Melasma is a common pigmentation condition that causes brown,
greyish-brown or darker patches, most often on the face. It may
appear on the cheeks, forehead, nose, upper lip or jawline.
Treatment depends on the pigmentation pattern, skin type,
triggers and individual response.
Brown or greyish facial patches
Uneven skin pigmentation
Pigmentation on the cheeks and forehead
Dark patches around the upper lip
Pigmentation that may become more noticeable with sun exposure
Why melasma develops
Common Factors Behind Melasma
01
Sun Exposure
Ultraviolet exposure can stimulate pigmentation and may
contribute to melasma becoming more noticeable.
02
Hormonal Factors
Hormonal changes can contribute to melasma in some individuals,
particularly during certain stages of life.
03
Heat & Light
Heat and certain forms of light exposure may aggravate
pigmentation in some people.
04
Skin Sensitivity
Irritation from unsuitable skincare products may make
pigmentation concerns more difficult to manage.
Treatment options
How Melasma May Be Treated
Melasma treatment is usually personalised according to skin type,
pigmentation depth, severity and previous treatment. Depending on
the assessment, treatment may include skincare, prescription
medicines, procedures or a combination approach.
Prescription Pigmentation Care
Dermatologist-prescribed topical treatment may be considered
to help reduce excess pigmentation when medically appropriate.
Chemical Peels
Selected chemical peels may be recommended for suitable
pigmentation concerns after assessing the skin.
Laser & Light-Based Procedures
Certain patients may be considered for carefully selected
procedures depending on pigmentation and skin characteristics.
Skin Brightening Support
A suitable skincare routine may support the management of
uneven pigmentation and help maintain treatment results.
Sun Protection
Consistent sun protection is an important part of managing
melasma and reducing the chance of pigmentation becoming darker.
Combination Treatment
Some patients may benefit from a combination of medical
treatment, skincare and selected procedures.
Your treatment journey
What Happens During Your Melasma Consultation?
Pigmentation Assessment
The location, pattern, colour and extent of pigmentation are
reviewed during the dermatology assessment.
History Review
Previous pigmentation treatments, skincare products, sun
exposure and relevant factors are discussed.
Personalised Treatment Plan
A treatment plan is created according to your skin type,
pigmentation and individual treatment requirements.
Progress Review
Follow-up appointments help assess the response and modify
treatment when required.
Dermatologist-led treatment
Melasma Care at Dr Hera's Skin & Hair Clinic
Melasma can be persistent and may return even after improvement.
Treatment therefore focuses not only on reducing visible
pigmentation but also on identifying suitable skincare,
sun-protection measures and treatment options for long-term
management.
Melasma treatment results can vary depending on pigmentation depth,
skin type, triggers, treatment approach and individual response.
Case 1 — Individual results can vary.
Case 2 — Individual results can vary.
Aftercare
Basic Melasma Care Tips During Treatment
Follow the dermatologist's prescribed skincare routine consistently.
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen as advised.
Limit unnecessary sun exposure and use physical protection where appropriate.
Avoid harsh or irritating skincare products unless recommended.
Do not start strong pigmentation treatments without professional guidance.
Attend follow-up appointments when recommended.
When to consult
Consider a Dermatologist Visit If
Facial pigmentation is becoming darker or more noticeable.
Brown patches are repeatedly returning.
Over-the-counter pigmentation products are not helping.
You are unsure whether the pigmentation is melasma.
You want professional advice before starting chemical peels or other procedures.
Frequently asked questions
Melasma Treatment FAQs
Can melasma be permanently removed?
Melasma can often be improved and managed, but it may return
because pigmentation can be influenced by factors such as
sunlight, hormones and individual skin characteristics.
How long does melasma treatment take?
Improvement varies between individuals and depends on the
severity of pigmentation, treatment approach and response.
Your dermatologist can provide a more relevant estimate after
assessing your skin.
Is sunscreen important for melasma?
Sun protection is an important part of melasma management because
ultraviolet exposure can worsen pigmentation. Your dermatologist
can recommend suitable sunscreen and protective measures.
Do chemical peels help melasma?
Selected chemical peels may help some patients with pigmentation,
but suitability depends on skin type, pigmentation and the
dermatologist's assessment.
Can melasma come back after treatment?
Yes. Melasma can recur even after improvement. Consistent
sun protection and an appropriate maintenance routine may help
with long-term management.
Can I treat melasma at home?
Some skincare measures may support pigmentation management,
but persistent or recurring facial pigmentation should be
assessed by a dermatologist before starting stronger treatments.
