What should you know about red light for melasma?

Melasma causes flat brown or grey-brown patches, often on the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip. It can become more noticeable with sunlight, visible light, heat, hormonal changes, or skin irritation. Red light is different from ultraviolet light, but a device may still produce warmth, and not every product has the same output or safety instructions.

Melasma can overlap with other causes of dark patches or uneven tone. A change after using a lamp does not confirm the diagnosis, and worsening pigment may take time to settle after irritation.

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen and physical protection such as a hat, while limiting heat and avoiding skincare that stings. If you try a device, follow its instructions, protect the eyes, introduce it cautiously, and stop for warmth, burning, rash, or darker patches. Take photographs in consistent lighting rather than judging pigment immediately after exposure.

A clinician can discuss [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/) according to your skin and diagnosis. Read more about [Melasma](/conditions/melasma/), [Sun-Damaged Skin](/conditions/photoaging/), [Dark Patches On Skin](/symptoms/dark-patches-on-skin/), and [Uneven Skin Tone](/symptoms/uneven-skin-tone/).

Arrange assessment for a new, changing, raised, bleeding, crusting, itchy, or one-sided pigmented mark rather than assuming it is melasma. Seek advice if patches spread quickly or become inflamed after a device or peel. Prompt review helps distinguish melasma from other pigmentation problems and guides safer treatment.

Does the pattern fit melasma or another cause of pigmentation? Could my skincare, hormones, or medicines contribute? Would red light add value or heat-related risk? Which treatment fits my skin tone, and how will irritation or relapse be managed?