How can melasma be prevented and treated?

  Melasma is an acquired light or dark brown pigmentation that occurs on exposed areas, most commonly the face, and is caused by exposure to sunlight. It may be associated with pregnancy, oral contraceptives or certain medications such as phenytoinamide, or may be idiopathic.  Because of the obvious cosmetic problems, melasma is a distressing condition for both men and women.  Prevention: It is important that patients use a sunscreen containing a titanium dioxide/zinc oxide opaque sunscreen every morning, as the spectrum of action of hyperpigmentation extends to visible light, and even strong transparent shades (high SPF) blocking visible light are completely ineffective.  Treatment is a challenge. It takes 1-2 years. Topical topical application of Thousand White (hydroquinone cream), 0.025% retinoic acid cream, Corexit (10% hydroxyacetic acid). Laser treatment can be chosen from high energy Pixel 2940 beam laser, Q-switched Nd:YAG laser.