What do dark patches on skin feel like with melasma?

Melasma produces brown, tan, or grey-brown areas of increased colour, commonly on the cheeks, forehead, nose, upper lip, or jaw. The patches often have a smooth surface and no distinct sensation. Their edges may be uneven, and both sides of the face can be involved without being perfectly identical.

Sunlight and visible light can make the colour more noticeable. Hormonal changes, heat, and irritation may also influence it. A patch that is scaly, raised, painful, bleeding, or rapidly changing does not fit a simple colour-only description and deserves examination.

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen and physical shade, and consider a hat when outdoors. Choose gentle, fragrance-free skin care and stop products that sting or leave the area inflamed. Concealing makeup can be used if desired and does not treat the pigment.

A dermatologist can confirm whether the pattern is melasma and create a plan that may include topical treatment or carefully selected procedures. Improvement depends on trigger control and the depth of pigment, so avoid unmonitored bleaching products or aggressive treatments.

Arrange an assessment if facial darkening is new, spreading, or difficult to distinguish from another mark. Seek prompt care for a spot that bleeds, crusts, changes rapidly, becomes painful, or forms a persistent sore; urgent help is needed for facial swelling with breathing difficulty.

Ask whether the distribution and surface fit melasma, which light and heat exposures may be worsening it, and which sunscreen and treatment suit your skin. If you are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding, ask which ingredients should be avoided.