Melasma during pregnancy: what to know

Melasma may appear as flat, fairly even brown or grey-brown patches on the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip. Pregnancy hormones can increase the skin's tendency to produce pigment, while ultraviolet and visible light may deepen it. It is usually a colour change rather than a painful or scaly rash.

Not every pregnancy-related dark patch is melasma. A clinician can distinguish it from Dark Patches On Skin, Uneven Skin Tone, or Sun-Damaged Skin by examining its pattern and asking about products, medicines, and symptoms.

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin and combine it with shade, a hat, and sunglasses. Reapply as directed when outdoors. Choose a gentle cleanser and moisturiser, and avoid scrubbing or fragranced products that sting. Take a photo in consistent lighting if you want to track gradual changes.

Tell your obstetric clinician and dermatologist that you are pregnant before using a pigment product or booking a procedure. Some active medicines and cosmetic treatments may not be suitable during pregnancy. Chemical Peel, Microneedling, Skin Brightening Treatment, and Laser Toning should be discussed individually rather than selected from a general routine.

Arrange an appointment if pigmentation is one-sided, rapidly changing, raised, scaly, itchy, painful, bleeding, or associated with a new mole-like mark. Seek prompt help for facial swelling, blistering, or breathing symptoms after a product. Otherwise, a routine review can confirm melasma and help you choose pregnancy-appropriate care.

Does this pattern fit melasma? Which sunscreen and skincare ingredients are appropriate for me now? Which treatments should wait until after pregnancy or breastfeeding? How should I respond if a product burns, peels, or causes a rash?