Melasma
A clear guide to melasma, what influences it, and the careful approaches a doctor may consider after assessment.
- Registered medical practitioner
- Standardised 3D imaging
- A written, personalised plan
What is melasma?
Melasma is a common pigmentation condition that causes patches of brown or grey-brown discolouration, usually on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip and nose. The patches tend to be symmetrical and often appear in the same places on both sides of the face.
It is more common in women and in people with medium to deeper skin tones, and it is strongly linked to hormones and light exposure. Melasma is not harmful, but it can be persistent and may return after it has settled.
Melasma is managed rather than cured. Dr Marie-Claire will assess the pattern and depth of the pigmentation first, because some approaches that suit other pigment concerns can make melasma more active.
What causes melasma?
The exact cause is not fully understood. Several factors appear to work together, and they differ between individuals.
Overactive pigment cells
The cells that produce pigment in the skin can become more active in some areas, which creates visible patches of colour.
Hormonal influence
Hormonal changes, including pregnancy, are associated with the onset and flares of melasma. This is one reason it is more common in women.
Ultraviolet and visible light
Both UV and visible light can stimulate pigment production. This is why daily protection matters even on cloudy days and indoors near windows.
Heat and inflammation
Heat and inflammation in the skin may encourage pigment production in melasma-prone skin. Some heat-based treatments can therefore worsen it.
Genetics and skin type
Melasma often runs in families. It is more common in people who tan easily or have medium to deeper skin tones.
Common triggers
Triggers vary from person to person, and noticing when your skin darkens can help guide a plan.
- Sun exposure, including incidental daily exposure
- Visible light from screens and bright indoor lighting for some people
- Heat, such as hot climates, saunas and very hot showers
- Hormonal changes, including pregnancy
- Skin irritation from harsh products or aggressive treatments
- Inflammation after a skin reaction
Types of melasma
Melasma is described by the depth at which the pigment sits, and many people have more than one type.
Epidermal melasma
The pigment sits in the upper layer of the skin. It usually looks light to dark brown with a defined edge and may respond more readily to care.
Dermal melasma
The pigment sits deeper in the skin. It tends to look grey-brown or bluish with softer edges and is generally slower to change.
Mixed melasma
Pigment is present in both the upper and deeper layers. This is the most common pattern, and it usually needs a patient, layered approach.
How is melasma treated?
Melasma is managed over time, and careful assessment comes first. Dr Marie-Claire will examine your skin and discuss options in consultation. Individual results vary.
Sun protection and skin health
Daily broad-spectrum sun protection, along with a gentle routine that avoids irritation, is the foundation of care. Dr Marie-Claire will outline an approach for your skin.
Discover moreChemical peels
Gentle chemical peels may be considered in selected cases, chosen and timed carefully to avoid irritating melasma-prone skin.
Discover morePrescription treatments
Prescription topical options, where appropriate, are discussed in consultation. Dr Marie-Claire will explain what may suit your skin and what to monitor.
Energy-based treatments
Energy-based treatments are considered only after careful assessment, because heat can aggravate melasma. They may not be suitable for everyone with this condition.
Discover moreFrequently asked questions
Can melasma be cured?
Melasma is a long-term condition that is usually managed rather than cured. Pigment may lighten with consistent sun protection and a suitable plan, but it can return with sun exposure, heat or hormonal changes. Dr Marie-Claire will assess your skin and discuss a realistic plan. Individual results vary, and no outcome is guaranteed.
Why does melasma come back?
Melasma is influenced by light, heat and hormones, so the pigment-producing cells in the skin can become active again when those triggers return. This is why ongoing daily sun protection is a central part of care. A consultation can help identify the triggers most relevant to your skin and plan how to reduce their effect over time.
Can laser make melasma worse?
Heat and inflammation can stimulate pigment production, so some energy-based treatments may worsen melasma in certain people. For this reason they are considered only after careful assessment, and they are not suitable for every case. Dr Marie-Claire will examine your skin and explain whether any energy-based option is appropriate for the pattern you have.
How do I know if a patch is melasma or something else?
Melasma usually appears as symmetrical brown patches on the face, but other pigmented spots can look similar. Any spot that is new, changing, uneven in colour, raised or bleeding should have a skin check before any pigmentation treatment is considered. Dr Marie-Claire can assess your skin at her St Kilda studio and refer you on where needed.
How much does melasma treatment cost in Melbourne?
Cost depends on the area, the approach and the number of sessions, and it is set out in a written plan after consultation. UltraClear treatment prices are published on the pricing page. A consultation at her St Kilda studio lets Dr Marie-Claire examine your skin and discuss the options before anything is agreed.
Treatments that may be considered
Every plan starts with an assessment. Individual results vary.
UltraClear laser
A fractional fibre laser that may be considered for skin texture, pigmentation and scarring after assessment at a St Kilda consultation.
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Synergie chemical peels
Professional-strength superficial peels used for pigmentation, skin texture and acne, chosen for your skin at a St Kilda consultation.
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Skin health
A tailored daily skincare regimen and sun protection plan, based on an assessment of your skin in St Kilda.
Discover moreRelated conditions
Important information
All medical and aesthetic procedures carry risk. Suitability, risks, recovery and expected outcomes are discussed in a private consultation with Dr Marie-Claire before any treatment is planned. Consultations are not available to anyone under 18. Individual results vary and no outcome is guaranteed.
Treatment is planned only after a full consultation, and options are discussed after assessment, only where clinically appropriate.
Start with a consultation.
Dr Marie-Claire will assess your skin, talk through your options and explain the risks before any treatment is planned.