Melasma is a condition that causes tan or dark skin
discoloration on the face. Because of it’s association with
pregnant women, it is sometimes called the “mask of pregnancy.”
Melasma is marked by a change in pigmentation that occurs
primarily in sun-exposed areas of the skin. This condition is
exacerbated by UV exposure, pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and
certain anti-epilepsy drugs. Melasma is more prevalent in women,
especially in women of child-bearing age. However, up to 10% of
cases have been reported in men. While all races are affected,
there is predominance among Latinos and Asians. Melasma is more
apparent during and after periods of sun exposure and less
obvious in winter months, when sun exposure is lacking. Melasma
most commonly appears as large blotches of pigmentation (as
opposed to freckles) in a centrofacial pattern involving the
cheeks, forehead, upper lip, nose, and chin. Less common are the
malar pattern, involving the cheeks and nose, and the mandibular
pattern, involving the the sides o