A Gentle, Steady Approach to Melasma
Melasma is a common form of hyperpigmentation that appears as brown or gray-brown patches, usually on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. It is linked to hormones, sun, and heat, and it tends to return, so it responds best to patient, consistent care.
Melasma isn't the same as ordinary sun spots, and aggressive treatment can make it darker. A physician-led plan usually starts gently, with prescription-strength topical therapy when appropriate, carefully chosen peels, and strict sun and visible-light protection.
Any pigmented spot that is raised, irregular, or changing is evaluated rather than lightened, and referred to a dermatologist when needed. This page is educational and is not a diagnosis.
What You May Notice
- Symmetric brown or gray-brown patches
- Patches on the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip
- Darkening after sun or heat exposure
- Patches that appeared during pregnancy or with hormone changes
Common Contributing Factors
- Hormonal changes, including pregnancy and birth control
- Sun and visible-light exposure
- Heat
- Genetics and skin type
- Irritation from harsh products
Treatments that may be discussed
Care at RANDALI is whole-person and physician-directed. The options below are starting points a provider may explore with you, not a diagnosis, a recommendation, or a guaranteed outcome. Your plan is personalized and determined together during your consultation.
Knowing when to refer
Part of our care is knowing when a dermatologist’s office is the right next step. Advanced or complex cases are referred to a board-certified dermatologist, and we help coordinate the handoff. We refer when we see:
- Pigment that is raised, irregular, or changing
- An uncertain diagnosis, where the pigment may be another condition
- Melasma that doesn't respond to a reasonable course of care
Frequently Asked Questions
How is melasma treated at RANDALI?
With a physician-led plan that may include prescription-strength topical therapy when appropriate, gentle peels, medical-grade skincare, and daily sun protection. Your provider tailors the plan at consultation.
Will melasma come back?
Melasma often returns, especially with sun, heat, or hormonal change. Maintenance and daily protection are part of keeping results.
Why not just use a laser?
Heat-based treatments can sometimes make melasma darker. We start with gentler measures and discuss anything more only when it is appropriate for your skin.
The information on this page is educational only and is not medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment recommendation. It does not create a provider-patient relationship. Individual results vary, and any treatment plan is personalized and determined with a RANDALI provider during your consultation.
Start with a conversation
Every plan at RANDALI is individualized and determined during your consultation.
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