Melasma
A chronic pigmentation condition producing symmetrical brown or greyish patches, usually across the cheeks, forehead, upper lip or jawline. It is influenced by hormones, heat and light, it recurs, and it is worsened by aggressive treatment.
Why it is different
- It is hormonally driven — pregnancy, oral contraceptives and hormonal changes are common triggers, which is why it is far more common in women
- Heat triggers it, not just UV — cooking, hot showers, sun exposure through car windows and even hot devices used during a facial can aggravate it, which is why treatments that work for other pigmentation can worsen melasma
- Visible light matters — ordinary daylight, and to a degree screens, contribute; standard sunscreen alone is often insufficient, which is why dermatologists frequently recommend tinted formulations containing iron oxide
- It recurs — melasma is managed rather than cured. Anyone promising to clear it permanently is not being honest with you.
What makes it worse
- Aggressive peels
- Laser without proper assessment
- Heat of any kind
- Scrubbing
- Inconsistent sun protection
- Stopping treatment as soon as it improves
- Over-the-counter fairness and steroid products
What helps
- Consistent dermatologist-led treatment
- Rigorous daily sun protection, ideally tinted
- Heat avoidance
- Gentle rather than aggressive intervention
- Long-term maintenance rather than short bursts
Frequently asked
How do I know if I have melasma or ordinary pigmentation?
Melasma is usually symmetrical, appearing in matching patches on both sides of the face, with soft irregular edges. Ordinary sun pigmentation is more scattered and less symmetrical. A dermatologist can confirm properly.
Can melasma be cured?
No. It is managed. It improves with consistent treatment and recurs when treatment stops or triggers return. Anyone claiming a cure is not being straight with you.
Can I have a facial or peel if I have melasma?
Only gentle, carefully selected treatment, and ideally in coordination with the dermatologist managing you. Aggressive treatment reliably makes melasma worse.
Does laser help melasma?
Sometimes, in specific circumstances and under dermatologist direction. It can also make it considerably worse. It is not a decision to make casually.
Why does it come back every summer?
Heat and light are triggers, and both increase in Chennai's hotter months. Consistent protection year-round is the answer.
Will Aglow treat my melasma?
We will assess you and refer you to a dermatologist. If they confirm a supportive role for gentle in-clinic care, we will provide it in coordination with them.
Related concerns
Related treatments
Results vary from person to person. Some concerns need a dermatologist rather than a Wellness treatment we'll say so at consultation.
Every visit at Aglow starts with an honest answer.
A free 15 to 30 minute skin assessment a plain explanation, a protocol and a session count whether or not you book on the day.