Melasma, a type of hyperpigmentation, is a skin condition that causes dark splotches on the skin that contrast with the lightness of the surrounding unaffected skin. Melasma, also referred to as “chloasma” or the “pregnancy mask,” are dark, discoloured spots that range in size from tiny, freckle-like dots to large patches. Melasma most commonly appears on the cheeks, forehead, chin, and bridge of the nose, but it can also be found on the forearms and neck.
Treatment is chosen to match the depth of the pigment and the patient’s skin tone, and usually combines an in-clinic procedure with daily sun protection and a topical regimen at home. A course of chemical peel sessions is a common starting point, while laser and light-based options are used with more care on deeper skin tones because heat can worsen pigment. Melasma in particular is managed rather than cured, so maintenance matters as much as the initial course.
Ultraviolet and visible light are the strongest triggers for melasma, and they will undo a course of treatment faster than anything else. Daily broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher is considered part of the treatment rather than an optional extra, and tinted mineral sunscreens containing iron oxide add protection against the visible light that ordinary sunscreens miss. Reapplication through the day matters more than the number on the bottle.
Most people need a course rather than a single visit. Peels are typically done in a series of four to six spaced a few weeks apart, while laser and light-based options often achieve a similar result in two to four sessions. Your provider will judge progress between visits and adjust, because pushing too hard can darken pigment rather than lighten it.
Yes, but the choice of treatment matters a great deal. Deeper skin tones carry a higher risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, so many providers favour gentler peels, topical regimens, and lasers validated for darker skin over aggressive resurfacing. If laser skin resurfacing is being considered, ask specifically about the provider’s experience with your skin type and about test patching.
Melasma is a chronic condition, so recurrence is common, particularly after sun exposure, pregnancy, or a change in hormonal contraception. Other forms of hyperpigmentation, such as marks left by acne or an injury, usually clear more permanently once the underlying cause has settled. Ongoing sun protection and a maintenance regimen are what keep results stable.
Melasma is a common type of hyperpigmentation caused by excessive melanin production. Melanin is responsible for skin darkening, areas of the skin with excess of melanocytes will overproduce melanin and darken the affected skin. Melasma can also be caused by hormonal changes, including pregnancy and the use of oral contraceptives. While hyperpigmentation poses no serious health risks, it can have a negative impact on a person’s confidence and self-esteem.
You may be a good candidate for hyperpigmentation & melasma treatment if you have:
Skin concerns such as dark spots/ splotches, skin discoloration, & pigmentation
Age spots, referred to as “liver spots”
Realistic goals and expectations
Are committed to long-term maintenance
Good overall health
There are several treatment options available to treat hyperpigmentation and melasma. Some common types of treatments include:
Chemical peels – This treatment, also known as skin peels, reduces the appearance of dark spots and can be effective in treating pigmentation issues by rejuvenating and restoring the surface of skin.
Laser treatments – Laser treatments, such as laser resurfacing or IPL, address the source of the problem by stimulating natural biological processes that work to correct the issue and revitalize the skin.
Topical treatments – Topical de-pigmentation treatments, such as Cosmelan or SylfirmX, can often soften or eliminate mild to severe pigmentation. The treatment improves skin luminosity and tone while reducing melasma and post-inflammatory pigmentation.
Physician grade skin care products – A customized regimen addressing pigmentation concerns can be followed at home using products and treatment kits designed to help the skin become clearer and more even-toned, resulting in visible results.
While there is no cure for melasma, the results of treatment can help improve the appearance of the skin. Melasma will typically lighten and fade over several weeks or months. However, in some cases, discoloration may become darker before becoming lighter. For some individuals, improving their melasma may necessitate ongoing professional treatments.
Treatments for hyperpigmentation and melasma are relatively safe, but with any cosmetic treatment there are potential risks. Some of the risks and side effects include, but are not limited to:
Redness of the skin
Slight swelling
Skin sensitivity
More hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation
The cost of treatment for hyperpigmentation & melasma depends on the type of treatment received and the total number of treatment sessions. The cost of hyperpigmentation & melasma treatments in Canada range between $200 to $2,500.
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