Facial hyper-pigmentation such as melasma, lentigines and brown spots (solar lentigines) are cosmetically undesirable yet very common in Australia. Pigmentation often occurs due to prolonged and repeated sun exposure or burns that often grow with time. However, brown or ashen patches of skin can also occur from birth control pills, anti-epilepsy drugs, pregnancy or hormone-replacement therapy. Other health-related problems could be possible causes. It is recommended that all health-related conditions should be directed to a physician, especially if the client is undergoing sudden or unexpected changes in skin colour.