What Is Melasma?1–3
Symmetric Hyperpigmentation
Darkened patches of skin usually occurring symmetrically on both sides of the face
Appearance
Irregular light-to-dark brown macules
Macules are uneven spots or patches of discolouration
Location Mainly on photo-exposed areas of the face, such as Cheeks Upper lips Forehead
Symptoms
Melasma is asymptomatic. It does not cause any physical discomfort or symptoms other than the visible pigmentation
Classification of Melasma2
Melasma can be characterised by the depth of melanin deposition in the skin layers and divided into three histological types
Epidermal
Dermal Increased melanin
Mixed Combined histologic features of epidermal and dermal types
Prevalence of Melasma3–11
High Prevalence in Asia
More common in some populations than
East and Southeast Asians Chinese, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, Thai
Statistics
2 in 5 present with melasma
Between 4.7–18% prevalence in Chinese females
Age of Onset Varies from 20–40 years old
Who Is At Risk?1,3,5,9,10,12
Melasma development is attributed to multiple factors Genetic Predisposition
More common in females
Beige and light to dark brown skin types (Fitzpatrick skin types III to V)
Family
Impact on Quality of Life13–15
Reduced
