Understanding melasma
Melasma causes patches of darker skin, usually on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip or chin. It is common, harmless and often stubborn, so understanding what drives it is the first step to managing it.
What causes melasma
Melasma is linked to hormones, sunlight and heat. It is much more common in women. It often starts or worsens during pregnancy, with the contraceptive pill or with hormone therapy. People with olive or darker skin, who tan easily, are more prone to it. Family history plays a part too.
Sun exposure is the biggest trigger for flare-ups. Even visible light and heat can darken melasma, which is why it often worsens in summer.
Why it can be tricky
Melasma tends to come back, and it can get worse with treatments that heat or inflame the skin. That’s why getting the diagnosis right matters. Sun spots and melasma can look alike, but they are managed differently. A doctor should check any patch of pigmentation before treatment, to confirm what it is.
How it’s managed
Melasma is usually managed rather than cured. Plans often combine:
- Daily sun protection: broad-spectrum SPF 50+, reapplied through the day, plus a hat and shade. Tinted sunscreens can help, as they also block some visible light.
- Skincare: products that target pigment. Some options require a prescription, and your doctor will explain these.
- Gentle in-clinic treatments: chemical peels or low-energy laser, chosen carefully to avoid inflaming the skin. Not everyone with melasma is suitable for laser treatment.
- Reviewing triggers: such as hormonal medicines, with your GP.
Improvement is gradual, and ongoing sun protection is needed to keep it under control.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor to confirm the diagnosis before starting treatment, and straight away if any patch is changing in shape, colour or size, or bleeds.
This article is general information, not medical advice. All procedures carry risks.
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Every treatment at Concept Cosmetic Medicine starts with an unhurried, one-on-one consultation with an experienced practitioner. You’ll talk through your concerns and goals, and leave with a clear plan built around your skin, with recovery, risks and costs explained, so you can decide with confidence.
Important information. All procedures carry risks. Results vary from person to person and are not guaranteed. Before any treatment you’ll have a consultation with a registered practitioner, who will explain the expected benefits, recovery time, possible side effects and complications, costs, and alternatives, including not having treatment. Take time to consider your decision. You may wish to seek a second opinion.