Chloasma, or melasma or the mask of pregnancy when present in pregnant women is a tan or dark facial skin discoloration. Although it can affect anyone, chloasma (melasma) is particularly common in women, especially pregnant women and those who are taking oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy medications.
The symptoms of chloasma, melasma are dark, irregular patches commonly found on the upper cheek, nose, lips, and forehead. These patches often develop gradually over time. Melasma does not cause any other symptoms beyond the cosmetic discoloration.