Melasma is nothing but round pigmentation typically over face. It is very common in females. Rarely it occurs in males. It occurs due to abnormal & excess collection of melanin pigment in particular area due to unknown cause. Melanin is a pigment which gives our skin its color. Our complexion whether light or dark depends on the amount of melanin present in skin. Pigmented area is dark in color because excess melanin is abnormally located in that area. Early treatment of melasma is necessary because melasma worsens over period & it goes deep & deep in layers of skin, becomes darker & difficult to treat. Exact cause of melasma is unknown. Melasma is triggered by sun exposure. Actually it is difficult to treat but at least we have best treatments to improve it & make it lighter & lighter with our more advance treatments.

• Exact cause of melasma is unknown. But melasma usually occurs during pregnancy, shortly after child birth & after taking any.
• Any inflammation on skin due to trauma, any infection, any allergy on skin, sun burn, acne (pimples), application of harsh cosmetics or any other chemicals etc can increase melasma
• Sun exposure also increases melasma
• Application of hair dye or any other cosmetics can increase melasma.
• Sometimes it is genetic & heredity also.Symptoms-Round light or dark brown colored asymptomatic patches appeared on cheeks, nose, forehead or chin.Diagnostics-No any special diagnostic techniques are required.

• Medical – Not work
• Peels – Best & first line of treatment for melasma. Results vary individually & depth of melasma.
• Cosmelan / yellow peel – It is for resistant deepest melasma. Result is very good.

• Avoid stress & self medication. Avoid steroid & other unknown strong creams.
• Sun protection is very important. Use good quality medicated sunscreens as prescribed by doctor.
• There is no diet restriction. Because there is no evidence which claim that any particular diet can create or increase melasma. Normally good vegetables& fruits can be considered.
• Always take expert opinion for correct diagnosis & treatment.