Melasma Program
Comprehensive, evidence-based management for melasma — combining safe topicals, procedure-based options, and long-term maintenance to reduce pigmentation and prevent recurrence.
Who develops melasma?
- Often seen in women of reproductive age but can affect men
- Triggered by hormones, sun exposure, genetics, and certain cosmetics/medications
- Typically symmetric patches on cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and chin
Program goals
- Reduce visible pigmentation and even skin tone
- Minimize recurrence by addressing triggers and maintenance
- Use pigment-safe, long-term strategies tailored to skin type
Expected timeline
4–8 weeks: early improvement with correct topicals and sun avoidance
3–6 months: meaningful reduction with combined in-clinic procedures and maintenance
Medical Topicals
- Triple combination creams (as appropriate and monitored)
- Azelaic acid, kojic acid, tranexamic acid (topical)
- Vitamin C and antioxidant serums for adjunctive support
All topicals are selected according to pregnancy status and skin sensitivity; hydroquinone used selectively with specialist oversight.
Procedures (selected carefully)
- Superficial chemical peels (mandelic, glycolic) for epidermal melasma
- Low-fluence Q-switched or picosecond lasers in experienced hands for select cases
- Microneedling + tranexamic acid serums in some profiles
Procedures are customized and conservative to avoid post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation; patient selection is key.
Sun protection & adjuncts
- Daily broad-spectrum SPF 50+, physical sunscreens recommended
- Sunhat, limited peak sun exposure, and pigment-safe makeup
- Oral tranexamic acid is considered in refractory cases with specialist review
How to prepare
- Start sunscreen daily at least 2 weeks before procedures
- Disclose hormonal therapies and pregnancy/breastfeeding status
- Avoid aggressive exfoliants 3–7 days before treatments
Aftercare
- Continue maintenance topicals as directed
- Strict photoprotection to prevent relapse
- Return visits at 4–8 week intervals initially for monitoring
Before & After
Use consenting patient photos to show realistic expectations. Note: melasma often requires ongoing maintenance.
Is melasma curable?
Melasma is typically chronic — treatable and controllable but may require long-term maintenance to prevent recurrence.
Can pregnant patients be treated?
Pregnancy-safe options like azelaic acid and strict sunscreen are used; stronger agents are deferred until after pregnancy or breastfeeding unless approved by your doctor.
What causes relapse?
Sun exposure, hormones, and certain topical/medications can trigger relapse. Maintenance and trigger control reduce recurrence risk.