Description
Melasma is skin that is darker than the surrounding skin. It usually develops on the face and is related to sunlight exposure. Hormone replacement therapy, birth control pills and pregnancy are associated with melasma. It is much more common in women than men.
Symptoms
Symptoms include areas of darker skin on the temples, forehead, cheeks and upper lip.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis can usually be made based on exam findings and historical information.
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Dermatology, Plastic Surgery, Family Practice, Telemedicine Dermatology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis can usually be made based on exam findings and historical information.
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Dermatology, Plastic Surgery, Family Practice, Telemedicine Dermatology
Treatment
Treatments include medicine (hydroquinone, azelaic acid cream, tretinoin), chemical peels and intense pulsed light therapy.