At present, exact pathogenesis of melasma remains unclear, genetics, sunlight exposure, sex hormones, etc., are considered as the main causative factors. Its pathogenesis involves excessive melanin synthesis, vascular hyperplasia in skin lesions, inflammation and skin barrier impairment. The diagnosis of melasma mainly relies on clinical manifestations and non-invasive detection techniques. Based on research progress in recent years, this consensus comprehensively elaborates the etiology, pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, staging and classification, diagnosis and treatment of melasma, aiming to improve the diagnosis and treatment of melasma by Chinese dermatologists.