About Melasma Treatment Services:
Melasma is famously stubborn, and treating it wrong—with harsh products or the wrong procedures—can actually make it darker. At Charleston Dermatology, our physicians and providers confirm the diagnosis, identify your triggers, and set realistic expectations from the start.
Melasma is managed, not cured, and the patients who do best combine consistent treatment with daily, non-negotiable sun protection. Treatment plans are built around your skin, not a one-size-fits-all routine, and may include prescription lightening creams, combination topical therapy, chemical peels, and oral medication in select cases.
A tinted mineral sunscreen is part of every plan. Brighter, more even skin starts with the right approach. Schedule a visit and let our team build a plan that actually works for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is melasma?
Melasma is a pigmentation disorder in which patches of skin produce excess melanin, creating tan, brown, or grayish patches — most often on both sides of the face in a symmetrical pattern. It’s sometimes called the “mask of pregnancy” because hormonal changes commonly trigger it.
What causes melasma?
Sun exposure is the biggest driver, and even small amounts of daily UV and visible light can maintain it. Hormones matter too: pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormone therapy are common triggers. Genetics play a role, and melasma is more common in women and in medium to darker skin tones.
How is melasma treated?
Treatment usually starts with prescription topical combinations that reduce pigment production, paired with strict daily sun protection — ideally a tinted mineral sunscreen that blocks visible light as well as UV. Chemical peels and oral tranexamic acid may be added for resistant cases. Improvement takes weeks to months, and maintenance is ongoing, but with consistency most patients see real results!