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LEARN MOREMelasma
Melasma is a form of pigmentation that appears as soft brown or greyish patches on areas like the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, or jawline. While completely harmless, it can feel frustrating or deeply personal, especially when it appears suddenly or proves resistant to change. Melasma is often triggered by hormonal shifts, sun exposure, genetics, or a combination of these factors, and it tends to be more common in women, particularly during pregnancy or with changes in birth control or menopause.
Unlike other types of pigmentation, melasma lives deeper in the skin and can fluctuate over time, making it challenging to manage with standard brightening products alone. Its appearance may shift with the seasons, stress levels, or hormonal cycles, which can create a sense of unpredictability in how your skin looks and feels.
With patience, expertise, and a personalized approach, it is possible to gently reduce pigmentation, calm inflammation, and support long-term skin health, always respecting your comfort and unique skin story.
What causes melasma?
Hormonal Fluctuations
Melasma is often triggered by hormonal changes, particularly in women. It commonly appears during pregnancy (known as “the mask of pregnancy”), with oral contraceptives, or during perimenopause. Estrogen and progesterone can stimulate excess melanin production, especially when combined with sun exposure.
Sun Exposure
Ultraviolet (UV) rays are one of the most powerful triggers and aggravators of melasma. Even brief, unprotected sun exposure can cause pigment cells to become overactive, deepening and spreading existing patches. Heat and visible light (like blue light from screens) may also worsen pigmentation in sensitive individuals.
Genetics and Skin Type
Melasma is more common in individuals with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick III–VI) and those with a family history of pigmentation issues. If melasma runs in your family, your skin may be more prone to irregular melanin activity.
Inflammation and Skin Sensitivity
Skin that is chronically inflamed, over-exfoliated, or irritated by harsh products may develop melasma or make it worse. Barrier damage can stimulate melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) and lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation that mimics or exacerbates melasma.
Heat and Light Exposure
In addition to sun exposure, heat from cooking, exercise, or even electronic devices can stimulate pigment cells. This is why melasma may worsen during the summer or in environments with prolonged heat or light exposure, even if sunscreen is worn.
At Victoria Park Medispa, we recognize that melasma is complex and deeply personal. Our team offers customized treatments that combine medical grade skincare, advanced technology, and expert care. Whether you are managing active pigmentation or looking to prevent future flare ups, we are here to support your skin health with respect and precision.
Melasma
Solutions
Chemical Peels
These gentle peels use brightening ingredients like lactic acid, azelaic acid, or kojic acid to exfoliate the skin and reduce excess pigmentation without triggering irritation.
Who it’s for: Mild to moderate melasma, especially on sensitive or reactive skin.
Treatment plan: Typically 3 to 6 treatments every 4 to 6 weeks, with seasonal maintenance.
Results: Gradual fading of discoloration and improved tone within 6 to 12 weeks.
Clear + Brilliant® Laser
This gentle non ablative laser boosts serum absorption and reduces melasma and uneven pigmentation with minimal downtime.
Who it’s for: Mild to moderate melasma or diffuse hyperpigmentation.
Treatment plan: Typically 4 to 6 sessions, 2 to 4 weeks apart, often paired with skincare.
Results: Brighter, more even skin with gradual improvement over treatments.
Moxi Laser
Moxi is a gentle, non-ablative fractional laser that targets pigment with minimal heat, making it effective for melasma without triggering inflammation.
Who it’s for: Mild to moderate melasma in all skin tones, especially sensitive or reactive skin.
Treatment plan: 3 to 5 sessions spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart, with seasonal maintenance.
Results: Brighter, more even skin tone with gradual fading of pigmentation over several weeks.
Dermatology Referral (if needed)
For complex or treatment-resistant melasma, a consultation with one of our dermatologists provides access to advanced medical-grade care and prescription-based options.
Who it’s for: Stubborn melasma or sensitive skin not improving with cosmetic treatments.
Treatment plan: May include prescription creams, trigger management, and skin protection advice.
Results: Better pigment control, fewer flare-ups, and safer long-term management.
Not sure which treatment is right for you ?
Schedule a complimentary consultation with our experts to discuss your needs
WHY CHOOSE
VICTORIA PARK MEDISPA
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Financing
Our partnership with Beautifi means our patients can get the treatments they deserve with low-interest, flexible monthly payments.
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Price match policy
If you discover a better price on laser-based aesthetic services, let us know, and we’ll match that figure.*Details apply.
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Access to the best experts
Our medical team is made up of the country’s top board-certified plastic surgeons and dermatologists. These experts are supported by a team of dedicated registered nurses who are passionate about helping you achieve your aspirations.
FAQ
Got questions about melasma? We’ve got answers!
How can I get rid of melasma?
Melasma can be significantly lightened and controlled with a multi-layered approach. This may include chemical peels, medical-grade skincare, and consistent sun protection. Light-based treatments such as Moxi or Clear + Brilliant may also help, depending on your skin type.
Does melasma get worse in the sun?
Yes. Even brief exposure to UV light can trigger pigment production and worsen melasma. Daily use of a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, applied in the morning and reapplied as needed, is essential for prevention and treatment.
How do you treat melasma?
We start with a consultation to assess your skin tone and pigmentation pattern. From there, a treatment plan may include gentle chemical peels, pigment-balancing skincare, and lifestyle adjustments. In some cases, a dermatology referral or light-based therapy may also be considered.
Is laser treatment safe for melasma?
Yes, when carefully selected and performed at appropriate settings. Treatments such as Moxi or Clear + Brilliant are gentle enough for melasma-prone skin and can safely reduce pigment over time.
What is the best treatment for melasma?
The most effective plans typically involve alternating peels, low-energy laser treatments, and consistent use of skincare products that help control pigment. No single treatment works for everyone, so a customized approach is key.
Can melasma be permanently removed?
No. Melasma is a chronic condition that tends to relapse. Long-term maintenance with sun protection, skincare, and periodic treatments is necessary to keep it under control.
Can skincare alone treat melasma?
Mild cases may respond to medical-grade skincare. However, moderate to severe melasma usually requires a combination of home care and professional treatments for best results.
Can melasma go away on its own?
No. Melasma typically persists or worsens without treatment. Active management is needed to reduce and control pigment.
Is melasma a sign of a health problem?
No. Melasma is a benign skin condition caused by pigment overproduction. It is influenced by sun exposure, hormones, and genetics, but it does not indicate an underlying health issue.
Can melasma come back after treatment?
Yes. Melasma often recurs with sun exposure or hormonal changes. Ongoing care is essential to maintain results over time.
Does pregnancy always cause melasma?
No. Hormonal shifts during pregnancy increase the risk, but not all pregnant individuals develop melasma.
Is it safe to treat melasma while pregnant or breastfeeding?
No. We recommend avoiding lasers and chemical peels during this time. Instead, focus on pregnancy-safe skincare and sun protection to help minimize worsening.
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