If you have patches of brown or grey-brown discolouration on your face, the chances are you are dealing with a type of hyperpigmentation called melasma. So, what is melasma and what causes it? Let’s find out.

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What is Melasma 

So, what is melasma? We’ve got everything you need to know. Also known as ‘chloasma’ or ‘pregnancy mask’, melasma is a common hyperpigmentation skin condition. These darkened patches of skin commonly occur on the face, covering the forehead, nose, and upper lip. Less commonly, the patches may appear on areas of the body, such as the neck and arms. Sometimes the condition can clear up on its own, and in other cases treatment is necessary.

Types of Melasma 

Melasma can be divided into three different types, depending on the depth of the pigment. The three types are:

1. Epidermal – characterised by a dark brown colour and a well-defined border. Responds well to treatment in some cases, as it is the most superficial type, affecting the top layer of skin.
2. Dermal – affects the second, deeper layer of the skin so does not respond as well to treatment. It appears as a light brown or bluish colour with a blurry border.
3. Mixed melasma – the most common type, with bluish and brown patches. Mixed pigmentation often shows a partial improvement in response to treatment.

What Causes Melasma  

Though we know what it is, it is not quite as simple to describe the causes. It is a complex condition and requires further research to provide a definite answer. Current research suggests that there may be a hormonal element to developing melasma, and those who do suffer have more active melanocytes. Melanocytes are the cells that produce melanin pigments, giving the skin its colour. Overactive melanocytes are thought to be genetically predetermined.

Risk Factors 

Around 90% of melasma cases are found in women, particularly those aged between 20 and 40. Pregnant women are largely affected, with 1 in every 2 affected by the ‘pregnancy mask’ to some extent. As hormones are implicated in the development of melasma, it is no surprise that the use of oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy increases an individual’s risk of suffering from the discolouration. Melasma develops more frequently in those with darker skin tones, so women of colour are at greater risk. Studies suggest those with a family history of the condition are also more at risk, as around 60% of sufferers have one or more blood relatives with the condition.