Melasma
Melasma is one of the most common and complex hyperpigmentation concerns among women, particularly those with richer Indian skin tones. Characterized by symmetrical brown or dark grey patches on the cheeks, bridge of the nose, forehead, and upper lip, melasma can be deeply frustrating because it cannot be simply “scrubbed away” and has a high tendency to flare up unexpectedly.
In a modern derma-wellness philosophy, treating melasma is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires shifting away from aggressive, skin-stripping treatments toward a gentle, highly strategic protocol that calms hyperactive pigment cells rather than irritating them.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, but it can be beautifully managed into long-term remission. Melasma is a chronic condition, meaning your pigment cells retain a memory of being hyperactive. While we can completely clear the visible patches using lasers and peels, consistent sun protection and maintenance care are required to keep it from returning.
Because of iron oxides. Clear chemical or physical sunscreens protect against UV rays, but they do not block visible light (like blue light from your phone or heat from a kitchen stove). Tinted sunscreens contain iron oxides, which act as a physical shield against visible light, stopping it from triggering your melasma cells.
In some cases, melasma triggered strictly by pregnancy hormones can fade naturally a few months after childbirth once hormone levels stabilize. However, for many women, the pigmentation persists or is worsened by subsequent sun exposure, requiring professional intervention to fully clear.
They Can Help You
Because Indian skin is highly prone to Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH), aggressive chemical peels or incorrect laser settings can actually make melasma worse. Dr. Anurag utilizes a strict, evidence-based, low-energy approach to gently clear pigment and stabilize the melanocytes.
