What is this brown pigment on my face?
Melasma or chloasma is a brownish discoloration of the face that occurs most often in women. Men can also develop this problem. The brown color often fades in winter and gets worse in the summer.

What causes it?
Pregnancy (mask of pregnancy) is the most common cause of melasma. Women who are taking oral contraceptives are at risk of developing melasma. Sunlight is a major factor in the development of melasma.

How do I treat it?
A strong sunscreen such as Elta Block, Ombrelle, and Shade Lotion SPF 45, etc., should be applied to the face each morning. Hydroquinone 4% cream (available by prescription) applied to the face twice a day (in the morning before applying sun screen and later in the day) is the main treatment for melasma. Retin-A cream applied to the entire face each night before bed has been shown to be an effective treatment for melasma. Dr. Guccione and Anne Carlisle, FNP, can also prescribe a combination of prescription medications that may be effective in treating your melasma. Most importantly, however, avoid intense sunlight! This brings out more brown discoloration. It is your body's natural protection response from the sun.