Melasma is a disorder of color producing cells in the upper layer of the skin. These cells are called melanocytes (pronounced as Mee-Lay-No-Sites). In melasma, these cells start to produce more pigment (color). Sun rays and hormones during pregnancy or the hormones in contraceptive pills can cause melasma in some cases. However, in most cases melasma is idiopathic – meaning that a cause can not be identified. It is a common myth in Pakistan that this pigmentation is caused by iron deficiency and many doctors precribe oral iron tablets in such patients. This is however not supported by the scientific evidence.

Melasma is a harmless disorder. It is not related to cancer and it does not involve internal organs. largely just occurs on the face but may appear on the neck and arms as well. It may continue to worsen if the amount of sunlight exposure is not controlled.