Melasma is a skin condition that causes brown or blue-gray patches or freckle-like spots on the skin, especially on the face, neck, and arms. The exact cause of melasma is not well understood, but researchers have discovered that when someone has melasma, the cells that give skin its color (melanocytes) tend to be more active. The following are some of the possible triggers that can cause melasma:

• Sunlight: When sunlight hits our skin, it triggers the body to produce more melanin, which explains why melasma develops on skin that gets the most sunlight.
• Hormones: Fluctuations in certain hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, can cause melasma, which is why it commonly occurs during pregnancy and when taking hormonal medications.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as anti-seizure medications, birth control pills, and medications that make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, can trigger melasma in some people.
• Stress: Some research findings suggest that stress can trigger melasma by causing the body to make more of the hormone cortisol.
• Genetics: Genetic predisposition may be a major factor in the development of melasma, and it is more common in females than in males.

It is important to note that melasma is harmless and not painful or uncomfortable in any way. While there is no cure for melasma, there are treatments available that can help reduce the appearance of the patches, such as topical steroids, chemical peels, and dermabrasion. It is also important to protect the skin from the sun by wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen with a high SPF.