Melasma is caused by melanocyte cells in the epidermis, the lowest layer of the skin, producing more melanin or pigment than necessary on the epidermis, causing brown patches that are clearly visible, spreading widely and with unclear boundaries. Melasma can be divided into 3 types : shallow melasma, deep melasma, mixed melasma.
- Superficial melasma occurs easily, is at the epidermis (outer layerof the skin), has a brown color with clear edges, and can be treated and faded by applying sunscreen or mild melasma cream.
- Deep melasma occurs at the dermis, deeper than the epidermis, has a purple-blue color, has unclear boundaries, and is more difficult to treat than shallow melasma and is rarely completely cured.
- Mixed melasma occurs at both the epidermis and dermis. The center is usually dark, indicating melasma in the dermis, while the edges are usually lighter, indicating melasma in the epidermis. This type of melasma is also the most common type.