Caused by an imbalance of hormones, melasma is the result of excess melanin being deposited in the dermal or epidermal layers of the skin. Your skin naturally darkens, or tans, in response to sun exposure, due to the pigment melanin. In women with melasma, the imbalance of melanin in certain areas of the face cause the dark patches to form.

The majority of melasma cases occur during pregnancy or with oral contraceptive use, but women who are taking hormone replacement therapy can also develop melasma. Between 50% and 70% of pregnant women experience melasma, usually during the second or third trimester. Melasma seems to run in families — if your mother and grandmother had melasma, you are more likely to develop it.

Control melasma and face a brighter future.

Melasma is often brushed aside as a condition that will “go away on its own.” Not true. Melasma gets worse as time goes on due to day-to-day sun exposure. Fortunately, there is effective treatment that will help fade melasma patches. If you have melasma or have had it in the past, you need to protect your skin from the sun. Even minimal daily exposure can cause your melasma to return or can darken existing spots. Wear a sunscreen every day with an SPF of 30 or greater. Also try to shield your face from the sun with hats or visors.

Talk to your dermatologist about getting started on melasma treatment – and get smart about sun exposure to keep your melasma in check.

If you don't have a dermatologist, locate one in your area with the DermFinder.