Melasma is a brown discoloration of the face most often seen in women. This change in pigmentation tends to get worse in the summer when exposed to the sun’s harmful rays and often fades in the winter months. Pregnancy is the most common cause of melasma. Women who are taking oral contraceptives are also at risk.
The Center for Dermatologic Surgery treats melasma with a prescription bleaching cream combined with other topicals in addition to a series of chemical peels. Since sunlight is a major factor in the development of melasma, it is imperative to continue to avoid the sun, wear protective clothing and apply liberal amounts of sunscreen.