When skin cells become damaged or unhealthy, melanin production is affected resulting in blotchy, uneven areas, patches of brown to gray discolouration or freckling. Increased melanin production results in hyperpigmentation, while too little melanin causes conditions like vitiligo, which is light patches of skin.

Melasma is one such skin pigmentation condition commonly experienced by women (especially during pregnancy; hence the term “mask of pregnancy”), that is triggered by both sun

exposure and hormonal changes of estrogen and progesterone that causes the simulation of melanocytes or pigment-producing cells to produce more melanin pigments. Genetic disposition plays a role in this condition, whereby chances increase if a close relative suffers from this condition. It presents as brown patches on sun-exposed areas of the face, like the cheeks, bridge of nose, forehead and upper lip. Young women with brownish skin tones and who spend time outdoors are more likely to be affected by melasma.