General dermatology

Melasma

Melasma, also called chloasma, causes brown or greyish patches, mainly on the forehead, cheeks, upper lip and chin. It is very common in women and is not dangerous, but it tends to come back and is best treated with a well-planned approach.

Why does it appear?

Three main factors play a role: sun exposure, hormonal changes (pregnancy, contraceptives) and genetic predisposition. Visible light and heat can also make it worse, which is why it often darkens in summer.

How is it treated?

The first step is daily broad-spectrum sun protection, all year round. From there, the dermatologist may prescribe depigmenting creams, gentle chemical peels and, in selected cases, laser or light-based treatments. Treatment is tailored to each skin type to avoid the opposite effect.

When to see a dermatologist

If new patches appear, change shape or colour, or do not improve with sun protection, a dermatological assessment is advisable to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other lesions.

This information does not replace a medical consultation and is not intended to encourage self-diagnosis.