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Melasma is a common skin condition of dark, discolored patches often on the cheeks, forehead, bridge of the nose, chin, forearms, and neck. The condition is much more common in women than men, though men can get it too. Darker-skinned individuals are more at risk than those with fair skin. It is not clear what causes melasma but sun exposure likely contributes because ultraviolet rays affect the cells that control pigment (melanocytes). Some believe estrogen and progesterone, stress, and thyroid disease can trigger this skin condition. Melasma is not harmful, but many people feel self-conscious about the way it looks.