What should you know about white melasma?

Melasma is a pigment condition that commonly causes brown or grey-brown patches, often on the face. A pale area may reflect reduced pigment, irritation, a reaction to a product, or contrast with nearby darker skin rather than melasma itself. A clinician can inspect the border, surface, distribution, and any scale or inflammation. Comparing the patch with surrounding skin in consistent lighting can help you describe change, but photographs and home tests cannot establish the cause.

Use gentle, fragrance-free skin care and broad-spectrum sun protection while arranging an assessment. Stop any product that causes stinging or redness, and do not scrub or apply unprescribed lightening agents to the patch. If the diagnosis is melasma or another pigment concern, options may include skin brightening treatment, chemical peel, microneedling, or laser toning. Treatment choice depends on the diagnosis, skin sensitivity, and risk of post-inflammatory colour change.

Arrange a dermatology review if a light patch is spreading, sharply bordered, itchy, scaly, inflamed, painful, or associated with hair colour change. Seek prompt care for blistering, marked swelling, or a rapidly evolving rash. These features can point away from uncomplicated melasma and may need a different treatment. Earlier review is also sensible when the change follows a new medication, cosmetic, or procedure.

Ask what pattern the patch follows, whether a lamp or dermoscopy examination would help, and which products should be paused. If melasma is diagnosed, ask how to protect the area from visible light and sun, how long to try a treatment, and what irritation should prompt a review.