Melasma Treatment in Malaysia

Melasma is a common skin condition that causes dark, discoloured patches to appear on the skin, particularly on the face. Often linked to sun exposure, hormonal changes, and genetics, melasma can affect anyone, but is especially prevalent among women. In Malaysia’s tropical climate, where UV exposure is high year-round, melasma is a widespread concern.

This article explores the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and preventive strategies for melasma, helping you understand the best ways to manage this pigmentation condition.

What Is Melasma?

Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that appears as brown or grey-brown patches, commonly found on the cheeks, forehead, nose bridge, upper lip, and chin. It occurs when melanocytes (the pigment-producing cells) become overactive, leading to excess melanin production.

Key features of melasma include:

• Irregularly shaped dark patches
  
• Symmetrical appearance on both sides of the face
  
• Worsening with sun exposure or hormonal changes

Melasma is not harmful or contagious, but it can be distressing for those affected.

Common Causes of Melasma

Several factors contribute to melasma, including:

• Sun exposure: UV radiation stimulates melanin production, exacerbating melasma.
  
• Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormone therapy can trigger melasma (sometimes referred to as the “mask of pregnancy”).
  
• Genetics: A family history of melasma increases the likelihood of developing it.
  
• Skin irritation: Certain cosmetic products or treatments may irritate the skin and trigger pigmentation.
  
• Medications: Some medications increase sensitivity to sunlight, contributing to melasma formation.

Understanding these triggers is crucial for both treatment and prevention.

Signs and Symptoms of Melasma

Melasma typically presents as:

• Flat patches of darker skin
  
• Brown, grey-brown, or bluish-grey discolouration
  
• Symmetrical pattern on the face
  
• Occasionally, appearance on the neck, forearms, or other sun-exposed areas

It is important to differentiate melasma from other pigmentation disorders like sunspots or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, as the treatment approaches may differ.

How Is Melasma Diagnosed?

Melasma is usually diagnosed visually by an experienced dermatologist or aesthetic doctor. In some cases, a Woods Lamp examination (special light examination) may be used to determine the depth of the pigmentation — whether it’s epidermal (surface level), dermal (deeper layers), or mixed.

Proper diagnosis ensures that the correct treatment strategy is chosen.

Best Melasma Treatments in Malaysia

Several treatment options are available for melasma. The choice depends on the severity, pigmentation depth, skin type, and patient preferences.

1. Topical Treatments

• Hydroquinone: A skin-lightening agent that reduces pigmentation.
  
• Retinoids: Promote cell turnover and pigment removal.
  
• Azelaic acid: Helps lighten dark spots safely.
  
• Tranexamic acid: Reduces melanin production and inflammation.

Topical treatments are often the first line of defence but may require months of consistent use.

2. Chemical Peels

Kulit kimia using glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or trichloroacetic acid can exfoliate the skin and reduce surface-level melasma. However, deep melasma may be resistant to peels alone.

3. Laser Treatments

• Pico Laser: Delivers ultra-short pulses that shatter melanin without damaging surrounding tissue. Safe for darker skin tones with minimal downtime.
  
• Fractional Laser: Improves skin texture and pigmentation by stimulating collagen production.

Laser treatments must be carefully selected, as aggressive lasers can worsen melasma if not performed correctly.

4. Oral Medications

Oral tranexamic acid has shown promising results in reducing melasma in some patients. It works by inhibiting melanin production and controlling vascular factors.

5. Combination Therapy

For optimal results, many doctors recommend combining different treatments — for example, using topical creams alongside laser therapy — to address melasma at multiple levels.

6. Golden Wave (Microneedle Radiofrequency)

Microneedle radiofrequency (RF), known as Golden Wave at Dr Chong Clinic, combines micro-needling with RF energy to target pigmentation at deeper layers while stimulating collagen. This dual action not only helps lighten melasma but also strengthens the skin barrier to prevent recurrence.

Some of the benefits include:

• Reduces stubborn dermal melasma
  
• Improves skin texture and firmness
  
• Minimal downtime compared to aggressive lasers
  
• Safe for various skin tones, including darker skin

Home Remedies vs Professional Treatment

Some individuals try home remedies such as aloe vera, turmeric, or apple cider vinegar. While these ingredients may offer mild brightening effects, they are unlikely to significantly improve moderate to severe melasma.

Professional treatments provide targeted, medically proven methods to safely reduce melasma without causing further skin irritation or pigmentation rebound.

Preventing Melasma Recurrence

Melasma can be persistent, and even after successful treatment, recurrence is common. Prevention strategies include:

• Daily Sunscreen: Use a broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen even indoors.
  
• Sun Protection: Wear hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing when outside.
  
• Avoid Irritation: Choose gentle skincare products free from harsh chemicals or fragrances.
  
• Manage Hormonal Triggers: Consult a healthcare provider about alternatives to hormone-based medications if they worsen melasma.

Consistency is key to maintaining clear, even-toned skin.

Conclusion: Managing Melasma Effectively

Melasma can be challenging to treat, but with the right combination of professional treatments, skincare, and preventive measures, significant improvements are possible. Early intervention and expert guidance are crucial to achieving lasting results without damaging the skin.

Pada Klinik Dr Chong, we specialise in customised melasma treatments tailored to each patient’s skin type and pigmentation depth. Our aesthetic doctors use a combination of advanced lasers, chemical peels, and medical-grade skincare to deliver safe, effective solutions for melasma. With over 20 clinics across Malaysia, we are committed to helping you regain a clearer, brighter complexion with professional care.

Book a consultation today and take the first step towards healthier, more radiant skin.

Soalan Lazim 

1. Can melasma go away on its own?

Melasma may fade slightly over time, especially if triggered by pregnancy. However, it often persists without professional treatment.

2. Is laser treatment safe for melasma?

Yes, when performed by trained doctors using appropriate lasers like Pico Laser. Aggressive lasers can worsen pigmentation if not used carefully.

3. How many sessions are needed to treat melasma?

Most patients require between 3 to 6 sessions, depending on severity and treatment type.

4. Can melasma return after treatment?

Yes, melasma can recur, especially with sun exposure. Consistent sun protection and maintenance treatments help prevent relapse.

5. Is melasma only caused by the sun?

No, melasma can also be triggered by hormonal changes, medications, genetics, and skin irritation, in addition to sun exposure.