Melasma

Melasma causes harmless but sometimes bothersome brown or grey-brown patches, usually on the face. Sunlight and visible light often maintain it; treatment takes months and recurrence is common.

• Flat light-brown, dark-brown or grey-brown patches without scaling.
• Often a symmetrical pattern on the cheeks, forehead, nose, upper lip or chin.
• Seek shade, wear a wide-brimmed hat and use light protection even on cloudy days.
• Apply sunscreen generously and evenly and reapply after sweating, swimming or towel-drying.
• Make an appointment if the diagnosis is uncertain or a patch is one-sided, thickened, scaly, painful or bleeding.
• For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.