Condition guide

Melasma

Also known as Jhaiyan, Chloasma, Mask of pregnancy.

Five ceramic dishes of powdered pigment in a gradient from pale cream to deep umber on cream linen

In short

Melasma is a common pigmentation condition that causes brown or grey-brown patches, usually on the cheeks, forehead, nose and upper lip. It is linked to sunlight and visible light, hormones such as pregnancy and the contraceptive pill, and family tendency, and it is especially common in Indian women. It can be controlled well with daily sun protection and treatment from a dermatologist, but it tends to come back, so care is long term.

Typical signs

Symmetrical brown or grey-brown patches on both cheeks
Patches on the forehead, nose, upper lip or chin
Patches that darken after sun exposure or in summer
No itching, scaling or pain in the patches

When to see a dermatologist

You are not sure whether the patches are melasma or another type of pigmentation
Patches are spreading or getting darker despite sunscreen
You are pregnant or breastfeeding and want safe options
You have used a cream with a steroid in it and the skin has become thin, red or sensitive

Signs vary from person to person and several skin conditions look alike. Only an examination can confirm a diagnosis.

Terms to know

Melasma: A common condition causing brown or grey-brown patches, usually on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip. Sun exposure and hormones are major triggers.
Melanin: The pigment that gives skin, hair and eyes their colour and helps protect skin from UV damage.
Melanocyte: A cell in the base of the epidermis that makes melanin.
Hyperpigmentation: Areas of skin that are darker than the surrounding skin because of extra melanin. Melasma and dark spots after acne are common examples.
SPF: Sun protection factor. A measure of how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which cause sunburn.
PA rating: A rating used on Asian sunscreens to show the level of UVA protection, from PA+ to PA++++. More plus signs mean more UVA protection.
Broad spectrum: A sunscreen label meaning the product protects against both UVB rays, which cause burning, and UVA rays, which cause tanning, ageing and pigmentation.
Wood's lamp: A handheld ultraviolet lamp used in the clinic to examine the skin. It helps assess pigment changes, vitiligo and some infections.
Topical corticosteroid: An anti-inflammatory medicine applied to the skin. Effective when prescribed, but misuse, especially in mixed fairness creams, can cause serious side effects.

Full glossary

3D Skin ExplorerSee where it starts: the melanocytesOpen the interactive model Research libraryGuidelines and studies on pigmentation5 entries

Read the guides

Full, referenced articles on melasma written for Indian skin, with answers to common questions.

Pigmentation9 min read

Melasma Treatment for Indian Skin: What Works and What to Avoid

Melasma is long lasting facial pigmentation triggered by sun, heat and hormones. Learn safe treatments for Indian skin and how to prevent it coming back.

Updated 26 October 2026

Women's Skin9 min read

Skin Changes in Pregnancy and Pregnancy Safe Skincare

Pregnancy often brings melasma, acne and stretch marks. Cleanser, moisturiser and sunscreen are safe; retinoids and some strong actives should be avoided.

Updated 26 October 2026

Worried about melasma?

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This page is a short summary for general education and does not replace a consultation with a qualified dermatologist. Do not start, stop or change any medicine based on this page. Read the full medical disclaimer.