linked with female hormonal changes. Change in level of estrogen and progesterone may cause melasma especially during pregnancy and menopause.
Patients diagnosed with thyroid are also prone to have melasma
Allergic Reactions
Stress

Symptoms of Melasma

Melasma causes patches of staining. The patches are darker than your normal skin color. It commonly happens on the face and is symmetrical, with matches’ blemishes on both sides of your face. Different areas of your body that are often exposed to the sun can likewise develop melasma.

Brownish colored patches normally show up on the:

Cheeks
Chin
Extension of the nose
Forehead
Skin area between upperlips and nose

It can likewise happen in the neck and lower arms. The skin discoloration doesn't cause any physical damage; except, you may feel self-conscious about the way it looks.

Treatment

Treatments may include:

Creams that contain certain substances that reduce the presence of melasma
Chemical peels or topical steroid creams
Laser treatment to remove the dark pigment if melasma is extreme
Stopping hormone medicines that might be the cause of the problem.

Melasma

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