Melasma

What is Melasma?

Melasma is a common skin condition that causes dark, discoloured patches to appear on the skin, primarily on the face. These patches are typically brown or grey-brown and most commonly found on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip. While anyone can develop melasma, it is particularly prevalent among women and those with darker skin tones.

According to a survey conducted in 2019, nearly 70% of respondents above 44 in Singapore indicated pigmentation/melasma as their top concern.*

_{*Survey results published by R. Hirschmann on Statica in 2024.}

What are the Types of Melasma?

Melasma is classified into three types based on the depth of pigmentation:

Epidermal Melasma

Epidermal melasma affects the outermost layer of the skin, appearing as dark brown patches with well-defined borders. The pigmentation is superficial, making it more responsive to topical treatments and procedures like chemical peels.

Dermal Melasma

Dermal melasma occurs in the deeper layers of the skin, presenting as light brown or bluish patches with less defined borders. The deeper pigmentation makes treating it more challenging, often requiring laser therapy for effective results.

Mixed Melasma

Mixed melasma combines both epidermal and dermal characteristics, showing dark and light brown patches. Treatment for mixed melasma typically involves a combination of topical treatments, chemical peels, and laser therapy to address pigment at multiple skin depths.

What are the Causes of Melasma?

Several factors can trigger or worsen melasma, including:

• Sun Exposure: UV rays stimulate melanocytes, increasing melanin production and leading to pigmentation.
• Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapy can cause melasma.
• Genetics: A family history of melasma increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
• Medications: Certain drugs can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, triggering melasma.

What are the Risk Factors of Melasma?

Several factors increase the risk of developing melasma, such as:

• Gender: Women are significantly more likely to develop melasma due to hormonal influences.
• Skin Type: Individuals with darker skin tones have more active melanocytes, making them more prone to pigmentation issues.
• Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy, contraceptive pills, and hormone replacement therapy can trigger or worsen melasma, often referred to as the “mask of pregnancy.”
• Sun Exposure: Frequent, unprotected sun exposure stimulates melanocytes, increasing melanin production and leading to dark patches characteristic of melasma.

What are the Symptoms of Melasma?

The main symptom of melasma is the appearance of discoloured patches on the skin. These patches are:

• Brown or grey-brown
• Symmetrical, often appearing on both sides of the face
• Located on the cheeks, forehead, nose, upper lip, and sometimes the neck and forearms

How Do Dermatologists Diagnose Melasma?

Dermatologists diagnose melasma through a visual examination of the affected areas. They may use a Wood’s lamp, highlighting the pigmentation’s extent and depth. In some cases, a skin biopsy may be performed to rule out other skin conditions.

Melasma vs Hyperpigmentation: What’s the Difference?

Melasma and hyperpigmentation involve dark patches on the skin but have different causes and characteristics.

Melasma is often triggered by hormonal changes and sun exposure and is characterised by symmetrical patches. In contrast, hyperpigmentation can result from acne, injury, inflammation, or other skin conditions, and typically appears as random, non-symmetrical spots.

Tips on How to Care for Melasma

Caring for melasma involves several key steps to manage and prevent the condition from worsening.

Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, such as our DNA Repair Sun Protection Face Wash Broad Spectrum SPF 30, every day, even on cloudy days or when indoors. Reapply every two hours when outdoors to ensure continuous protection.

Gentle Skincare: Use mild, non-irritating products formulated for sensitive skin to avoid over aggravation. Our illumia MD Range includes cleansers, hydrating and anti-ageing serums, and moisturisers suitable for acne-prone and hypersensitive skin.

Avoid Peak Sun Hours: Stay out of the sun between 10 AM and 4 PM when UV rays are strongest. If you need to be outside, seek shade and take extra precautions.

Wear Protective Clothing: Wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses to shield your face and eyes. Choose long-sleeved shirts and pants made from tightly woven fabrics for additional protection.

Safe and Effective Treatment for Melasma on Face in Singapore

Melasma treatment in Singapore offers several options, depending on the individual’s skin type and the severity of the condition:

• Topical Treatments: Daily use of creams and broad-spectrum sunscreen containing hydroquinone, tretinoin, corticosteroids, or a combination.
• Chemical Peels: Light to medium peels that remove the top layer of skin.
• Laser Therapy: Treatments that target and break down pigmentation.
• Microneedling: Enhances the absorption of topical treatments.

Melasma Pigmentation Removal Treatment: Cost, Price and Procedure in Singapore

The cost of melasma pigmentation treatment in Singapore varies based on the type of treatment and the number of sessions required. On average:

• Topical Treatments: S$50-S$200 per month
• Chemical Peels: S$150-S$500 per session
• Laser Therapy: S$300-S$800 per session
• Microneedling: S$200-S$600 per session

At illumia Medical, the treatment for melasma starts with an initial consultation and detailed skin assessment. Our doctors will advise on treatment options and draft a comprehensive treatment plan for you, including pre-treatment guidelines.

Sessions are conducted with careful monitoring, and post-treatment care instructions are given along with follow-up visits to support skin health improvement. For detailed pricing, you can view the full price list here.

At illumia Medical, different melasma treatments are available to help you target your concerns.