Treatment for Melasma and Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation describes skin that has become darker than the surrounding area. Melasma often appears as symmetrical brown or grey-brown patches on facial areas exposed to light. Heat, hormonal changes, irritation, and visible light can influence the colour. A clinician may examine the pattern and ask about medicines, pregnancy, skin products, and previous inflammation before labelling the cause.

Use broad-spectrum sunscreen and physical protection consistently, and stop products that sting or inflame the skin. A clinician may prescribe a pigment-targeting medicine such as hydroquinone for a defined course, or suggest a chemical peel, skin brightening treatment, IPL, or picosecond laser when appropriate. Procedures can irritate skin and sometimes deepen pigmentation, particularly in darker skin tones, so settings and preparation matter. Do not combine active products or use unlabelled bleaching creams without medical guidance.

Seek assessment for a new, one-sided, rapidly changing, itchy, bleeding, or scaly dark patch rather than assuming it is melasma. Contact your clinician if treatment causes blistering, severe burning, swelling, or a spreading colour change.

What is causing my pigmentation, and how will you monitor progress? Which products should I stop? Would a topical medicine or procedure be safer for my skin tone?