Melasma

Description

A condition in which patches of skin on the face darken. It's also called the mask of pregnancy.

Overview

Melasma can be due to hormonal changes during pregnancy or from sun exposure.

Symptoms

The darkening patches of melasma appear most often on the cheeks and forehead.

Treatments

Melasma often fades on its own after pregnancy or after an affected person goes off birth control pills. Daily use of broad-spectrum sunblock and bleaching creams can help lasting melasma.