Melasma (also known as "Chloasma faciei" or the mask of pregnancy when present in pregnant women) is a tan or dark skin discoloration. Facial peel with alpha hydroxyacids or chemical peels with glycolic acid is used for the treatment

What Causes Melasma?
Genetics, hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, and extrinsic factors such as sun exposure are thought to be the cause of Melasma. Hormones stimulate the production of melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in our skin, as they become exposed by the sun. The increased melanin production causes the spotting we see with Melasma.

Treatments
There are a number of treatments available for melasma at oakridge laser and skin care cllinic. Some include:
* Laser Treatment to remove the discoloration in the skin
* Chemical Peels

What does Melasma look like?
Melasma will show itself as brown patches usually on the upper lip, cheekbones, or forehead. This discoloration can also be found on the sides of the neck, chin, nose, or any other sun-exposed areas of the face and body.

Are there any other names for melasma?
Melasma is also known as chloasma, or "mask of pregnancy".

Who is most likely to be affected?
Melasma is most often seen in women who are pregnant or taking birth control pills. Menopause, hormonal imbalances, or ovarian disorders may also trigger the development of melasma. Sun exposure in the form of ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) is a large factor contributing to the development of melasma, which makes anyone who spends extended time in direct sunlight vulnerable to melasma