What Is Melasma and Why Is It So Difficult to Treat?

Melasma is one of the most common — and often most frustrating — forms of pigmentation seen in skin clinics across Australia. It typically appears as symmetrical brown, grey-brown or patchy pigmentation on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip and jawline.

While melasma is harmless medically, it can significantly affect confidence and is often difficult to manage without the right approach.

At Estetiko Skin & Laser, we regularly help clients understand the causes of melasma and develop treatment plans focused on long-term skin health and pigment management.

What Causes Melasma?

Melasma occurs when pigment-producing cells in the skin (melanocytes) become overactive. Several factors can trigger or worsen this process.

Sun Exposure ☀️

UV exposure is one of the biggest contributors to melasma. Even short periods in the Australian sun can stimulate pigment production and worsen existing pigmentation.

Importantly, visible light and heat can also aggravate melasma — meaning it may continue to flare even when sunscreen is being used inconsistently.

Hormonal Changes

Melasma is commonly associated with:

• pregnancy

• oral contraceptive pills

• hormone replacement therapy

• hormonal fluctuations

This is why melasma is sometimes referred to as the “mask of pregnancy”.

Genetics

Some individuals are simply more genetically predisposed to developing pigmentation disorders.

Heat and Inflammation

Excess heat, aggressive skincare, inflammation and some laser treatments can sometimes worsen melasma if not managed carefully.

Why Is Melasma So Difficult to Treat?

Unlike freckles or sunspots that may sit closer to the skin’s surface, melasma is often more complex and deeper within the skin.

Melasma also has a strong vascular and inflammatory component, meaning treatment is not simply about “removing pigment”.

Even after improvement, melasma can recur if triggers are not controlled.

This is why successful treatment usually requires:

• consistency

• sun protection

• medical-grade skincare

• carefully selected professional treatments

• long-term maintenance

Can Laser Treatments Help?

Some laser and light-based treatments may assist certain types of pigmentation, however melasma must be approached cautiously.

Overly aggressive treatment can sometimes:

• increase inflammation

• stimulate further pigmentation

• worsen the condition

For this reason, professional assessment is important before commencing any laser treatment plan.

At Estetiko Skin & Laser, treatment plans are tailored to the individual skin type, pigment depth and overall skin health.

The Importance of Medical-Grade Skincare

Daily skincare plays a major role in managing melasma.

Ingredients commonly used in pigmentation management may include:

• Vitamin A (retinoids)

• Vitamin C

• Tyrosinase inhibitors

• Pigment suppressors

• Broad-spectrum SPF

Consistent sunscreen use is essential year-round — even on cloudy days.

What Results Can You Expect?

Melasma management is usually a gradual process rather than a quick fix.

Most clients benefit from:

• progressive improvement in pigment appearance

• brighter, more even skin tone

• reduced flare-ups

• improved skin quality overall

The goal is often long-term control and skin stability rather than permanent removal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can melasma be cured?

Melasma can usually be managed effectively, however it may recur over time, particularly with sun exposure or hormonal triggers.

Does melasma get worse in summer?

Yes. UV exposure and heat commonly worsen pigmentation during Australian summers.

Can sunscreen alone treat melasma?

Sunscreen is critical for prevention and maintenance, but most clients require a combination approach for optimal improvement.

Is melasma the same as sun damage?

No. While sun exposure contributes, melasma is typically hormonally and genetically influenced as well.

Seeking Advice for Pigmentation Concerns

If you are concerned about uneven skin tone, stubborn pigmentation or melasma, a professional skin consultation can help determine the most appropriate treatment approach for your skin.

Estetiko Skin & Laser is located in Redhead and provides personalised skin and laser consultations tailored to individual skin concerns.