Melasma

What Is Melasma?

Melasma is a chronic pigmentation condition that causes brown or gray-brown patches on the skin—most commonly on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, nose, and chin. It is especially common in women and in individuals with medium to darker skin tones.

Melasma is not dangerous, but it can be persistent and frustrating. With the right strategy, it can be significantly improved and well controlled.

Why Melasma Happens

Melasma develops when pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) become overactive. This overactivity is usually triggered by a combination of internal and external factors.

1. Hormonal Influence

Hormones play a major role. Melasma is commonly associated with:

Pregnancy
Oral contraceptives
Hormone replacement therapy
Hormonal fluctuations
Sun Exposure

This is why melasma is sometimes called the “mask of pregnancy.”

2. Sun & Heat Exposure

Ultraviolet (UV) light and even visible light and heat stimulate melanocytes. Sun exposure is the strongest and most consistent trigger—and the main reason melasma returns if not protected against properly.

3. Genetic Predisposition

Melasma often runs in families. If close relatives have melasma, your risk is higher.

4. Skin Inflammation & Barrier Disruption

Irritating skincare products, harsh treatments, or uncontrolled acne can worsen melasma by triggering inflammation, which stimulates pigment production.

5. Internal Stress & Inflammation

Chronic stress, oxidative damage, and inflammation can worsen pigment disorders and make melasma harder to control.

How Melasma Is Treated

Melasma requires a long-term management plan, not a quick fix. The goal is to reduce pigment production, fade existing discoloration, and prevent recurrence.

Medical-Grade Topical Treatments

These are the foundation of melasma care:

Pigment-regulating agents that slow melanin production
Retinoids and other solutions to improve cell turnover and enhance penetration of other treatments
Anti-inflammatory ingredients to calm the skin
Barrier-repair moisturizers to reduce irritation

Consistency is critical—results build gradually over time.

In-Office Treatments

Used strategically and cautiously:

Superficial chemical peels designed for pigment disorders
Microneedling with brightening serums
Select laser and light-based treatments, only when appropriate
Regenerative therapies to improve dermal skin health

Aggressive or poorly chosen treatments can worsen melasma, so customization is essential.

Sun & Light Protection (Non-Negotiable)

Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+ or higher)
Tinted sunscreens to protect against visible light
Reapplication every 2–3 hours when outdoors
Hats and sun-avoidance during peak hours

Without strict sun protection, melasma treatments will not succeed.

Lifestyle & Functional Medicine Support

Melasma management goes beyond skincare.

Hormonal & Internal Balance

Identify hormonal triggers when possible
Coordinate care with your primary provider if needed
Address thyroid or endocrine imbalances when present

Nutrition & Inflammation Control

Diets rich in antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress
Limit ultra-processed foods that promote inflammation
Support gut health for improved nutrient absorption

Stress Management

Chronic stress increases inflammatory signaling
Mindfulness, sleep optimization, and stress reduction support skin stability

What to Expect

Improvement is gradual, not immediate
Melasma can be controlled but may recur without maintenance
Long-term consistency delivers the best results

Patients who commit to ongoing care see the most reliable improvement.

Our Approach

We treat melasma with a measured, evidence-based strategy—combining targeted topical therapy, carefully selected procedures, lifestyle guidance, and rigorous sun protection. Our goal is not just to fade pigment, but to help you maintain clearer, more even-toned skin long term.

Melasma is manageable—with the right plan and expert guidance.