Melasma When Pigmentation Tells A Deeper Story

Melasma: When Pigmentation Tells a Deeper Story

It starts as a faint patch. A shadow across your cheeks or forehead. But over time, it deepens---turning into a persistent patch of pigmentation that makeup barely hides.

This is melasma---a common yet complex skin condition that goes far beyond “just a tan.”

At SkinWise Clinic, we believe your skin deserves not just correction, but care---with science, patience, and compassion.

What Is Melasma?

Melasma is a chronic skin condition marked by brown, tan, or gray-brown patches, typically on the face. It most commonly affects:

  • Cheeks

  • Forehead

  • Bridge of the nose

  • Upper lip

  • Chin

  • Occasionally, forearms or neck

It’s not dangerous---but it can cause significant emotional distress.

What Causes Melasma?

Melasma is a multifactorial pigment disorder, meaning several factors work together to trigger it:

  • ☀️ Sun exposure — UV radiation is the strongest trigger

  • 🤰 Hormonal changes — Pregnancy (chloasma), birth control pills, hormone therapy

  • 🧬 Genetics — Runs in families

  • 💊 Photosensitizing medications — Certain antibiotics, anti-epileptics

  • 🧴 Cosmetic irritation — Harsh products or treatments

  • 🔬 Underlying inflammation — Subclinical skin injury or free radical damage

Who Gets Melasma?

  • More common in women (especially during childbearing years)

  • Higher incidence in darker skin types (Fitzpatrick III—V)

  • Often triggered during pregnancy or after starting birth control pills

  • Common in tropical climates like India due to sun exposure

Is Melasma Curable?

Melasma isn’t “curable” in the traditional sense---but it is very treatable and can be beautifully managed. With the right plan, patients often see visible improvement in weeks to months.

Our Approach to Melasma at SkinWise Clinic

🌞 Sun Protection Is Non-Negotiable

  • Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen (even indoors)

  • Tinted sunscreens (iron oxide blocks visible light)

  • Hats and umbrellas for added protection

🧴 Topical Treatments

  • Hydroquinone (in short-term regimens)

  • Azelaic acid, kojic acid, arbutin, niacinamide

  • Retinoids for skin renewal (only under medical supervision)

✳️ Oral Supplements

  • Polypodium leucotomos, antioxidants, tranexamic acid (if indicated)

💡 Advanced Procedures

Performed with caution and only under expert guidance:

  • Chemical peels (mild glycolic, lactic, TCA)

  • Microneedling with tranexamic acid

  • Low-fluence Q-switched laser or Pico laser (for resistant melasma)

What to Expect

Melasma is a journey, not a quick fix. It takes consistency, sun discipline, and realistic expectations. Recurrence is common---but manageable.

With proper care, your skin can regain its clarity and even tone---safely, ethically, and effectively.

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