Melasma is a dark skin discoloration usually on the face and sometimes on the neck and forearms.

Causes

• Pregnancy
• Oral contraceptives
• Hormonal replacement therapy
• Genetic predisposition
• Allergic reactions to medications and cosmetics
• Exposure to sun

Symptoms

• Gray brown patches on the skin

Treatment
Symptoms are only cosmetic in nature and disappear gradually by:

• Stopping triggers like oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy
• After giving birth
• Topical creams and depigmentation agents
• Facial or chemical peels
• Laser treatment in certain cases

Prevention

• Avoiding exposure to sun
• Using sunscreen
• Using protective clothing and hats before stepping out in the sun.