Top 3 Best Treatments for Melasma on Face Recommended by Dermatologists

June 11, 2025

Dr. Shraddha Pitalia

3 min read

21

Best treatments for melasma on face

Have you started noticing brown or greyish patches on your cheeks, forehead, or upper lip? If so, you are not alone, and you may be dealing with a skin condition known as melasma. Though not medically harmful, melasma can often cause emotional discomfort and affect your personal image. For some people, the more it is noticed by others, the more emotional well-being is impacted. The real challenge? The search for the best treatments for melasma on face, which will work for the skin type and concern of the patient. With numerous melasma treatments available, ranging from creams to advanced lasers, patients often feel overwhelmed, especially when visible results take time.  Here is the good news: facial melasma can be managed with the proper guidance from a dermatologist; you can certainly regain clear and even-toned skin. This blog will help you find the best melasma treatment solutions that work to treat facial melasma.

Be it advanced skincare products, in-clinic solutions, or a combination of the two, you’re on the right path. This blog lays out all of the best treatments for melasma on the face today, helps you understand how to treat facial melasma, and explains why the best treatment for melasma is not a one-size-fits-all solution. So, you make informed decisions and take steps towards radiant skin. We will explore the top three treatment options, clinically proven, dermatologist-approved, and carefully selected to help you treat facial melasma effortlessly.

What is melasma, and why does it occur?

Melasma manifests as uneven brown or gray-brown pigmentation, primarily affecting facial regions such as the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and nose bridge. These patches come into existence due to an overproduction of melanin, the pigment that colors one’s skin, hair, and eyes.

Melanocytes are specialized skin cells found in the deepest layers of the skin. Usually, melanocytes release melanin evenly to nearby skin cells, so an even skin tone is maintained. In individuals with melasma, these cells become overactive and overproduce melanin in one spot, while other areas receive very little, with the imbalance showing as discoloration.

Although the exact mechanisms of melasma are still unknown, research goes on to say that it holds many internal and external predisposing triggers. Hormonal changes, such as those occurring during pregnancy, birth control pill usage, and sun exposure, are the contributing factors in melasma. Other contributors include genetic predisposition, certain medical intake, and stress.

How is melasma different from hyperpigmentation?

Melasma falls under the broader category of hyperpigmentation, but the two have distinct characteristics, causes, and treatment approaches.

FactorsHyperpigmentationMelasma
Common TriggersAcne scars, sun burns, eczema and woundsHormonal fluctuations, sun exposure and genetics.
Hormonal influenceNot alwaysStrongly linked to estrogen and progesterone
Photo sensitivityMay or may not be sensitive to sun lightHighly sun sensitive 
AppearanceAnywhere on the bodyMainly on the cheeks, forehead, nose bridge, chin, and upper lip

Must Read: Difference Between Melasma and Pigmentation: A Guide to Skin Discoloration

Signs and Symptoms of Melasma

Signs and symptoms of melasma
  • Darker patches than your natural skin tone
  • Typically appears on both sides of the face
  • Affects larger, more defined areas than regular pigmentation
  • Uneven distribution of color (can vary in intensity)
  • Becomes more visible with sun exposure
  • More common in medium to darker skin tones, but can affect men and light-skinned individuals as well.

How to treat facial melasma?

Let’s find out the best treatments to address melasma on the face. The below are the treatments offered by Evenly Skin and Hair Clinic that are both safe and effective. Let’s walk through the best treatments for melasma on the face, based on current dermatological standards and our in-clinic expertise.

Best Treatments for Melasma on Face

Start with the right expert: Dermatologist Consultation

To begin treating melasma properly, it’s essential to consult a dermatologist who has deep expertise in pigmentation conditions. At Evenly Clinic, our expert dermatologists conduct a thorough skin analysis to the extent that they can determine:

  • The depth of the pigment (epidermal, dermal, or mixed-type)
  • Triggering factors (like sun exposure, hormones, and lifestyle factors)
  • The type of your skin and its reaction to sensitivity

After this, these factors are taken into account while preparing a treatment plan that will be most suitable to yield good results with melasma of the face.

Medical-Grade Topical Agents: Foundation of Melasma Care

Topical depigmenting agents are generally the first-line treatment for melasma. At Evenly Clinic, our dermatologists prescribe dermatologist-formulated creams after carefully assessing the patient’s skin type and pigmentation severity. The formulated creams include

  • Hydroquinone: This is the most potent skin-lightening ingredient that helps to target the pigmented area, inhibiting melanin production.
  • Azelaic acid, kojic acid, and glycolic acid: These ingredients are milder but effective. They help gently exfoliate the skin, reducing melanin production. This is mostly prescribed for individuals with sensitive skin.
  • Kojic Acid: It is a powerful natural skin brightener that inhibits tyrosinase activity. This ingredient is derived from natural resources like fungi, so using it won’t harm the skin.
  • Retinoids (like tretinoin): These are vitamin A derivatives that improve overall skin texture and tone by increasing the cell turnover and effectiveness of other depigmented agents.

These ingredients are often prescribed as a combination to target melasma at multiple levels. Consistent use of these creams with proper guidance can help you get noticeable results, but remember this works well in combination with other in-clinic procedures.

Professional Chemical Peels—Exfoliating Resurfaces for Radiant Skin

For patients struggling with epidermal melasma or superficial pigmentation, chemical peels can offer immediate results, such as epitomizing their skin color and tone by reducing extra pigmentation. At Evenly Clinic, our dermatologist-administered peels are done with

  • Glycolic Acid: An alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), it exfoliates the accumulated pigmented surface skin cells and speeds up the process of skin rejuvenation.
  • Mandelic Acid: Great for all sensitive skin types and for melasma under the eyes.
  • Lactic Acid: Provides gentle exfoliation with bonus moisture—perfect for dry, discolored skin.
  • TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid): A medium-depth peel used for more resistant pigmentation and melasma, helping improve skin tone, texture, and clarity.

Our peels are tailored to your skin sensitivity, pigment depth, and treatment history. Level 1 and 2 professional peels at Evenly provide well-controlled, safe, effective exfoliation with little to no downtime.

Laser Toning with Q-Switched ND YAG Laser: Targeted Treatment for Deep Melasma

A dermatologist performing Q switched ND YAG laser - laser toning treatment

At Evenly Clinic, our experts use advanced Q-switched Nd: YAG lasers for melasma treatment. It’s the most recommended laser option for persistent melasma—safe, targeted, and effective. Here’s a closer look at the process and results.

  • Selective Photothermolysis: The laser energy is delivered in quick pulses that disrupt melanin deposits, leaving surrounding skin undamaged.
  • Collagen Stimulation: Promotes ongoing skin remodeling and improves skin texture.
  • Quick Recovery: No downtime required—most patients report minor redness that typically disappears within a few hours.

When melasma is on the forehead or when the condition presents itself as deeper dermal pigmentation resistant to topical agents and chemical peels, Q-switched laser toning is recommended. To achieve the best results, we usually advise a course of 6-8 sessions, scheduled anywhere from 2–4 weeks apart.

At Evenly, we also use an erbium laser for melasma treatment.

Sun protection

No matter which treatment you take, proper sun protection is essential in every melasma treatment plan. Without adequate UV protection in place, the most effective treatments can be compromised. Here’s our best guidance:

  • Broad-spectrum physical sunscreens that include zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are best.
  • Reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours, especially during increased sun exposure or after sweating.
  • Wear protective wear such as wide-brimmed hats, UV protective sunglasses, and scarves. Avoid the sun during midday hours, especially from 10 AM to 4 PM.

At Evenly, we support every patient with an individualized sun protection strategy—including which sunscreen products are best for their skin type and lifestyle.

Must Read: How to Prevent Melasma on Face: Tips and Best Treatment

Why Choose Evenly Clinic to Treat Facial Melasma?

Unlike other clinics, Evenly Clinic offers a medically driven dermatologist-approved, patient-centric approach to treating facial melasma. Take a look at what makes us unique:

  • Treatments tailored to each type and depth of melasma
  • Advanced Q-switched laser technology handled by trained experts
  • Customized peels and topical prescriptions for optimal results
  • In-house dermatologist monitoring and follow-up care
  • Transparent treatment protocols with evidence-based outcomes

We recognize that each case of melasma is different. That’s why our treatment doesn’t just focus on visible pigment; it addresses the root cause and prevents recurrence for long-term skin clarity.

Evenly’s Before and After Images of Melasma Patient

Closely look at these pictures and notice the transformation—
from uneven, irregular dark patches to smooth, even-toned, radiant skin.

Melasma can feel like an uphill and never-ending battle, but with the combination of the right expertise and the best treatment melasma, clearer skin is within reach. Whether you are dealing with light, mild pigmentation or dark, stubborn melasma patches, the team at Evenly Clinic is here to choose the best treatments for melasma on the face safely, effectively, and confidently.

Are you in search of “how to treat facial melasma?” Transform your skin with Evenly Clinic—reserve your consultation for a radiant, healthy glow.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The best treatment is based on the depth and severity of the pigmentation.

It cannot be cured permanently, but with the right treatment, lifestyle changes, and proper skincare, it can be managed and lightened.

Yes, Q-switched ND: YAG laser technology is a safe and effective treatment option when performed by an experienced dermatologist.

No, melasma is different in appearance, size, and behaviour. Freckles and sunspots appear as small skin spots that result exclusively from UV exposure.

Melasma is more common in women, but it also develops in men.

We hope this information is helpful. If you have any skin and hair-related questions or would like to discuss personalized solutions, please reach out to us at 7337899030. Our team of experts is dedicated to providing personalized care that meets your unique needs. Take the first step towards a healthier, more confident you by scheduling a consultation with us today. Your journey to vibrant skin and stronger hair begins here.

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