What is commonly referred to as the "mask of pregnancy"?

The term commonly referred to as the "mask of pregnancy" relates to hyperpigmentation that typically occurs during pregnancy, known as chloasma or melasma. This condition manifests as dark, irregular patches of pigmentation on the face, often affecting the forehead, cheeks, and upper lip. It is primarily triggered by hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, especially fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, which increase melanin production in the skin.

Chloasma can be exacerbated by sun exposure, but its core association is with pregnancy hormones rather than sun damage or age-related skin changes. The specific pigmentation patterns are what give it the moniker of a "mask," as they can create a mask-like appearance on the face. This differentiation is key in understanding how these types of pigmentation are distinct from aging spots, sun damage, and freckles, which are related to other factors such as aging, UV exposure, and genetic predispositions. Understanding this context helps clarify why chloasma and melasma are the correct terms that define this condition during pregnancy.