Melasma
What is melasma?
All medical procedures carry risks. Possible side effects include:
- Local pain, swelling or bruising
- Temporary weakness (especially in palm area) — discussed beforehand
- Rare: infection, allergic reaction
- Not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in people with neuromuscular disorders
These risks and how to manage them are reviewed in detail during consultation.
Why melasma needs specialist care
Melasma isn’t just surface-level pigmentation — it’s a complex skin condition that demands precise diagnosis and expert treatment.
Accurate diagnosis
Melasma can easily be mistaken for other pigmentation problems. It’s vital to see a dermatologist to get the correct diagnosis — ensuring you receive the right treatment for your specific condition.
Targeted treatments
Dermatologists are best equipped to treat melasma because they have specialist training and access to advanced laser technology and medical therapies that safely target the deeper causes of pigmentation.
Ongoing management
Melasma often requires ongoing care and monitoring. Specialists provide support using medical-grade cosmeceuticals and recommend daily sunscreen use to manage triggers and reduce flare-ups over time.
What to expect during treatment
Melasma treatment typically involves a series of laser sessions spaced several weeks apart, with each session lasting 20 to 30 minutes. You may feel a mild warming or tingling sensation during the procedure, but it is generally well tolerated. Topical anaesthetic is used, so no injections are needed, and downtime is very minimal. After treatment, you may experience some redness or mild swelling, but these effects usually subside quickly. We will provide clear aftercare instructions to support healing and optimise results.
Most patients see gradual improvement over multiple sessions, with long-lasting reduction in pigmentation when combined with proper skincare and sun protection.
Who can benefit?
Melasma affects people with various skin types, but it’s most common in those with medium to darker complexions. While the exact cause of melasma isn’t fully understood, it is often secondary to factors like sun exposure, genetics, and hormonal changes such as pregnancy.
Suitable for all skin types
Our treatments are effective and safe for a wide range of skin tones, including medium to darker complexions prone to melasma.
Hormonal and environmental factors
We understand melasma often worsens with hormonal changes or sun exposure, so our care includes managing triggers.
Proven, lasting results
With specialist care and ongoing management, many patients achieve significant, long-term improvement in pigmentation.
Why choose us for melasma?
All medical procedures carry risks. Possible side effects include:
- Local pain, swelling or bruising
- Temporary weakness (especially in palm area) — discussed beforehand
- Rare: infection, allergic reaction
- Not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or in people with neuromuscular disorders
These risks and how to manage them are reviewed in detail during consultation.
Before & afters
Our most commonly asked questions
Melasma is often triggered by hormonal changes, sun exposure, and genetic factors. It appears as dark patches, usually on the face, and can be persistent without specialist treatment.
Yes. We use advanced Korean Pico lasers designed to target pigmentation precisely, minimising risk and protecting healthy skin.
Most patients require multiple sessions spaced weeks apart. The exact number depends on your skin type, melasma severity, and how your skin responds to treatment.
Melasma can recur, especially with sun exposure or hormonal changes. That’s why ongoing management and sun protection are essential parts of care.
Some melasma treatments provided by qualified dermatologists are eligible for Medicare rebates. We’ll discuss your options during your consultation.
Ready to take the next step in your skincare?
Whether it’s pigmentation, scarring, rosacea or skin cancer, we’ll provide a clear diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to your skin’s needs. Call us today or book a consultation to start your specialist care.