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The first hour
Hours 2 to 24
Sun and SPF
Do and avoid
When to call us
Melasma is one of the most common reasons people come to see us, and one of the most frustrating conditions to live with. Understanding it is the first step to managing it well.
What melasma is
Melasma shows up as soft brown or grey patches, most often on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip. It is driven by hormones, sunlight and visible light, which is why it often appears during pregnancy or after starting the pill.
Melasma can be calmed and controlled, but it is rarely cured for good.
Why it comes back
The pigment cells in melasma are overactive. Heat, sun and hormonal shifts can switch them back on, even after a great result. That is why aggressive, high heat treatments can make it worse.
We plan melasma care in phases and review it with you at every visit, so changes are slow, steady and kind to your skin.
How we treat it
Gentle, low energy pico laser sessions
A prescription strength home routine
Strict daily SPF with iron oxides for visible light
Do
Cool compress for 10 minutes
Gentle cleanser, simple moisturiser
Mineral SPF every morning
Avoid
Hot showers, saunas and steam
Scrubs, acids and retinoids
Picking at any flaking skin
When to call us
Call us if
Please contact us if you notice blistering, ongoing swelling, or any unexpected skin reactions.
Our clinical line is open Monday to Saturday, 9 to 7 · +1 (415) 555 0126
Written by
Dr. Amelia Hart
Medical Director and board certified dermatologist. Amelia founded Nacre in 2016 and still reviews every treatment plan herself.
