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@article{208676,
        author = {Dr. Devanshi Doshi and Dr. Rajesh Sanjha and Dr. Vani Oza},
        title = {PSYCHOSOCIAL BURDEN OF MELASMA IN WOMEN: A REVIEW OF ITS IMPACT ON QUALITY OF LIFE AND SELF-PERCEPTION},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {13},
        number = {4},
        pages = {2178-2183},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=208676},
        abstract = {Background
Melasma is a common acquired disorder of facial hyperpigmentation that predominantly affects women and is characterized by symmetrical brown to grey-brown macules and patches, particularly over the malar regions, forehead and chin. Although melasma is medically benign, its visibility and chronic, recurrent nature may result in substantial psychosocial consequences. The condition may affect self-perception, confidence, social interaction and overall quality of life.
Objective
To review the available literature concerning the psychosocial burden of melasma in women, with particular emphasis on quality of life, self-esteem, self-perception, emotional well-being and social functioning.
Methods
A narrative review of published literature concerning melasma, quality of life, psychological impact, self-perception and psychosocial burden was undertaken. Relevant clinical studies and validated assessment tools used to evaluate quality of life in patients with melasma were considered.
Results
The available literature indicates that melasma can have a significant psychosocial impact despite its benign physical nature. Facial pigmentation may influence appearance-related self-consciousness, emotional well-being, social confidence and interpersonal functioning. Women may report embarrassment, frustration, dissatisfaction with appearance and concerns regarding how their facial pigmentation is perceived by others. The psychosocial burden may be influenced by disease severity, visibility, chronicity, recurrence and treatment response. Dermatology-specific quality-of-life instruments, particularly the Melasma Quality of Life Scale (MELASQoL), have been developed to quantify these effects.
Conclusion
Melasma should not be regarded solely as a cosmetic pigmentation disorder. Its psychological and social consequences may substantially influence quality of life, particularly among women. Incorporating patient-reported outcomes alongside objective measures such as mMASI may provide a more comprehensive assessment of treatment response. Future studies should evaluate both the physical and psychosocial dimensions of melasma.},
        keywords = {Melasma; women; psychosocial burden; quality of life; self-perception; self-esteem; psychological impact; MELASQoL; facial pigmentation; dermatology.},
        month = {September},
        }