In short
- Melasma can be controlled well, but it is not cured. It returns if sun and heat protection stop.
- First visible change in 1 to 2 months, a real difference in 3 to 4 months.
- Harsh creams and aggressive lasers often make pigmentation worse.
Which type of pigmentation is it?
- Melasma: patches on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip, driven by sun, heat and hormones.
- Marks after inflammation: dark spots left by acne, eczema, insect bites or injury.
- Sun spots and tanning on the face, hands and arms.
- Dark velvety skin on the neck and underarms, often linked to weight and insulin resistance.
- Darkening from creams: steroid "fairness" creams, fragrances and some medicines.
Dermoscopy at the consultation shows how deep the pigment sits, which decides what will work.
How is melasma treated?
- Sun, light and heat protection every day. Without it, no other treatment lasts.
- Prescription creams that slow pigment production, used in supervised courses.
- Tranexamic acid for melasma, by mouth or on the skin, after checking it is safe for you.
- Chemical peels at strengths that suit Indian skin.
- Q-switched laser toning at gentle settings.
What makes pigmentation worse?
- Steroid or "fairness" creams bought without a prescription.
- Scrubs and home remedies that irritate the skin.
- Strong laser settings used by untrained operators, which can cause rebound darkening.
- Stopping sunscreen once the skin looks clear.
Read why melasma keeps coming back, and what keeps it controlled.
How long does pigmentation take to fade?
- First visible change after 1 to 2 months.
- A real difference in 3 to 4 months.
- Long-term maintenance, mostly sun protection and a mild cream, keeps results.
What does it cost?
Cost depends on how severe the problem is and which treatments suit you. After the consultation you are told the likely number of sessions and the cost before anything is booked.
Further reading
- Why melasma keeps coming back
- Steroid-damaged face: signs, causes and safe recovery
- The four-product routine that beats a twelve-step one
Common questions
Can melasma be cured permanently?
No treatment switches melasma off for good. It can be faded and kept well controlled, but it tends to return with sun, heat or hormonal changes if protection stops.
Can laser remove pigmentation in one session?
No. Gentle laser toning works over several sessions and is combined with creams and sun protection. Strong single sessions risk making pigmentation darker.
Is tranexamic acid safe?
For most people it is, but it is not suitable for everyone. Your medical history, including any clotting problems, is checked before it is prescribed.
Book a consultation
110 Sky City Arcade B-Block, Club O7 Road, Shela, Ahmedabad. Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 7 pm.
Medical disclaimer. This page is general information about treatment at Pigment Skin Clinic. It does not replace a consultation, and the right treatment for you depends on an examination.