Melasma | Chloasma

Melasma is a common skin condition. It is also called chloasma or the “mask of pregnancy” when it appears in pregnant women. The symptoms of melasma are dark, irregular hyperpigmented macules to patches. These patches often develop gradually over time. Although the exact cause has not been determined, melasma is thought to be caused by sun exposure, genetic predisposition, hormone changes, and skin irritation. Individuals with darker skin tones, on hormone replacement therapy, have thyroid disease, who are stressed and women who have been pregnant or are on birth control are all at increased risk of developing melasma.