What causes melasma?

No one is really certain exactly what causes melasma. Once melasma is triggered, it typically shows up as dark brown or gray-brown patches, which are due to the body producing too much melanin, a natural substance that gives color to our hair, skin and eyes.

If your body makes too much melanin, your skin gets darker. When your skin darkens, it’s because hyperpigmentation has occurred; thus, melasma is a condition marked by hyperpigmentation of the skin.