What Is Melasma?
Melasma is a chronic skin condition that causes patches of brown, gray-brown, or tan discoloration — most commonly on the face. It often appears on the cheeks, upper lip, forehead, and jawline in a symmetrical pattern. Unlike typical sun spots or acne scarring, melasma is hormonally driven and tends to be more persistent.
It’s most common in women, particularly during or after pregnancy, while taking hormonal birth control, or during periods of hormonal fluctuation. It also affects individuals with medium to deep skin tones more frequently.
Why It Matters
Melasma can be especially frustrating because of how stubborn and recurring it is. Even after fading, it can return with sun exposure, heat, or hormonal shifts. The discoloration is often visible through makeup, affecting how even or radiant the skin looks. For many patients, melasma impacts self-confidence and becomes a long-term concern that requires regular care.
What Causes It?
- Hormonal fluctuations: Pregnancy, birth control, and hormone therapy can trigger melasma.
- Sun and heat exposure: UV rays and infrared heat stimulate melanocytes (pigment-producing cells).
- Genetic predisposition: Some people are simply more prone to developing melasma.
- Inflammation or irritation: Harsh treatments or chronic inflammation can worsen pigmentation.
The Importance of Early and Ongoing Treatment
Melasma won’t resolve on its own — and using the wrong treatments can sometimes make it worse. Early intervention with safe, pigment-focused treatments and consistent sun protection can prevent it from deepening or spreading. Long-term results come from a blend of in-office treatments and ongoing home care tailored to your skin type and triggers.
How Injector 5280 Can Help
We use a pigment-safe, customized approach for melasma that focuses on calming the skin, fading discoloration, and preventing future flare-ups. Depending on your skin tone, severity, and triggers, we may recommend a combination of the following:
BBL (BroadBand Light)
BBL uses targeted light energy to gently fade melasma and other pigment irregularities. It’s best used in fall or winter months and is typically recommended for lighter skin tones to reduce the risk of rebound pigmentation.
BioRePeel
This no-downtime TCA peel is safe for all skin tones and particularly well-suited for melasma-prone skin. It brightens without triggering inflammation, making it ideal for sensitive or reactive patients needing gentle but effective pigment control.
Perfect Derma™ Peel
A medium-depth peel containing TCA, kojic acid, and glutathione to fade melasma, sun damage, and uneven tone. It helps lighten diffuse patches and promotes smoother, clearer skin over time with a short recovery period.
Perfect Derma™ Peel Plus Plus
This advanced version of the original peel is enhanced with 4% hydroquinone to treat deeply rooted or stubborn melasma. Best suited for patients with resilient or oily skin who haven’t responded to other treatments.
SkinPen® Microneedling
SkinPen promotes healthy skin turnover and collagen renewal, which gradually reduces pigmentation and improves tone. It’s gentle enough for melasma and helps prepare the skin for better absorption of brightening topicals.
Scarlet SRF Microneedling
By combining microneedling with radiofrequency energy, Scarlet SRF remodels the skin’s structure and controls pigment activity. It reduces melanin production and supports long-term tone correction with less risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Microneedling with Exosome Therapy
Exosomes contain natural signaling molecules that calm inflammation, regulate pigment production, and enhance skin repair. When combined with microneedling, they help reduce melasma severity and improve skin resilience.
Learn more about Scarlet SRF Microneedling with Exosome Therapy »
Learn more about SkinPen® Microneedling with Exosome Therapy »
Your Next Step
Melasma is complex — but highly manageable with the right care. Book a consultation at Injector 5280 to get a customized treatment plan that’s gentle, effective, and tailored to your skin’s unique needs. Let’s help you restore your confidence and clarity.