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Illustrated Health Encyclopedia
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Ency. home > Disease > M > Melasma

Melasma   

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Chloasma; Mask of pregnancy; Pregnancy mask

Definition:

A dark skin discoloration found on sun-exposed areas of the face.

Causes and Risks

Melasma is a very common skin disorder. Though it can affect anyone, it is most commonly found in young women with brownish skin tones.

Melasma is often associated with the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. It is especially common in pregnant women, amongst those who are taking oral contraceptives (the "Pill"), and amongst women taking hormone replacement therapy (such as Prempro) during menopause.

Sun exposure is also a strong risk factor for melasma. It is particularly common in tropical climates.

Ency. home > Disease > M > Melasma

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