Korean skincare for melasma

Hydration and a simple brightening routine can improve comfort and the appearance of patches, but melasma often needs an individual plan. Irritation and unprotected light exposure can make facial pigmentation more noticeable.

Melasma causes darker, usually flat patches that commonly appear on areas such as the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip. It can be influenced by light, hormonal changes, heat, and irritation. [Dark Patches On Skin](/symptoms/dark-patches-on-skin/) and [Uneven Skin Tone](/symptoms/uneven-skin-tone/) describe visible findings, not a diagnosis. [Sun-Damaged Skin](/conditions/photoaging/) can coexist with melasma but is a different process.

A Korean routine may include cleanser, hydrating layers, serum, moisturiser, and sunscreen. Keeping fewer steps can make it easier to identify an irritating product and maintain the routine.

Cleanse without scrubbing, moisturise, and use broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning. A tinted product may help provide visible-light protection if it suits your skin. Introduce one brightening ingredient at a time and stop any product that causes burning, rash, or prolonged redness. A clinician may consider [Skin Brightening Treatment](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/skin-brightening-treatment/), [Chemical Peel](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/chemical-peel/), [Microneedling](/treatments/aesthetic-procedures/microneedling/), or [Laser Toning](/treatments/laser-and-energy/laser-toning/) after assessing your pigmentation and skin response.

Arrange a dermatology assessment if patches are new, changing, one-sided, raised, bleeding, painful, or not behaving like your usual melasma. Seek prompt care for a rapidly changing or ulcerated spot. Discuss pregnancy, breastfeeding, hormonal medicines, and previous reactions before using prescription or in-clinic pigment treatments.

Does this pattern fit melasma or another cause of dark patches? Which cleanser, brightening ingredient, and sunscreen should I use? What should I avoid if I am pregnant or breastfeeding? Would a peel, microneedling, or laser be appropriate for my skin, and how will irritation be prevented?