Cosmetic Dermatology and Hair Care

Melasma, derived from the Greek word ‘Melas’ meaning black and ‘Chloazein’ meaning green, is an acquired symmetric hypermelanotic condition that has a striking appearance and resultant mental impact. There are a number of norms linked with melasma including role of ultraviolet exposure, occurrence in pregnancy, female predisposition and even its nature through the earliest report of melasma as ‘Lihei Ban’ in Chinese medicine meaning persistent condition. Much of research focused on etiology is highlighted however a consensus is lacking. The peculiarity in lesional skin is the presence of hyper functional melanocytes that possess increased expression of estrogen receptors and PDKZ1 domains that are involved in increased melanogenesis. The rather indirect roles exhibited by UV light, drugs, anaemia and systemic conditions may be noted.