PG
1
1
Mild severity
· Dermatology
Melasma
Dark patches on face · Pigment overdrive
Sun and hormones drive melanocytes to over-produce pigment, leaving symmetrical dark patches on cheeks, forehead, lips. Sun protection is non-negotiable.
At a glance
- Prevalence
- Common in Indian women
- Typical age
- Reproductive age
- Outlook
- Manageable, recurs
- System
- Skin
Reviewed by a verified Dermatology doctor
What causes it
Causes
- UV and visible light
- Pregnancy ('mask of pregnancy')
- Oral contraceptives
- Genetics, dark phototypes
- Thyroid disease
How it feels
Symptoms & effects
- Symmetrical brown patches on cheeks
- Forehead and upper lip darkening
- Darkens with sun, lightens in winter
- Often returns after treatment
How it’s treated
Treatment & cure
- Daily mineral SPF 50+ (visible light too)
- Hydroquinone 4% short-course
- Tranexamic acid orally
- Chemical peels, lasers (with care)
- Cysteamine cream
Staying ahead
Prevention
- Strict sun protection year-round
- Discuss OCP alternatives if triggering
- Treat thyroid disease
- Avoid aggressive scrubs
Do’s
- Apply tinted mineral sunscreen daily
- Reapply every 3 hours outdoors
- Use a wide-brimmed hat
- Be patient — months to clear
Don’ts
- Use strong bleaching creams from chemist
- Take long sun walks at noon
- Use harsh exfoliants
- Believe one laser will cure forever
See a doctor immediately if
Symptoms are sudden or severe, getting worse despite home care, or interfering with sleep, work or daily life. Don’t self-diagnose from the internet — book a verified clinician below.
Top specialists
See all dermatology doctors Top 4 doctors for Melasma
Ranked by patient rating, years of experience and review volume. All verified by MediConsult’s clinical team.
VM
2
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GT
3
3
DG
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Disclaimer ·
This article is educational and reviewed by clinicians, but it cannot replace an in-person assessment.
Medication doses, prevention advice and treatment choices vary by person. Always confirm with a doctor before acting on anything here.