What should you know about melasma on dark skin?

Melasma involves increased pigment activity in selected skin areas. On darker skin tones, it may appear as brown, deep brown or grey-brown patches, with visibility changing according to the surrounding complexion. Sunlight, visible light, heat and hormonal shifts can influence the colour. Acne, eczema, waxing or harsh skincare can create additional post-inflammatory pigment.

The location and surface provide useful clues, but appearance alone cannot confirm the cause. Smooth, patterned patches may fit melasma; scale, swelling, tenderness, crusting or a quickly changing border calls for a clinician’s examination.

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed areas and consider hats, shade and covering clothing. Wash and moisturise gently, avoid abrasive tools, and stop products that sting or inflame the skin. Reducing friction and treating active acne or dermatitis can prevent additional pigment from obscuring the picture.

A dermatologist may prescribe pigment-control care and assess whether Chemical Peel, Microneedling, Skin Brightening Treatment or Laser Toning is appropriate. For darker skin, the plan should account for post-inflammatory colour change, with careful settings, preparation and aftercare rather than aggressive treatment.

Have any unexplained dark patch checked if it grows quickly, becomes raised, bleeds, crusts, hurts or itches persistently. Seek advice when pigment follows a new product, medicine or inflammatory rash and continues to spread. A review can distinguish melasma from other causes and prevent unsuitable self-treatment.

Ask whether the pattern is melasma or post-inflammatory pigmentation, how your skin tone changes procedure choices, and which products are least irritating. Discuss sun and visible-light protection, safe product introduction, treatment intervals, and what to do if pigment becomes temporarily darker.