Busting the myths about ‘pregnancy mask’

“Contrary to the belief that melasma is an issue experienced only by pregnant women, the skin condition, which appears as irregular patches of pigmentation on the skin, can impact a variety of people,” says Dr Catriona Maybury consultant dermatologist for Dermatica.

“It’s a common condition, which is most commonly seen on the cheek, forehead, upper lip, nose and chin and mostly affects women.

“It is more common in darker skin and there is no one single cause – many factors increase your chance of developing melasma. Firstly, sunlight triggers pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) to become activated.

“The hormones oestrogen and progesterone can also increase activity of these cells, making it more common in pregnancy and when women take the oral contraceptive Pill and HRT, as well as in those with thyroid or liver problems or taking certain medications, such as antiepileptics.

“There is also a genetic risk – one in three people with melasma have someone else in their family who has it too.”

Because sun exposure plays a large part in the development of melasma, also known as pregnancy mask, try to protect your face by wearing hats, sunglasses and sunscreen daily.

“Our topical treatment involves a triple therapy formula containing fluocinolone (a steroid), tretinoin (a topical retinoid) and hydroquinone,” says Dr Maybury. “Improvement will be gradual so take a selfie without make-up before you start and another on a monthly basis over three to six months to monitor any progress.”

You can sign up for a Dermatica consultation at dermatica.co.uk/treatments/melasma