Melasma & Pregnancy Mask: Understanding and Treating This Particular Form of Pigmentation
Following our collaboration with dermatologist@dermatodrey, we wanted to address a topic that is often misunderstood but very common: melasma, also known as pregnancy mask. This specific form of hyperpigmentation affects many women and deserves special attention.
Do you have symmetrical brown spots on your cheeks, forehead, or upper lip? You may have melasma, a common pigmentary condition, particularly among women.
Often called “pregnancy mask” when it occurs during pregnancy, melasma is closely linked to hormones, but also sun exposure… and it can be very difficult to get rid of without the right treatment.
In this video, @dermatodrey, a dermatologist and content creator, helps you understand this pigmentation disorder and offers clear, supportive advice on how to better manage it.
What is melasma?
The melasma is a form of excessive pigmentation that primarily affects:
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the women between the ages of 20 and 45,
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the areas of the face exposed to the sun (cheeks, forehead, upper lip, nose),
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people with medium to dark skin, but it can affect all skin tones.
It manifests as brown or grayish spots, diffuse, often symmetrical, that develop gradually… and recur easily.
Melasma during pregnancy: a hormonal form of melasma
During pregnancy, hormonal changes increase the skin's sensitivity to light. As a result, the skin reacts by producing excess melanin, which causes the well-known “pregnancy mask”.
But be aware: melasma can also appear outside of pregnancy, as a result of:
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of the birth control pill,
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due to natural hormonal changes,
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or simply sun exposure in a person who is predisposed to it.
The triggering (and aggravating) role of the sun
The sun is the number one enemy of melasma. Even after treatment, just a few minutes of exposure can be enough to cause it to reappear.
That is why daily sun protection is absolutely essential :
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SPF 50+, every day, even on cloudy days,
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Reapply regularly if exposed directly.
Can melasma be eliminated?
Melasma doesn’t go away easily. You have to be patient… and persistent. But many women manage to significantly reduce their pigmentation with the right skincare routine:
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Use a targeted dark spot treatment
Active ingredients such as niacinamide,tranexamic acid, andalpha-arbutin or bakuchiol help regulate melanin production and gradually even out the complexion, without causing irritation.
At NUHANCIAM, the Anti-Dark Spot Power Factor 4 Serum is a solution specifically formulated for this type of stubborn dark spots, featuring a gradual, gentle, and effective approach.
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Never skip the SPF
It’s the essential shield for preventing recurrence. Without SPF, even the best anti-dark spot treatment won’t be effective.
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Avoid abrasive treatments without medical advice
Melasma is sensitive: exfoliation treatments that are too harsh or unsuitable can worsen pigmentation. Dermatological follow-up is recommended for severe cases.
The Expert's Perspective – Dermatodrey
In this video, Audrey explains:
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what melasma is and how to identify it,
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why he is often treated badly,
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and the best habits to adopt in your daily life to care for it in the long term.
▶️ Watch the video:
“Everything You Need to Know About Melasma and the ‘Pregnancy Mask’”
Key Takeaways
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Melasma is a hormone-related and photosensitive condition.
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It is not related to inflammationbut rather to a melanocyte dysfunction.
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The sun makes everything worse, even after it has disappeared from view.
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A gentle routine, targeted anti-dark spot treatment + sun protectionis the key.
