Melasma: Update on Epidemiology, Clinical Presentation, Assessment, and Scoring

Abstract

Melasma is a common dermatosis, presenting as ill-defined light to dark brown pigmentation of photo-exposed areas, most commonly the face. Its exact prevalence is unknown, but it is commoner in intermediate skin phototypes and women of reproductive age. Its treatment and monitoring have significance due to its chronic recalcitrant history and psychosocial impact. Various indices and tools like the melasma area and severity Index (MASI), melasma severity index (MSI), and Melasma Quality of Life Scale (MELASQoL) have been formulated for measuring severity and treatment response. In this review, particular emphasis has been laid on melasma's epidemiological and clinical aspects and its assessment and scoring.