What is Melasma Treatment?

Melasma is a common, long-term pigmentation disorder in which pigment-producing cells become overactive, leading to symmetrical patches of darker skin. It is influenced by sun and visible light exposure, heat, hormones, including pregnancy and oral contraceptives, and genetics. Pigment can sit in the upper layer of skin, the deeper dermis or both, which affects how it responds to treatment. Because melasma is sensitive to heat and inflammation, aggressive treatment can sometimes make it worse, so a careful, gradual approach is important.

Who it's for

Melasma treatment may be suitable if you notice:

• Symmetrical brown or gray-brown patches on the cheeks or cheekbones
• Darkening on the forehead, upper lip or jawline
• Pigmentation that deepens in summer or after sun exposure
• Patches that appeared during pregnancy or hormonal treatment
• Uneven overall skin tone alongside patchy pigment
• Pigment that has not improved with over-the-counter products

How we treat it at Egg Clinic

A dermatologist first examines your skin to confirm melasma and distinguish it from freckles, sun spots, post-inflammatory marks and ABNOM, as each is treated differently. Treatment is usually a combination:

• RevLite toning laser: a low-fluence Q-switched laser with multiple wavelengths that breaks pigment into fine particles for the body to clear, while limiting damage to surrounding skin
• Targeted pigment laser: for localized spots, a partial pigment approach with RevLite or Excel V may be used where appropriate
• Topical treatment: prescription or medical-grade products to reduce pigment production
• Oral medication: considered for suitable patients after reviewing your health history
• Strict sun protection: essential to maintaining any improvement

What to expect

After your consultation and skin analysis, a toning session takes about 30 minutes. Most people feel mild snapping or warmth. Temporary redness or a warm sensation usually settles within a day, and makeup and face washing are generally possible the same day. Sessions are typically repeated every one to two weeks, and improvement is gradual over a course of treatments. Melasma can recur, especially with sun exposure or hormonal changes, so maintenance is often needed. Results vary.

Aftercare

• Apply sunscreen daily and reapply when outdoors; use a hat or shade
• Avoid alcohol, smoking, saunas, hot baths and strenuous exercise right after treatment
• Moisturize frequently to support the skin barrier
• Avoid scrubs, peeling products and retinol or strong whitening products unless advised
• Do not pick at any small scabs that form

Frequently asked questions

Will melasma stay away after treatment?

Melasma is a chronic condition. Treatment can help lighten it significantly for many people, but it may return, so ongoing sun protection and occasional maintenance are usually recommended.

Why not use a strong laser to clear it faster?

Melasma can darken in response to heat and inflammation. A gentle, repeated approach is generally safer and helps reduce the risk of rebound pigmentation.

Can I have treatment while pregnant?

Many melasma treatments are postponed during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Your dermatologist will recommend safe options, focusing on sun protection.

Visit Egg Clinic in Sinsa

Egg Clinic is at 613 Gangnam-daero, Seocho-gu, Seoul, on the 3rd, 5th, 6th and 7th floors, directly in front of Sinsa Station Exit 5 (Line 3). We are open weekdays 11:00–20:30 and Saturday and Sunday 11:00–17:00, with a lunch break from 14:00 to 15:00. Book a consultation for a skin analysis and a melasma plan suited to you. Call +82-2-542-5540, email eggclinic1@gmail.com, or message us on WhatsApp or KakaoTalk.