Melasma is a pigmentation condition that usually causes darker patches on the face. It can improve, but it may also persist or return. The most useful approach combines an accurate diagnosis, suitable sun protection and treatment chosen for your circumstances.
“Best” does not mean the strongest cream or newest procedure. It means a plan that addresses your diagnosis and that you can tolerate and follow consistently.
What does melasma look like?
The American Academy of Dermatology describes melasma as patches commonly affecting the cheeks, forehead, nose, chin and upper-lip area, often on both sides. Colour can range from brown to grey-brown. Melasma itself is generally not painful or itchy.
A photograph or product quiz cannot confirm the diagnosis. If a patch is painful, bleeding, rapidly changing or different from the others, seek medical assessment instead of assuming it is melasma. Our pigmentation types guide explains why dark marks should not all be treated as one condition.
Why does melasma develop?
Its causes are not fully understood. Dermatology guidance on melasma triggers identifies sunlight, pregnancy-related hormonal changes and some medicines among possible contributors. Family history also matters. None of these factors means that you have done something wrong.
Tell your clinician when the patches began and whether this coincided with pregnancy, a medicine change or a new routine. Do not stop contraception or another prescribed medicine on your own; discuss alternatives with the prescriber.
What can you do day to day?
Start with habits that are practical enough to maintain. The AAD’s melasma self-care advice includes broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, shade and protective clothing. It also recommends considering tinted sunscreen containing iron oxide for visible-light protection and choosing gentle skincare.
For your routine, distinguish UV ratings from claims about visible light. A high SPF number alone does not describe every part of the light spectrum. See how sunscreen supports pigmentation care for a closer explanation.
Keep a simple record of products you use and any stinging, redness or dryness. Adding several brightening products together makes it harder to identify what helps or irritates your skin.
How is melasma treated?
A dermatologist may recommend topical medicines, with procedures or oral medication considered in selected cases. The AAD treatment overview emphasises an individual plan rather than one universally best treatment.
Ask what the proposed treatment is expected to change, how progress will be assessed and when to return for review. For a comparison of options and consultation questions, use our melasma treatment guide for Singapore.
Where do skincare products and supplements fit?
A cosmetic cream can be considered as part of a routine, but its claims should be judged on the formula and relevant evidence. You can review the current ingredients and directions for Crystal Tomato® Skin Clarity Cream before discussing it with your clinician.
“Natural” does not establish safety or effectiveness. A supplement study also does not automatically prove the same result as a prescribed treatment. Our guide to supplements and dark spots explains how to separate product evidence from broader ingredient claims.
Track improvement without expecting a permanent cure
Use photographs taken in similar light, from the same distance and without filters. Record the date and any routine changes. This gives you and your clinician a more useful comparison than checking in different mirrors throughout the day.
Agree on a review point and a maintenance plan. Read why pigmentation can return before assuming a recurrence means you need a stronger product.
Frequently asked questions
Does melasma affect only women?
No. It is more common in women, but men can develop it too.
Should I focus on blocking light from my phone?
Do not treat ordinary screen use as equivalent to sunlight. Prioritise established sun-protection measures rather than building your routine around an unsupported comparison of exposures.
Can I use the same treatment during pregnancy?
Pregnancy changes treatment suitability. Have your clinician review medicines, cosmetics and supplements before starting or continuing a brightening regimen.
