AskDocDoc
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7, 100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime. No sign-up needed.
Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #16583
46 days ago
79

mask of sikkim - #16583

Shanaya

I am just trying to figure out what’s going on with me. A few weeks ago, I started noticing a dark patch on my left cheek that seemed to come out of nowhere. At first, I thought it was just a weird tan or something, but it’s been spreading and sometimes has this weird rough texture. My friend kept jokingly referring to it as the "mask of sikkim," but honestly, I started to worry when I looked it up online and saw that it could be something serious. I've tried all kinds of creams and some home remedies, but nothing seems to help. I don't have any other symptoms, but I feel really self-conscious about it. I'm 34 and have always had clear skin until now. Has anyone else experienced this "mask of sikkim" or know what could be causing it? Could it be hormonal changes or something to do with my diet? I was eating pretty healthy, but then got stressed and started binge eating junk food. If it is a condition like that, what can I do to get rid of it? Should I see a dermatologist, or could a regular doc help? Really hoping for some useful insights because I'm getting desperate here trying to hide it!

FREE
Question is closed
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image asteriksCTA image

Doctors’ responses

The pattern you’re describing, a spreading dark patch with occasional rough texture on your cheeks, does sound like it could be melasma, often humorously referred to with terms like “mask of pregnancy,” but not necessarily limited to pregnancy or hormonal changes associated with it. Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by brown or gray-brown patches, often appearing on the face. It’s typically associated with factors such as hormone fluctuations, sun exposure, or genetic predisposition. While stress or dietary changes you’ve mentioned could indirectly affect skin appearance, they aren’t the classic triggers for melasma. Hormonal changes might also play a role, especially if recently you’ve been on birth control pills or there are changes in your menstrual cycle. Sun exposure without adequate protection can often exacerbate melasma, given UV rays increase melanin production. A good first step would be to see a dermatologist; they’re well-equipped to identify whether this is melasma or another skin condition. In the meantime, using a broad-spectrum sunscreen even when indoors might help, as might avoiding known triggers like direct sunlight or heat. Over-the-counter creams that contain hydroquinone, a skin-lightening agent, are sometimes used, but you’ll want professional confirmation first to avoid potential skin irritation or misdiagnosis. While a regular doctor can offer a prelimenary opinion, seeing a dermatologist would provide more precise guidance with optimal treatment options.

10625 answered questions
84% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
FREE! Ask a Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymously

Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.

About our doctors

Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions