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Melasma & dark spots

Care guide by concern

We look at the pattern and distribution of pigmentation, when it became darker and previous treatment responses. We distinguish melasma from other pigment concerns before discussing care.

How do melasma and other dark spots differ?

We look at the pattern and distribution of pigmentation, when it became darker and previous treatment responses. We distinguish melasma from other pigment concerns before discussing care.

If this sounds familiar

  • I'm bothered by uneven, blotchy skin tone that makeup can't cover
  • My melasma got darker after pregnancy and childbirth
  • I feel like my spots and blemishes are increasing year after year
  • I've tried laser toning, but I'm not really sure it made a difference

What causes and skin changes are assessed?

  • 01Melasma and other dark spots need different plans
  • 02Skin response matters more than intensity or session count

Choosing a treatment for your concern

Pigmentation treatments

The approach depends on the type of pigmentation and previous treatment response.

Skin lesions

Moles and raised lesions need assessment separately from pigmentation care.

Melasma & dark spots: common questions

Are melasma and other dark spots treated with the same laser?

Similar-looking pigmentation can have different causes and responses. An examination helps determine the need for sun protection, medication or procedures.

Is combining treatments always better?

Combination studies do not mean the same plan suits every skin type. Previous irritation, pigment changes and recovery time help guide the decision.

Results and recovery vary from person to person.

Before choosing treatment

What to expect and consider

Melasma and other dark spots need different plans

Skin tone, pigment depth and triggers all matter in melasma. Sun protection and topical medication may form the basis of care, with laser or light treatment added according to the skin’s condition. [1]

Skin response matters more than intensity or session count

A study combined IPL and laser for melasma, but followed a small group for a short time. Results from combined treatment cannot be attributed to one procedure alone. Recurrence and pigment changes also need discussion. [2][1]

Studies and sources 2

  1. 1. Patient guidance from a professional or public health organization

    Melasma diagnosis and treatment

    The guidance discusses sun protection, medication and procedures tailored to the skin’s condition.

    Study population
    General health information
    Limitations
    General guidance from an overseas organization. It does not establish a product’s approval in Korea or confirm that this clinic offers a particular treatment.
    Read the source

    Melasma: Diagnosis and treatment American Academy of Dermatology.

  2. 2. Randomized comparative trial · 2014

    Combined laser and light treatment for melasma

    The study compared melasma changes under two treatment approaches.

    Study population
    24 people with melasma; fractional IPL with low-fluence Q-switched Nd:YAG, or IPL alone
    Limitations
    The sample was small and post-treatment follow-up was short. Combined results do not establish laser-only effects or those of other device combinations.
    Read the source · PubMed 25022705

    Combination treatment of low-fluence 1,064-nm Q-switched Nd: YAG laser with novel intense pulse light in Korean melasma patients: a prospective, randomized, controlled trial. Dermatologic surgery : official publication for American Society for Dermatologic Surgery [et al.] (2014).

General information based on external research and guidance. It does not represent an individual diagnosis or this clinic’s results.

When pigmentation, melasma, or blemishes concern you — Leave Any Questions

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