Condition

Understanding & Treating Melasma

Excess Pigment Production (Hyperpigmentation)

Melasma is caused by an overproduction of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin color. When melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) become overactive, they create dark patches or discoloration on the skin, usually on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip.

Hormonal Fluctuations & Triggers

Hormones play a significant role in melasma development. Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels, particularly during pregnancy, birth control use, or hormone therapy, can stimulate excess melanin production.

Environmental & Lifestyle Factors

Sun exposure, heat, and even blue light from screens can worsen melasma, as UV rays trigger melanocytes to overproduce pigment. Additionally, genetics, skin care products, and certain medications can contribute to its severity. Since melasma is a chronic condition, managing external factors and using protective measures is essential for preventing flare-ups.

Melasma Condition Overview

Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by patches of darker pigmentation, often appearing symmetrically across the face. It primarily affects areas frequently exposed to the sun, such as the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and nose, but can also occur on the neck and arms.

Unlike typical hyperpigmentation, melasma is complex and influenced by hormones, genetics, and UV exposure, making it more challenging to treat without a comprehensive, long-term approach.

At Image Clinic, we specialize in cutting-edge melasma treatments that target deep-rooted pigmentation and help restore a more even, balanced skin tone.

What Is Melasma?

Melasma is a form of stubborn hyperpigmentation that develops when melanin production becomes irregular. Unlike sunspots or post-inflammatory pigmentation, melasma often appears in larger patches and can be triggered by internal and external factors.

Melasma can be classified into:

- Epidermal Melasma – Pigmentation is in the outer layer of the skin, making it easier to treat.

- Dermal Melasma – Pigmentation extends deeper into the skin, requiring advanced treatments for improvement.

- Mixed-Type Melasma – A combination of both epidermal and dermal melasma, making it more persistent.

At Image Clinic, we assess the depth and severity of melasma before customizing a treatment plan that delivers real, long-lasting results.

How We Treat Melasma at Image Clinic

Melasma requires specialized treatments designed to safely fade hyperpigmentation without further irritation. At Image Clinic, we offer a multi-faceted approach to achieve clearer, more even-toned skin.

✔ Laser & Light-Based Therapies – IPL Photorejuvenation & Fractional Laser break down pigment clusters while stimulating new, healthy skin regeneration.

✔ Chemical Peels – Mild to advanced peels exfoliate surface pigmentation, reducing discoloration and improving skin tone.

✔ Medical-Grade Skincare & Topicals – Brightening ingredients like tranexamic acid, kojic acid, vitamin C, and hydroquinone help regulate melanin production and fade dark patches.

✔ Microneedling with PRP – Enhances skin renewal, reducing pigment intensity while improving skin texture.

Since melasma is often triggered by multiple factors, our customized treatment plans ensure safe, progressive, and effective results for all skin types.

Maintaining Results After Melasma Treatment

✔ Strict Sun Protection – UV exposure worsens melasma, so applying broad-spectrum SPF 50+ daily is essential.

✔ Brightening Skincare Routine – Using antioxidants, pigment inhibitors, and gentle exfoliants maintains even skin tone.

✔ Lifestyle Adjustments – Avoid excessive heat exposure and opt for blue-light-blocking skincare to prevent melasma from returning.

✔ Ongoing Maintenance Treatments – Periodic chemical peels, microneedling, or laser therapy help keep pigmentation under control.

Fixing Melasma: How It Works

Because melasma is a long-term skin condition, achieving lasting results requires a carefully curated treatment plan. At Image Clinic, our specialists create customized protocols based on your skin type, lifestyle, and pigmentation depth.

We use a combination of medical-grade products, non-invasive technology, and expert skincare guidance to ensure steady, progressive improvement with minimal risk of irritation or rebound pigmentation.

General Melasma FAQ.

Have questions? We have the answers! Explore our FAQ section to find everything you need to know.

How long does it take to see results from melasma treatments?

Melasma treatments require patience and consistency. While some clients see improvement after a few sessions, full results often take 8-12 weeks, depending on the depth and severity of pigmentation. Regular skincare, sun protection, and maintenance treatments help sustain the results.

Can melasma be permanently cured?

Since melasma is a chronic condition, there is no permanent cure, but it can be effectively managed with consistent treatments and proper skincare. Avoiding triggers like sun exposure, heat, and hormonal fluctuations helps prevent recurrence.

Are melasma treatments safe for all skin types?

Yes! Our customized treatments are designed for all skin tones, ensuring safe, effective results without the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Our specialists tailor every session based on your skin sensitivity and melasma depth.