Written By: Dr Robert Ong (MBBS, GDFP (Dermatology),
Member - American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine)
Last updated: Oct 08, 2025
What Is Melasma?
Melasma is a common skin condition characterised by brown or greyish patches that typically
appear on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip. The patches often have an
irregular shape and symmetrical distribution, giving the skin an uneven appearance.
It is caused by an overproduction of melanin, often triggered by sun exposure, hormonal changes, and
genetic predisposition. The condition is more prevalent in women, particularly those with darker
skin tones. While melasma is harmless, its persistent and noticeable pigmentation can affect your
skin appearance and self-confidence.
At Medical Aesthetics, we offer a range of melasma treatments tailored to different skin types and
severity levels. Contact us to learn more or schedule a consultation.
Melasma Causes
Melasma develops due to increased melanin production, influenced by several common factors:
Sun Exposure – Ultraviolet (UV) radiation stimulates melanocytes, the skin cells responsible for producing
melanin, leading to darker and more persistent pigmentation.
Hormonal Changes – Pregnancy, oral contraceptives, menopause and
hormone replacement therapy frequently contribute to melasma, especially in women, by
affecting melanin regulation.
Genetics – A family history of melasma increases the likelihood of
developing the condition, as melanocyte activity can be genetically predisposed.
Skin Irritation – Although less common, harsh skincare products,
frequent exfoliation, or certain cosmetic procedures can overstimulate melanocytes,
worsening pigmentation.
Melasma Treatments
Treatment for melasma ranges from topical and oral therapies to chemical peels and laser treatments,
depending on the severity of the condition and individual response to treatment.
Treatment Type
Description & Purpose
Common Use Cases
Topical Treatments
Include creams and serums applied directly to the skin to inhibit melanin production,
reduce pigment transfer, and promote skin renewal, gradually lightening hyperpigmentation.
Common ingredients include hydroquinone, retinoids (tretinoin),
tranexamic acid, vitamin C, arbutin, and kojic acid.
Suitable for mild to moderate melasma cases, or as a first-line treatment before more
intensive procedures.
Oral Medications
Include oral treatments such as tranexamic acid and antioxidants which help
reduce pigmentation by modulating melanin production, inhibiting inflammatory pathways,
and counteracting oxidative stress.
May be recommended for widespread or persistent melasma that does not respond to topical
treatments.
Chemical Peels
Involve applying a chemical solution containing glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and
trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels to exfoliate the superficial skin layers,
stimulating new cell turnover and gradually fading hyperpigmentation.
Typically effective for mild to moderate melasma cases, particularly those with
surface-level pigmentation.
May be recommended for stubborn or deep-seated melasma cases that do not respond to
other treatments.
Melasma Treatment: Before and After Photos
Owing to the regulations of The Ministry of Health (MOH), we are unable to publish before and after photos on our
website. However, you may view these photos during your consultation with our doctor to understand more about the
treatment you seek.
Why Choose Dr Robert Ong's Melasma Treatment in Singapore?
The Medical Aesthetics Track Record
+
Patients Consulted Since 2002
+
Years of Experience
+
Google Reviews
Experienced & Friendly Doctor
Dr Robert Ong listens attentively to your concerns and patiently discusses with you the appropriate
treatment options, based on over 20 years of medical and aesthetics experience.
Affordable Treatments
We are priced competitively and affordably. We also have a variety of treatment options
depending on your budget and requirements.
Safe & Effective Results
Our treatment options are safe, effective and promotes natural healing for your
skin. We strive to keep your experience a comfortable one and will
minimize any pain or discomfort, if any.
Melasma Treatment Cost
At Medical Aesthetic, we provide a range of treatment for melasma and skin whitening, with the prices as
follows:
*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST. All patients are required to undergo a consultation with our doctor to assess his or her
suitability for the relevant treatment(s).
How to Prevent Melasma Recurrence?
Melasma is a chronic skin condition that can reappear or worsen even after successful treatment if
not properly managed. Preventive measures help maintain an even skin tone and minimise the risk of
recurrence.
Daily Sunscreen Use – Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50+
shields the skin from UV radiation, which can trigger pigmentation. Regular
reapplication throughout the day enhances protection.
Consistent Skincare Routine – Using gentle, non-irritating products
with brightening ingredients like vitamin C and niacinamide helps regulate melanin
production and prevents flare-ups. Avoiding harsh exfoliation reduces skin irritation.
Avoiding Hormonal Triggers – Adjusting birth control methods or hormone
therapy, under medical guidance, may help stabilise melanin production and prevent
hormone-induced pigmentation.
Regular Follow-Ups – Periodic consultations allow for early
intervention, enabling doctors to adjust treatments and recommend additional therapies
if pigmentation begins to resurface.
There is no single most effective treatment for melasma, as results depend on the
severity of pigmentation, skin type, and individual response to treatment. First-line
treatments include topical agents like hydroquinone, retinoids, and tranexamic acid.
Chemical peels and oral medications may help persistent cases, while laser treatments
such as Pico Laser and Q-Switched Laser are considered for deeper or stubborn
pigmentation. Consulting a doctor can help determine the most suitable treatment for
your condition.
Melasma treatments include topical creams (hydroquinone, retinoids, vitamin C, and kojic
acid) to regulate melanin production, oral medications like tranexamic acid and
antioxidants, chemical peels to exfoliate pigmented skin, and laser treatments such as
Pico Laser and Q-Switched Laser for deeper pigmentation. Preventive measures like sun
protection and avoiding hormonal triggers are also essential to managing melasma.
Consulting a doctor can help determine the most effective approach based on your skin
type and condition.
The cost of laser melasma treatment at Medical Aesthetics starts from $300 per session,
depending on the type of laser used and the number of sessions required. A consultation
is required to assess your skin condition and determine whether laser treatment is
appropriate. Contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Some melasma treatments that work include topical creams, oral medications, chemical
peels, and laser therapy. Topical treatments like hydroquinone and retinoids reduce
melanin production, while oral tranexamic acid helps regulate pigmentation pathways.
Chemical peels and laser treatments target deeper pigmentation, promoting faster
clearance. Consulting a doctor can help determine the most suitable treatment based on
your skin type and the severity of melasma.
Melasma and hyperpigmentation are treated using similar methods, including topical
creams (hydroquinone, retinoids, vitamin C), oral medications (tranexamic acid,
antioxidants), chemical peels, and laser treatments. However, melasma is more chronic
and hormonally driven, often requiring ongoing management. A doctor can recommend a
personalised treatment plan based on the type and depth of pigmentation.
Melasma is known as 黄褐斑 (Huáng hè bān) in Mandarin. It refers to the characteristic
brown or greyish patches of hyperpigmentation that appear on sun-exposed areas of the
skin, particularly the face.
Yes, certain medications can trigger or worsen melasma by influencing melanin
production. These include oral contraceptives, hormone replacement therapy, anti-seizure
medications, and some photosensitising drugs like tetracyclines and NSAIDs. If you
suspect medication-induced melasma, consult a doctor for alternative options or
additional treatment strategies to manage pigmentation.
Melasma most commonly affects the face, but it can also appear on the neck, shoulders,
and back, particularly after prolonged sun exposure. While not medically harmful,
pigmentation on the back could indicate sun-induced hyperpigmentation or another
underlying condition. A consultation with a doctor can help determine the cause and
appropriate treatment.
Melasma can be managed with topical treatments, oral medications, chemical peels, and
laser therapy, depending on severity and response to treatment. Topical creams like
hydroquinone and retinoids reduce melanin production, while oral options such as
tranexamic acid help regulate pigmentation. Chemical peels and lasers accelerate pigment
breakdown. Sun protection and a consistent skincare routine are essential to prevent
recurrence. It is best to consult a doctor to determine the most suitable treatment for
your skin condition.
Freckles are small, light to dark brown spots that appear due to sun exposure and are
more common in fair-skinned individuals. Melasma presents as larger, patchy brown or
greyish pigmentation, typically on the face, and is triggered by hormonal changes,
genetics, and UV exposure. Unlike freckles, melasma tends to persist without treatment.
Sun protection helps prevent both conditions, but melasma often requires targeted
medical treatments for management.
Melasma treatment in Singapore includes topical creams, oral medications, chemical
peels, and laser treatments, with options tailored to different skin types and
severities. Common treatments include hydroquinone, retinoids, and tranexamic acid for
pigment reduction. Chemical peels and laser therapies like Pico Laser or Q-Switched
Laser are available for deeper pigmentation. It is advisable to consult a doctor to
determine the most suitable approach for your skin.
Melasma is a chronic condition with no guaranteed permanent cure, but it can be
effectively managed with consistent treatment and preventive measures. Topical and oral
therapies, chemical peels, and lasers help lighten pigmentation, but sun exposure,
hormonal changes, and genetics can trigger recurrence. Long-term maintenance, including
sunscreen and skincare tailored to your skin type, is essential to keep pigmentation
under control. It is best to consult with a doctor who can recommend a treatment
strategy for optimal, lasting results.
There is no single best remover for melasma, as treatment depends on skin type,
severity, and response to therapy. Common options include topical creams like
hydroquinone, tretinoin, and tranexamic acid, oral antioxidants, chemical peels, and
laser treatments. A combination approach is often recommended for better results. Sun
protection is essential to prevent worsening pigmentation. Consult a doctor for a
personalised treatment plan based on your skin condition.
Melasma can worsen due to sun exposure, hormonal changes, heat, and skin irritation. UV
radiation stimulates melanin production, making daily sunscreen use essential. Hormonal
fluctuations from pregnancy, birth control pills, or hormone therapy can trigger
pigmentation. Excessive heat and harsh skincare products may inflame the skin, leading
to darker patches. To minimise flare-ups, use gentle skincare, avoid excessive
exfoliation, and practice strict sun protection.
The triple combination (TC) cream for melasma contains hydroquinone, tretinoin, and a
corticosteroid. Hydroquinone reduces melanin production, tretinoin promotes skin
renewal, and the corticosteroid helps control inflammation. This formulation is commonly
prescribed for moderate to severe melasma, but long-term use requires medical
supervision to prevent side effects like skin irritation and rebound pigmentation.
Consulting a doctor can help determine if this treatment is suitable for your skin
condition.
Melasma can sometimes improve naturally with strict sun protection, a gentle skincare
routine, and antioxidant-rich products. Using broad-spectrum sunscreen, vitamin C
serums, niacinamide, and azelaic acid may help reduce pigmentation over time. However,
melasma is often persistent, and natural remedies alone may not be sufficient for all
cases. If pigmentation remains or worsens, consulting a doctor for personalised
treatment options such as topical creams, chemical peels, or laser therapy is advisable.
The first-line treatment for melasma typically includes topical creams containing
hydroquinone, retinoids, and antioxidants. These work by reducing melanin production and
promoting skin renewal. Sunscreen is essential to prevent further pigmentation. For mild
cases, over-the-counter brightening agents like vitamin C and niacinamide may help. If
topical treatments do not show improvement, oral medications, chemical peels, or laser
treatments may be considered under medical supervision.
Melasma treatment costs vary depending on the method used. At Medical Aesthetics,
topical treatments start from $65, oral medication from $78, chemical peels from
$114.45, and laser treatments from $300 per session. While lasers and peels are
generally more costly, they may offer faster visible results. A consultation with our
doctor can help recommend the most suitable and cost-effective option for your skin.
Melasma is caused by excess melanin production, often triggered by sun exposure,
hormonal changes, genetics, and skin irritation. UV radiation stimulates melanocytes,
making pigmentation more pronounced. Hormonal fluctuations from pregnancy, oral
contraceptives, and hormone therapy can also contribute. Genetic predisposition plays a
role, and skin inflammation from harsh skincare or treatments may worsen melasma.
Managing these triggers with proper sun protection and targeted treatments can help
control the condition.
Vitamin C, vitamin E, and niacinamide (vitamin B3) are commonly used to help manage
melasma. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that reduces oxidative stress and inhibits melanin
production, while niacinamide helps prevent melanin transfer to skin cells. Vitamin E
supports skin repair and hydration. These vitamins are often found in topical serums or
oral supplements and work best when combined with sunscreen and other melasma
treatments.
No specific food cures melasma, but a diet rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory
foods may help support skin health. Foods high in vitamin C (citrus fruits, berries),
vitamin E (nuts, seeds), and glutathione (avocados, spinach) may aid in skin
brightening. Green tea and polyphenol-rich foods can help protect against oxidative
stress. While diet can complement treatment, professional skincare and sun protection
remain essential for managing melasma effectively.
There is no instant cure for melasma, but the fastest approach typically combines laser
treatments, prescription creams, and strict sun protection. Q-Switched and Pico Laser
help break down pigmentation, while triple combination (TC) creams (hydroquinone,
tretinoin, and corticosteroids) accelerate skin lightening. Oral tranexamic acid may be
prescribed for stubborn cases. However, results take time, and long-term maintenance
with sunscreen and skincare is essential to prevent recurrence. It is best to consult a
doctor for a personalised treatment plan.
Yes, vitamin C is beneficial for melasma as it acts as an antioxidant, inhibits melanin
production, and brightens skin tone. It helps neutralise free radicals that contribute
to pigmentation and works well when combined with sunscreen and other treatments like
niacinamide and retinoids. While topical vitamin C can help fade pigmentation, it is not
a standalone cure and is most effective as part of a broader melasma management plan.
