Melasma and Microdermabrasion: What to Know

Melasma causes brown or grey-brown patches, often on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip or jaw. Microdermabrasion removes some outer surface cells through controlled exfoliation. It does not address every trigger of melasma, such as light exposure or hormonal influences. Friction and inflammation after treatment may make pigment look darker in some skin tones, so a gentle technique and accurate diagnosis matter.

Have a dermatologist assess the patches before booking a session, especially if the diagnosis is uncertain or the skin is sensitive. Ask whether your current cleanser, exfoliant or pigment treatment should be paused. Protect the treated area from daylight with broad-spectrum sunscreen, shade and a hat, and avoid picking or rubbing while the skin settles. A clinician may suggest a different approach, including a Chemical Peel, when it better matches your skin and pigment pattern.

A Microdermabrasion Device should be used by a trained professional with settings suited to your skin. Home devices can add friction without providing an assessment of active irritation, infection or another cause of pigmentation.

Seek medical advice promptly if treated skin develops increasing pain, marked swelling, blisters, pus, spreading warmth or a persistent change in colour. Arrange a review if patches change quickly, bleed, form a sore, or look different from the surrounding melasma, because a new or changing mark needs assessment rather than repeated exfoliation.

Is this definitely melasma, and could microdermabrasion aggravate my pigment? What preparation and aftercare suit my skin tone? Which signs would mean I should stop treatment and return for an examination?