Misunderstood and Often Untreated: Melasma, or 'Pano,' Affects Estimated Six Million Women

Research shows Melasma negatively affects quality of life for Hispanic women, often worsens, most troubling in fall months

Melasma affects an estimated six million American women and is one of the most common skin pigmentation conditions worsened by our baja sun exposure. This skin disorder is characterized by dark spots or blotches on the face, forehead and neck. Although melasma is common in women of all races, Latina women have the highest prevalence of the condition.

Research documents that non-white patients have a 30 percent higher probability of pigmentation disorders than white patients. While 50 or 70 percent of pregnant women will exhibit some degree of melasma, the incidence of melasma in Hispanic pregnant women is as high as 80 percent. Of the Hispanic women who develop the condition during pregnancy, 30 percent will have the condition for a lifetime without proper treatment.

Melasma is known as "Pano" in Mexico and "manchas" (stains) or "mascara del embarazo" (mask of pregnancy) in Central and South America. The condition has negative connotations in Latin cultures; it is commonly considered to be disfiguring and is often associated with poor nutrition.

New research published in the October 2006 issue of the Journal of Dermatological Treatment states that the condition has a significant negative impact on quality of life issues, affecting social life, emotional well-being, physical health and even money matters. Melasma has been proven to pose a substantial emotional and psychosocial burden on the women who have it, It changes the way a person sees themselves. It changes the way others see that person. The condition literally changes a person's ability to face the world.

Melasma may be caused by a hormonal imbalance, the use of oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy and is commonly referred to as the 'mask of pregnancy. Genetics also plays a role. However, sun exposure can trigger or worsen the appearance of the condition. Fall is an ideal time to schedule an appointment with us to address any pigmentation issues and for an overall check-up and skin assessment. We recommend anyone with the condition call for an appointment to discuss your treatment options.

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