Chinese Journal of Dermatology ›› 2025, Vol. 58 ›› Issue (9): 797-800.doi: 10.35541/cjd.20250004

• Expert Commentary • Previous Articles     Next Articles

New insights into the pathogenesis and clinical therapeutic strategies of melasma

Zhang Chengfeng, Jin Shanglin   

  1. Department of Dermatology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200040, China
  • Received:2025-01-06 Revised:2025-03-15 Online:2025-09-15 Published:2025-09-01
  • Contact: Zhang Chengfeng E-mail:e3dangdang@hotmail.com
  • Supported by:
    National Natural Science Foundation of China (82173421, 82473523); National Key Research and Development Program of China (2023YFC2509001); Shanghai Key and Major Research Center Construction Project (2023ZZ02018); Shanghai Hospital Development Center Project (SHDC22022302)

Abstract: 【Abstract】 The etiology and pathogenesis of melasma have not been fully elucidated. This article summarizes the recent research progress on melasma, explores the roles of photoaging, skin barrier dysfunction, mast cell activation, sex hormone fluctuations, and circadian rhythm disturbances in its pathogenesis, with the aim of providing new directions for its clinical prevention and treatment. With a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of melasma, future therapeutic strategies are expected to shift from solely addressing skin pigmentation to comprehensive approaches involving anti-photoaging therapies and skin repair interventions.

Key words: Melanosis, Skin aging, Gonadal hormones, Circadian rhythm, Melasma, Photoaging, Skin barrier