What causes melasma?

Melasma usually appears as flat, patchy brown, grey-brown, or tan areas on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, nose, or jaw. Sun and visible light can stimulate pigment production, so patches may deepen after outdoor exposure even when the exposure does not cause a burn. Pregnancy, hormonal contraception, or other hormone shifts can act as triggers in some people. Family tendency, darker skin tones, heat, and products that inflame the skin may add to susceptibility. Melasma is a pigment disorder rather than a sign that the skin is dirty or damaged by poor hygiene.

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen every day, reapply during prolonged outdoor time, and add shade, a hat, or sunglasses. A tinted product containing iron oxides may help reduce visible-light exposure. Keep skincare gentle: avoid scrubbing, picking, fragranced irritants, and treatments that repeatedly sting. A dermatologist can distinguish melasma from other causes of facial pigmentation and discuss prescription creams, procedures, or maintenance care. Explore [Melasma](/conditions/melasma/) and [Sun-Damaged Skin](/conditions/photoaging/) for related information.

Arrange an assessment if pigmentation is new, changing quickly, one-sided, raised, itchy, bleeding, painful, or unlike your usual patches. Seek care sooner when a dark mark involves the eye area or follows a new medicine. A clinician may examine the pattern and ask about pregnancy, contraception, medicines, sun exposure, heat, and skincare reactions before recommending treatment.

Could this be melasma or another pigment condition? Which triggers should I avoid? Is a prescription treatment suitable for my skin and current medicines? How should I protect the area from sunlight and visible light? What maintenance plan will reduce recurrence?