Skin Disorders Guide

What is this condition?

Melasma disease is also called cholasma. In this disorder, patches of skin become discolored because of excessive deposits of melanin, the pigment in skin and hair. Mask of pregnancy, a folk name for a condition not always related to pregnancy (it sometimes occurs in men), poses a serious cosmetic problem. Although it tends to occur equally in all races, the light-brown color it produces is most evident in dark-skinned whites. Mask of pregnancy may be chronic but is never life-threatening.

What causes it?

The cause of mask of pregnancy is unknown, but it may be related to the increased hormonal levels associated with pregnancy, ovarian cancer, or use of oral contraceptives. Use of other drugs, such as Dilantin and Mesantoin, may also contribute to this disorder. Exposure to sunlight stimulates mask of pregnancy, but the disorder may develop without any apparent predisposing factor.

What are its symptoms?

Typically, this disorder produces large, brown, irregular patches, sym­metrically distributed on the forehead, cheeks, and sides of the nose. Less commonly, these patches may occur on the neck, upper lip, and temples.

How is it diagnosed?

Observation of characteristic dark patches on the face usually confirms mask of pregnancy. The doctor will review the person’s history to uncover the presence of risk factors.

How is it Malasma Treated?

Malasma treatments consists primarily of applying bleaching agents containing 2% to 4% hydroquinone to inhibit melanin synthesis. This medication is applied twice daily for up to 8 weeks. Additional measures include avoiding exposure to sunlight, using sunscreens, and discontinuing oral contraceptives.