What is melasma?
- Chloasma consists of brown spots/patches on both sides of the face, especially on the cheeks, upper lips, nose and chin. The distribution is usually symmetrical. Chloasma is mainly seen in women of child-bearing age.
- The colour in Chloasma darkens during sunlight exposure. Chloasma tends to occur during pregnancy and with the use of oral contraceptives.
- Chloasma may fade after childbirth or discontinuation of oral contraceptives, but it tends to persist.
What is the treatment of melasma?
- One or more of the following may be tried:
- Remove the underlying cause e.g. oral contraceptives.
- Use sunscreen regularly and avoid sun exposure as far as possible. This will minimise further darkening of the lesions.
- Bleaching agents such as hydroquinone can be used to lighten the colour. The treatment usually takes several months.
- Cosmetic camouflage can be used to hide the colour.
Source of information: here