Epidemiology

The prevalence of melasma in the general population remains unknown. However, it has been reported for some specific populations: for example, in Latin-American women the prevalence was found to be 8.8%, and in pregnant women up to 50%, and it is considered to be the third most common pigmentary disorder in African-Americans.[1][5][6] Overall, melasma is seen more commonly in people of Asian, Hispanic, and African-American descent.[6]

The condition is seen most commonly in women (who account for approximately 90% of people with melasma), particularly those with darker skin (Fitzpatrick type III, IV, V, or VI).[7][8][9] Ultraviolet (UV) light intensifies this hyperpigmentation; melasma is therefore seen more frequently in people who live in areas of intense UV radiation, and it occurs most commonly in the summer.[2] The age of onset is between 20 and 29 years in 50% of patients.[10]

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