Melasma is a common cause of facial darkening (hyperpigmentation) in women. It is related to hormonal changes and can be worsened by oral contraceptives. This image displays subtle darkening (hyperpigmentation) of lip in a woman with melasma. In melasma, which most commonly occurs in females following pregnancy or use of oral contraceptives, the skin is darker, but the lesions are not raised. A frequent location for the increased darkness (pigmentation) seen in melasma is the upper lip. As displayed in this image, melasma, while usually affecting the cheeks and lips, can also appear on the forehead. This image displays melasma on the lips and cheeks. In this image, melasma is on the cheeks and extends to the temple. Sun-exposed areas of the face can be affected by melasma, seen on the nose and upper lip in this young woman. This image displays extensive irregular areas of melasma across the cheeks, nose, and chin. Melasma is particularly noticeable in people with darker skin. This image displays melasma affecting the cheeks and upper lip. This image displays extensive melasma on the cheek area. This image displays a lace-like pattern on the cheeks typical of melasma.
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Melasma  Information for adults

Picture of Melasma: Melasma is a common cause of facial darkening (hyperpigmentation) in women. It is related to hormonal changes and can be worsened by oral contraceptives. Divider line
Melasma is a common cause of facial darkening (hyperpigmentation) in women. It is related to hormonal changes and can be worsened by oral contraceptives.
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Self-Care Guidelines
  • Protect your skin from sun exposure to prevent worsening, and use a combined UVB+UVA sunscreen.
  • Use sunscreen year-round, since the skin is very sensitive to even small amounts of ultraviolet (UV) light.
  • With your doctor's permission, stop using medications that may be causing your melasma.
When to Seek Medical Care
Melasma is a benign condition that does not require treatment, but if it becomes bothersome, see your doctor.
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Last Modified: 9 Oct 2009
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