Chloasma is also referred to as melasma or “mask of pregnancy”. It is  the  dark, splotchy spots that  appear on your face during pregnancy and disappear a couple of months after delivery. It  is also common in women taking birth control or on  Hormone Replacement Therapy HRT during menopause. These spots are as a result of hyperpigmentation and usually appear on the forehead and cheeks. This condition is common in about 50% of all pregnant women.
 

 
During pregnancy, your body produces more hormones. This results in an increased production of the skin pigment , melanin. Chloasma will disappear after delivery when the hormone level returns to normal and the body stops producing excess melanin.

What can I do to prevent or minimize chloasma ?

 
The best way to prevent  or minimize chloasma is to avoid or protect yourself from the sun.

You should wear sunscreen of at least SPF of 30 whether it is sunny or not. You should use sunscreen anytime you go out even if it’s just for a few minutes. This is because you  can get exposed to significant amount of ultra violet rays by just walking to your car.

You can also wear wide-brimmed hat and protective clothing when you go outside to minimize sun exposure. Limit the time you spend outside especially 10 am to 2 pm .

Chloasma usually fades several months after stopping hormone medicine or therapy or pregnancy ends. If you are not satisfied with  the fading of the spots, contact your dermatologist.
 
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