Melasma, also known as chloasma, is a skin condition that primarily affects women during their childbearing years. 

It is characterized by dark spots on the face, mainly on the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip. It is believed to be caused by hormonal changes, sun exposure, genetics, and stress. This article will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments of melasma.

What Causes Melasma?

It is not yet clear why some people develop melasma, but research suggests that a combination of environmental factors and hormonal changes play a role. These include:

Hormone Levels: Increased levels of estrogen, progesterone, and melanocyte stimulating hormone (MSH) have been known to cause melasma. Pregnant women are especially susceptible due to their higher levels of hormones. Oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, and other hormonal medications can also increase the risk of melasma.

Sun Exposure: Sun exposure can aggravate melasma and make it worse. Using sunscreen and avoiding prolonged sun exposure can help.

Genetics: Certain genetic factors can also increase the risk of melasma. A family history of melasma increases the risk, as does having certain skin tones, such as those of Middle Eastern, Latino, Asian, or African descent.

Stress: Stress has also been known to trigger or worsen melasma.

What Are the Symptoms of Melasma?

The main symptom of melasma is dark patches of skin that appear on the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip. In some cases, the patches may also appear on the neck, arms, and chest.

The patches may be lighter or darker than the surrounding skin, and may be more intense in some areas than others. The patches can grow and spread, and may become difficult to cover up with makeup.

How is Melasma Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of melasma starts with a physical exam. Your doctor will look for the typical signs and symptoms of the condition and do a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. The biopsy can also help rule out other potential causes of dark spots, such as skin cancer.

Your doctor may also order blood tests to determine hormone levels and check for any underlying medical conditions that may have triggered or worsened the melasma.

What Treatments Are Available For Melasma?

The most effective treatments for melasma are those that address the underlying cause. For instance, if melasma is caused by hormone imbalances, your doctor may recommend treatments such as hormone replacement therapy or oral contraceptives.

Other treatments may include topical prescription creams and ointments to lighten the dark patches, chemical peels, and laser or light therapies. Sun protection is also important in helping prevent new dark spots from appearing.

Melasma is a skin condition that is characterized by dark patches on the face. It is believed to be caused by hormonal changes, sun exposure, genetics, and stress. Treatment may include hormone therapy, prescription creams and ointments, chemical peels, and laser or light therapy. Sun protection is also important in helping to prevent new dark spots from appearing. If you believe you have melasma, it’s important to speak to your doctor to get an accurate diagnosis and to discuss the best treatment plan for your needs.