Melasma is a skin condition where the skin produces excess melanin (pigment), resulting in brown or greyish patches on the cheeks, forehead, nose, upper lip, or jawline. It is especially common among women in tropical climates like Singapore due to higher sun exposure and ultraviolet (UV) index. Hormonal changes, ageing, and genetic factors play a part too.
Melasma is also called the “mask of pregnancy” as it often develops during pregnancy. However, melasma is not exclusive to women. It can affect both men and women at any stage of life.
Epidermal melasma
Epidermal melasma tends to affect the surface layer of the skin, appearing as dark brown patches with clearer, well-defined borders.
Dermal melasma
Dermal melasma sits deeper in the skin, creating bluish-grey or ash-brown patches with softer, blurred edges.
Mixed melasma
A combination of superficial and deeper pigmentation, mixed melasma shows both brown-grey patches and areas that vary in sharpness and depth.
Since each type of melasma behaves differently and sits at different depths within the skin, customised treatment plans are often recommended.
Several triggers can contribute to melasma:
Prolonged exposure to UV rays is the main cause of melasma in Singapore’s tropical climate. UV light causes melanocytes in our skin to overproduce melanin which lead to dark patches. Even a short few minutes of sun exposure without sun protection can worsen existing melasma, which is why it is important to wear and reapply sunscreen throughout the day.
Hormonal changes caused by pregnancy, contraceptive pills, or hormone therapy can trigger melasma. Many women first notice melasma during pregnancy. Contraceptive pills or hormone replacement therapy can also cause skin pigmentation because hormones like oestrogen and progesterone stimulate melanin production. For some, melasma fades and its condition improves when hormone levels stabilise, but for others, it may persist without treatment.
If you have a family history of skin pigmentation or melasma, you will be at a higher risk of having it too. Research shows that people with darker skin types (such as Asian, Hispanic, or people with Middle Eastern backgrounds) are more prone to melasma because their skin produces more melanin naturally. This genetic predisposition means that even minimal sun exposure or hormonal changes can trigger melasma formation.
Harsh skincare products or treatments can irritate the skin and worsen pigmentation. When the skin is irritated, it activates pigment cells to worsen existing melasma. This is why gentle skincare is important when managing pigmentation issues.
Infrared heat from cooking, saunas, or hot yoga, as well as blue light from electronic devices may also exacerbate melasma. While the effects are less intense as compared to UV exposure, they can still contribute to stubborn melasma over time.
Here are some of the common melasma treatment options in Singapore.
Topical products such as pigment-correcting creams, antioxidants, and ingredients that regulate melanin production may help lighten patches gradually. Daily sunscreen use is essential, as ultraviolet (UV) exposure is a major trigger for melasma. Consistent home care forms the foundation of any melasma treatment plan.
When home care and topical skincare is not enough, in-clinic melasma removal methods may be recommended. These include chemical peels, brightening facials, and non-surgical melasma laser treatments.
Melasma does not look the same for everyone. Doctors generally classify melasma based on where pigmentation sits in the skin and this influences how persistent it may and how the melasma should be treated during consultation.
At Halley Medical Aesthetics, our doctor will customise melasma treatments to help patients work towards clearer, more evenly-toned skin. Each plan is tailored to the type of melasma and may involve a combination of methods.
Choosing a melasma removal treatment starts with understanding how your pigmentation behaves. During the consultation, the doctor will review your skin condition and explain which options are appropriate, guiding you through the next steps based on your assessment.
The cost varies based on the type of treatment prescribed, such as pico laser, fractional non-ablative laser, or combination programmes. You can view our price list for more information.
The number of sessions depends on factors such as the type of melasma (epidermal, dermal, or mixed), its depth, and how your skin responds to treatment. Melasma removal typically requires multiple sessions and consistent sun protection to maintain results. Your doctor will advise on a suitable treatment schedule.
Side effects may include temporary redness, a warm sensation on your skin, or light flaking as the skin renews. These effects usually resolve on their own within a few days. Your doctor will provide aftercare instructions to help support smooth recovery.
Most non-surgical laser treatments can be adjusted to accommodate different skin types, but suitability depends on the device used and the type of pigmentation. A consultation helps determine the safest and most appropriate approach for your concerns.
Yes, many individuals combine melasma-focused care with treatments that support hydration, texture, or overall skin clarity. Skin-brightening facials or hydrating skin boosters may be recommended to complement melasma management.
Melasma is a stubborn pigmentation condition, but with the right melasma treatment in Singapore, it can be effectively managed. From pico lasers and RF microneedling to topical creams and sun protection, our patients have access to a wide range of safe and effective solutions.
Book an appointment and consult our doctors for a customised treatment plan.
