What to know about melasma in skin of colour

Melasma is flat, uneven pigmentation that often affects the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, nose or jawline. In skin of colour, the contrast may be pronounced and pigment may remain noticeable after inflammation settles. Ultraviolet and visible light can deepen the patches; heat, hormonal changes and irritation may also contribute for some people. A dermatologist can distinguish melasma from post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, a medicine reaction or another pigmented lesion.

Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen consistently and combine it with shade, hats and other physical barriers. A tinted product may help reduce the effect of visible light while evening the appearance of the patches. Keep cleansing gentle, moisturise, and stop products that sting or cause peeling. Ask a dermatologist experienced with skin of colour to choose prescription creams, peels or device-based treatment; overly aggressive treatment can cause inflammation and darker or lighter marks. Take progress photographs in similar lighting rather than changing several products at once.

Seek assessment for a patch that is raised, scaly, painful, bleeding, rapidly changing or unlike the symmetrical pattern of your usual pigmentation. Get advice if treatment causes blistering, severe irritation or a new light patch. Review is also useful when the diagnosis is uncertain or the colour change affects daily life despite careful protection.

Ask how melasma differs from other pigmentation, which ingredients suit your skin, how to prevent irritation, whether a procedure could trigger colour change, and how progress will be assessed.