How to help prevent melasma

Melasma causes flat brown or grey-brown patches, commonly on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, or jaw. Light exposure can stimulate pigment cells, and heat, hormonal changes, and skin irritation may contribute for some people. The colour can return after it fades, so prevention focuses on reducing triggers rather than promising a permanent cure. New dark patches are not automatically melasma and may need a diagnosis.

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day on exposed skin and reapply as directed. A tinted product containing iron oxides may help protect against visible light; hats, shade, and avoiding intense midday exposure add protection. Choose fragrance-free, gentle products and stop anything that stings or causes persistent redness. Do not pick or aggressively exfoliate pigmented areas. A dermatologist can discuss prescription treatment or procedures such as chemical peel, microneedling, skin brightening treatment, or laser toning, with attention to your skin tone and the risk of irritation or darker marks.

Seek assessment for a new, changing, raised, bleeding, crusted, or itchy pigmented spot, or for patches that do not fit a symmetrical facial pattern. Review is also sensible when darkening continues despite consistent light protection. A clinician can distinguish melasma from other causes of dark patches and uneven skin tone.

Ask what type of pigmentation you have, whether medicines or hormones may be contributing, and which sunscreen and treatment suit your skin. Tell the clinician if you are pregnant, trying to conceive, breastfeeding, or prone to post-inflammatory darkening.