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Melasma

Melasma is a common pigmentary skin condition that causes dark, blotchy patches on the face, most often on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and nose. While melasma is harmless, it can be persistent, frustrating, and emotionally distressing without proper treatment.

At Mittal Dermatology, our board-certified dermatologists specialize in diagnosing and managing melasma using evidence-based, personalized treatment plans designed to safely improve skin tone and prevent recurrence.

Melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation caused by overproduction of melanin (skin pigment). It most commonly affects sun-exposed areas of the face and appears as brown, gray-brown, or tan patches with irregular borders.

Melasma is a chronic condition, meaning it can improve with treatment but may recur — especially with sun exposure or hormonal changes.

Melasma typically presents as:

  • Symmetrical dark patches on the face
  • Brown or gray-brown discoloration
  • Patches that darken with sun exposure
  • Smooth skin texture (no scaling or raised lesions)

Melasma does not cause itching or pain, but its visibility often impacts self-confidence.

Melasma develops due to a combination of hormonal, genetic, and environmental factors. Common triggers include:

  • Sun exposure (primary trigger)
  • Hormonal changes (pregnancy, oral contraceptives, hormone therapy)
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Heat exposure
  • Certain skincare products or medications

Because ultraviolet (UV) and visible light play a major role, even minimal sun exposure can worsen melasma without proper protection.

Melasma is more common in:

  • Women (especially ages 20–50)
  • Individuals with medium to darker skin tones
  • Pregnant patients (“mask of pregnancy”)
  • Those with a family history of melasma

While men can develop melasma, it occurs far more frequently in women.

Melasma is diagnosed through a clinical skin examination by a dermatologist. In some cases, specialized lighting or tools may be used to assess pigment depth and guide treatment decisions.

Accurate diagnosis is important to distinguish melasma from other causes of facial pigmentation such as sun spots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or medication-related discoloration.

At Mittal Dermatology, melasma treatment focuses on reducing pigment, preventing recurrence, and protecting the skin barrier. Treatment plans are tailored to each patient and may include:

Prescription Topical Treatments

  • Skin-lightening agents that reduce melanin production
  • Combination creams designed to improve discoloration gradually
  • Anti-inflammatory topicals to calm pigment-producing cells

Medical-Grade Skincare

  • Gentle cleansers and barrier-repair moisturizers
  • Pigment-correcting serums
  • Mineral sunscreens with iron oxide for visible-light protection

Oral & Supportive Therapies

  • Oral medications in select cases to help control pigment pathways
  • Guidance on hormonal influences when appropriate

In-Office Procedures

  • Chemical peels (carefully selected for melasma-prone skin)
  • Laser or light-based treatments only when appropriate, as melasma can worsen without expert management

Important: Melasma requires a cautious, dermatologist-directed approach. Aggressive treatments or improper lasers can make pigmentation worse.

Daily sun protection is essential for controlling melasma and preventing recurrence. This includes:

  • Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every day
  • Mineral sunscreen with iron oxide
  • Protective hats and sun-avoidance strategies
  • Reapplication when outdoors

Without strict sun protection, even the best treatments will not succeed.

While melasma cannot always be permanently cured, it can be significantly improved and well-controlled with consistent treatment and sun protection. Long-term management focuses on:

  • Reducing pigment gradually
  • Preventing flare-ups
  • Protecting skin from UV and heat
  • Adjusting treatment as triggers change

Our dermatologists partner with patients to create sustainable plans that fit real life.

Is melasma permanent?

Melasma is chronic, but many patients see excellent improvement with proper treatment and maintenance.

Can melasma go away on its own?

In some cases, pregnancy-related melasma may fade after hormonal changes resolve, but most cases require treatment.

Does sunscreen really help melasma?

Yes — sunscreen is one of the most important parts of melasma treatment and prevention.

Can lasers treat melasma?

Lasers may help select patients but must be used cautiously by experienced dermatologists to avoid worsening pigmentation.

At Mittal Dermatology, we bring deep expertise in treating complex pigmentary disorders like melasma. Our approach emphasizes:

  • Accurate diagnosis
  • Evidence-based, conservative treatment strategies
  • Long-term pigment control
  • Skin barrier protection and patient education

We understand how challenging melasma can be — and we’re here to help.

Schedule a Melasma Consultation

If dark facial patches are affecting your confidence, professional care can make a difference. Call us or request an appointment online to schedule a melasma evaluation with experienced dermatologists.

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