Melasma

Melasma is a very common patchy brown, tan, or blue-gray facial skin discoloration, almost entirely seen in women in the reproductive years. It typically appears on the upper cheeks, upper lip, forehead, and chin of women 20-50 years of age. Although possible, it is uncommon in males. It is thought to be primarily related to external sun exposure, external hormones like birth control pills, and internal hormonal changes as seen in pregnancy. Most people with melasma have a history of daily or intermittent sun exposure. Melasma is most common among pregnant women, especially those of Latin and Asian descents. People with olive or darker skin, like Hispanic, Asian, and Middle Eastern individuals, have higher incidences of melasma.

Causes of Melasma:

• Pregnancy 
• Birth control pills 
• Hormone replacement therapy 
• Uncontrolled sun exposer 

Where Melasma seen on the body?

• forehead 
• cheeks 
• upper lip 
• nose
• chin
• Rarely on the forearms 
• and Rarely on other body parts.