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Melasma is a chronic pigmentation condition where excess melanin is produced, leading to darker patches on the skin. It is often hormonally influenced and requires ongoing, strategic management, not aggressive correction.
What It Looks Like
- Symmetrical brown or grey-brown patches
- Common on cheeks, forehead, upper lip and jawline
- Flat, not raised
- Can deepen quickly with sun and heat exposure
What Causes It
- Sun exposure (primary trigger ☀️)
- Hormonal influences (pregnancy, birth control, menopause)
- Heat and inflammation in the skin
- Genetic predisposition
Melasma vs Other Pigmentation (Common Misdiagnosis)
- Melasma: symmetrical, diffuse, hormonally driven
- Sun spots: isolated, well-defined
- Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): follows acne or injury
⚠️ Overly aggressive or incorrect treatments can worsen melasma. Learn more about dark circles, pigmentation and melasma.
Treatment Options
1. Do Nothing Melasma is medically harmless, though often a cosmetic concern.
2. Pharma-Grade Skincare This is the foundation of all melasma management:
- Vivier Vitamin C Serums, antioxidant protection and brightening
- Radiance Serum, targets uneven tone and discoloration
- Retinol, supports cellular turnover
- AHA exfoliation, gentle pigment lifting and renewal
- Salicylic Acid cleansers
- Daily SPF 30+ or higher, non-negotiable for control and prevention. Read our full guide to daily SPF in Nova Scotia.
3. Microneedling (Lesser Depth) A controlled, low-inflammatory treatment that supports skin renewal and enhances product penetration without excessive heat. Learn more about microneedling.
4. Laser Therapy Conservatively targets deeper pigment and vascular components, supporting overall tone when performed with appropriate settings. See laser therapy for melasma. A gentle, progressive option to help break up pigment, best performed in a series with conservative settings to reduce rebound pigmentation.
5. IPL, Use Caution IPL may be beneficial in select cases, but heat can trigger or worsen melasma.
The Takeaway
Melasma is a management journey, not a one-time fix. The right combination of professional treatments and consistent home care creates the best outcomes.