Melasma

Overview

Melasma can be due to hormonal changes during pregnancy or from sun exposure. Women are much more likely than men to develop this condition.

Symptoms

The brown or gray-brown patches of melasma appear most often on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin.

Treatments

Melasma often fades on its own after pregnancy or after an affected woman goes off birth control pills. Skin lightening creams can help lasting melasma.