Skin

Melasma

Melasma is one of the most common pigmentation concerns, appearing as brown or grey-brown patches often across the face. It’s influenced by factors such as sun exposure, hormones and genetics, and requires expert management for best outcomes. At Contour Clinics, all treatments are delivered in medically accredited facilities, overseen by experienced doctors, with safety and hygiene at the forefront.

Your journey begins with a detailed consultation where we design a tailored plan to manage pigmentation long-term. If you’re considering treatment for melasma, book a consultation today and let our medical team guide you with suitable, evidenced-based options.

Doctor-led care in accredited medical facilities
Evidence-based technology, comprehensive bespoke treatment options, 3D skin analysis technology
Safety, hygiene, and patient wellbeing at every step

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Understanding Melasma

Melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation that presents as brown or greyish patches across the skin, most commonly on the cheeks, forehead, nose, or upper lip. Unlike freckles or sunspots, melasma is typically symmetrical and more diffuse.

Causes and Triggers

The exact cause of melasma is multifactorial. Contributing factors may include:

Sun exposure – ultraviolet light stimulates excess melanin production.
Hormones – pregnancy, contraceptive use, or hormonal changes can trigger melasma.
Genetics – a family history can increase risk.
Skin type – melasma is more common in medium to darker skin tones.
Other factors – heat, stress, and certain medications may exacerbate pigmentation.

Because melasma has complex triggers, it is best managed with a doctor-led, individualised treatment plan.

Treatment Options Q-Switch Laser

Q-Switch laser technology delivers ultra-short pulses of energy to selectively break down pigment without damaging surrounding skin. This allows gradual lightening of melasma patches, while also stimulating collagen for overall skin clarity.

How it works: Pigment particles absorb the energy and fragment, allowing the body’s natural processes to clear them.
Treatment plan: Typically delivered in a series of sessions spaced weeks apart.
Safety: Always performed in sterile conditions by experienced doctors, with careful adjustment for your skin type.

Q-Switch technology is particularly safe for melasma as it delivers energy in a highly targeted way, minimising heat spread and reducing the risk of rebound pigmentation compared with less selective laser options.

Read more about Q-Switch Laser treatments.

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Treatment Options Cosmelan® Peel

The Cosmelan® Peel is one of the most recognised treatments worldwide for stubborn pigmentation such as melasma.

How it works: A medical-grade peel applied in-clinic, followed by a home care protocol. It works by regulating melanin production and resurfacing uneven pigment.
Ideal for: Patients with diffuse pigmentation not responding to standard treatments.
Aftercare: Our doctors provide strict post-treatment guidelines to support recovery and results.

Cosmelan is considered safe for melasma because it uses a combination of depigmenting ingredients applied under medical supervision, allowing gradual reduction of pigment without causing excessive irritation or rebound pigmentation.

Treatment Options The Dermamelan Peel

The Dermamelan Peel is the stronger alternative to the Cosmelan Peel, designed for stubborn or resistant cases of melasma. While Cosmelan is highly effective for most patients, Dermamelan contains a more concentrated blend of depigmenting actives, making it ideal when pigmentation is deeper or hasn’t responded to other treatments.

Both peels work by regulating excess melanin and renewing the skin, but Dermamelan offers a more intensive approach with a structured at-home program to maximise results. Performed under strict medical supervision, it provides a safe, targeted solution for those seeking a stronger option.

Treatment options Crystal Peel

Crystal Peel is a superficial treatment formulated to target melasma, sun spots and the marks left behind by past breakouts. Salicylic, mandelic and citric acids work to exfoliate pigmented skin cells and support a clearer, more even-looking complexion. It can also address mild acne alongside its pigmentation focus.

How it works: Crystal Peel is applied in layers to clean, prepared skin, allowing your Skin & Laser Therapist to build the treatment to a level suited to your skin’s tolerance and pigmentation concern. As a salicylic acid peel, Crystal Peel is oil-soluble, allowing it to work within the pore itself, while mandelic and citric acids support gentler, more even exfoliation across the skin’s surface.

Ideal for: Generally suitable for all skin types and phototypes, once assessed by your Skin & Laser Therapist.

Downtime: Temporary redness, dryness or tightness is common for 3 to 7 days with peeling, depending on the number of layers applied.

A course of three and six peels spaced three to four weeks apart is often recommended, with intervals tailored to your skin’s response. Your Skin & Laser Therapist will discuss this with you and tailor your plan to suit your goals and skin’s needs.

Treatment Options Pigment Correct Peel

The Pigment Correct Peel is a specialised medical peel designed to target uneven pigmentation while gently resurfacing the skin.

How it works: Encourages cell turnover and renewal, gradually revealing clearer, more balanced skin.
Best suited to: Patients wanting a less intensive peel option than Cosmelan, with effective pigment correction.
Downtime: Generally mild peeling and redness for a few days.

The Pigment Correct Peel is uniquely designed for melasma because it works through a controlled, step-by-step exfoliation process that removes damaged surface cells while delivering brightening actives deep into the skin. This precise approach allows effective pigment reduction with minimal irritation, lowering the risk of rebound pigmentation.

Read more about The Pigment Correct Peel.

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Treatment Options Ilumaé Brightening Crème

The Brightening Crème is uniquely formulated for melasma because it works gradually to reduce uneven pigmentation without harsh irritation, making it suitable for long-term, consistent use. What sets the Ilumaé Brightening Crème apart is its unique combination of high-performance actives:

Vitamin C to support brighter, more even skin tone
4-n-Butylresorcinol (4nB), one of the most effective pigment-balancing agents available
Niacinamide to calm the skin and strengthen the barrier

This multi-layered approach not only addresses pigment but also supports overall skin health, making it a trusted option for those managing melasma.

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How Much Are Melasma Treatments?

The cost of melasma treatment varies depending on the approach best suited to your skin type, the severity of your pigmentation, and the number of sessions required. At Contour Clinics, we offer a tailored treatment plan designed by experienced doctors, ensuring that you receive safe, effective care in accredited medical facilities.

Prices

All consultations with our cosmetic doctors, nurses and dermal therapists are complimentary and obligation free.

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