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Melasma Melasma Moderate 4 min read

Melasma

Treatment for melasma and hormonal pigmentation.

Melasma

Duration

Long-term management

Common Age

20s to 40s, more common in women

Recovery

2–5 days

Severity

Moderate

Understanding Melasma

Melasma is a common pigmentation disorder that causes brown or gray-brown patches on the face, typically on the cheeks, forehead, bridge of the nose, and upper lip. It is more common in women and is often triggered by hormonal changes, sun exposure, and genetics. While melasma is harmless, it can cause significant cosmetic concern. At Dermacian Jaipur, we offer advanced treatments to lighten melasma and restore even skin tone.

Signs & Symptoms

Brown or gray-brown patches on sun-exposed areas of the face
Symmetrical patches on both sides of the face
Commonly affects cheeks, forehead, nose bridge, and upper lip
Sometimes appears on the neck and forearms
Patches darken with sun exposure and lighten in winter
More noticeable in summer months

Causes & Risk Factors

1

Hormonal changes — pregnancy (the mask of pregnancy), birth control pills, hormone therapy

2

Sun exposure — UV light stimulates melanin production, worsening melasma

3

Genetics — family history increases susceptibility

4

Female hormones — melasma is much more common in women than men

5

Thyroid disorders — may contribute to melasma development

6

Certain medications — photosensitizing drugs can trigger pigmentation

7

Skincare products — some fragrances and cosmetics can cause phototoxic reactions

When to See a Dermatologist

  • You notice brown patches on your face that aren’t fading
  • Pigmentation is affecting your appearance and confidence
  • You are pregnant and developing facial pigmentation
  • Over-the-counter lightening creams aren’t working
  • Melasma recurs after initial treatment
  • You want a proper diagnosis and treatment plan
Schedule a Consultation →

Treatment Options at Dermacian

1

Topical Depigmenting Agents

Prescription creams containing hydroquinone, tretinoin, kojic acid, azelaic acid, or combination formulas (Kligman formula) to lighten pigmentation over 8–12 weeks.

2

Chemical Peels

Glycolic acid, mandelic acid, or TCA peels that exfoliate pigmented layers and promote new, even-toned skin. A series of 4–6 peels is recommended.

3

Laser Toning

Q-Switched Nd:YAG laser that targets melanin to break down pigmentation. Multiple sessions needed, spaced 1–2 weeks apart.

4

Oral Tranexamic Acid

A newer treatment for stubborn melasma that works by reducing melanocyte activation. Prescribed under medical supervision.

5

Microneedling with Depigmenting Serums

Enhances penetration of lightening agents while stimulating skin renewal for improved results.

6

Triple Combination Cream

A customized formulation combining hydroquinone, tretinoin, and a steroid for short-term intensive treatment under dermatologist supervision.

Prevention & Management Tips

Sun protection is critical — apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen every 2 hours during sun exposure
Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses outdoors
Avoid direct sun exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM
Use medical-grade skincare with vitamin C, niacinamide, and alpha arbutin
Avoid waxing or threading areas with melasma — inflammation worsens pigmentation
Discuss hormone medications with your doctor if melasma is triggered by birth control
Maintain treatment even after melasma fades — it tends to recur without maintenance
Dr. Vivek Rungta

Doctor's Note

"Melasma is stubborn and sun-sensitive. Sunscreen is non-negotiable, and results come with patience and consistency."

— Dr. Vivek Rungta, Dermatologist & Hair Transplant Specialist

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Patient Stories

What Our Patients Say

"Visited here to consult Skin ulcers on the hands. Both hands are in very bad situation. Consulted many doctors and hospitals without any improvement. Thanks to Dr Vivek Rungta for treating this difficult and rare disease."

— शंकर शाहू

"Results are very goods in pigmentation"

— Zohra Khan

"In my opinion Dr Vivek Rungta is the excellent skin and cosmetic surgeon. He do very clean skin surgeries, his expertise in laser skin treatments is class apart. Results of Laser treatment depends not only on the quality of the machine but also on expert hands of the treating person, who can effectively use that device and bring the best results out of it. That's why my first choice is Dermacian Clinic where all the laser machine are imported from the best companies in the world and doctor is trained to operate all these expensive Laser machines. Recommended to everyone who is looking for best skin laser treatments."

— Jp Kashyap

Questions & Answers

FAQs About Melasma in Jaipur

Can melasma be cured permanently?
Melasma cannot be permanently cured, but it can be significantly lightened with treatment. Ongoing sun protection and maintenance skincare are essential to prevent recurrence. Some melasma fades naturally after pregnancy or stopping hormones.
Is melasma related to pregnancy?
Yes, melasma is common during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. It is often called the "mask of pregnancy." Pregnancy-related melasma may fade after delivery, but often requires treatment for complete clearing.
How long does melasma treatment take?
Topical treatments show results in 8–12 weeks. Chemical peels and laser treatments show improvement after 3–4 sessions. Complete clearing may take 3–6 months of consistent treatment and maintenance.
Will melasma come back after treatment?
Melasma can recur with sun exposure or hormonal changes. Strict sun protection and maintenance treatments (topical creams, occasional peels) are essential to maintain results long-term.
4.9 Rating · 909 Happy Patients

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