What should you know about melasma in Indian males?

Melasma is linked to increased pigment activity and may be influenced by ultraviolet light, visible light, heat, hormones, and irritation. In medium to deep skin tones, inflammation from shaving, acne, harsh products, or an aggressive procedure can leave darker marks, so the diagnosis and treatment strength both matter.

Patches are often flat and brown to grey-brown, commonly on the forehead, cheeks, nose, or upper lip. A dermatologist may examine the distribution and ask about outdoor work, driving, shaving products, medicines, and hormonal conditions. Other causes of uneven tone can look similar.

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen every day on exposed areas and consider a tinted formula that helps reduce visible-light exposure. Reapply as directed outdoors, and add shade, a hat, or other physical protection. Shave gently, moisturise, and avoid products that sting or leave lasting redness.

A clinician may suggest topical pigment treatment before considering a procedure. Chemical peel, microneedling, skin brightening treatment, or laser toning can be options for selected patients, but settings and aftercare should be chosen carefully because irritation may deepen pigmentation. Do not use steroid-containing or bleaching mixtures without medical guidance.

Arrange review when pigmentation persists, returns often, or affects confidence despite careful protection. Seek prompt assessment for a mark that is rapidly changing, bleeding, crusting, painful, itchy, or raised. A changing lesion requires examination even when other patches have been diagnosed as melasma.

Ask whether the pattern is melasma or another cause of dark patches, whether shaving or a product is adding inflammation, and whether a tinted sunscreen would suit your routine. Before a procedure, ask about post-inflammatory darkening, the planned intensity, healing time, and the signs that should prompt a follow-up.