What is the medical term for the condition known as "pregnancy mask"?

The condition commonly referred to as "pregnancy mask" is medically known as melasma. Melasma is characterized by brown or gray-brown patches on the skin, particularly on the face, and is often associated with hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy, as well as factors like sun exposure and genetics. It primarily affects areas of the face such as the cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin.

Chloasma is actually another term for melasma, but it is less commonly used in clinical settings. The significant overlap between these terms can lead to confusion, yet melasma is the preferred term that captures the condition more broadly and is recognized widely in medical literature.

Dermatitis refers to inflammation of the skin and does not specifically relate to the pigmentation changes seen in melasma. Acanthosis is characterized by dark, velvety patches in body folds and is not related to the pigmentation changes associated with "pregnancy mask." Understanding these distinctions is important for accurately identifying skin conditions.