all about
melasma
Melasma, also known as the mask of pregnancy, is a stubborn form of hyperpigmentation that appears as uneven brown patches on the face, usually on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip or along the jawline. It often develops during pregnancy due to hormonal changes, but melasma can actually affect anyone, pregnant or not.
Sun damage, genetic predisposition, contraception and certain medications can all make the pigmentation worse. It’s completely harmless, but that doesn’t mean you have to love it. The good news? There are effective treatments that even out your complexion and bring back a fresh, even-toned glow.
Benieuwd wat we kunnen betekenen?
what is melasma?
Melasma develops when melanocytes, your pigment cells, become overactive due to hormonal fluctuations, sunlight or heat. Unlike age spots, the resulting pigment sits deeper in the skin, which makes it more challenging to treat.
causes and triggers
- hormonal changes (pregnancy, contraceptive pill)
- sunlight and heat (sauna, hot yoga)
- genetic predisposition and darker skin types
- medication or perfume in the sun
symptoms
- irregular brown or grey-brown patches on the face
- symmetrical patterns (e.g. both cheeks)
- darker in summer, lighter in winter
- no raised texture or flaking
who is melasma treatment suitable for?
Bothered by brown patches or an uneven complexion? Then this treatment could be for you. At UMA Clinic, we tailor every protocol to your skin type (Fitzpatrick) and the depth of your melasma, helping to prevent rebound pigmentation.
treatment methods at uma clinic
peels
TCA and fruit acid peels can break down pigment. A solution is applied to the skin that speeds up cell division, so the outer layer of your skin renews itself faster and the excess pigment fades away.
ipl
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is, like laser, a form of light therapy. It’s an effective way to treat pigment build-up such as age spots or sun damage. A concentrated beam of light is directed at the skin, where the pigment converts it into heat. This breaks the pigment up, allowing your body to clear it away.
microneedling
During microneedling, tiny vibrating needles glide over the skin, stimulating fibroblasts to produce more collagen. SkinPen microneedling is FDA-approved. The treatment helps restructure your skin, and as the top layer flakes off, the pigment goes with it.
alexandrite laser
The Alexandrite laser is the gold standard for removing pigmentation spots, particularly age spots and sun damage. The pigment absorbs the laser energy and converts it into heat, destroying the pigment cells so the spot fades away.
co2 laser
The fractional CO2 laser can remove the top layer of skin and change its colour. At the same time, it stimulates skin regeneration and encourages fibroblasts to produce more collagen and elastin. The result? Significantly improved skin quality.
results you can expect
After several laser, peel or needling sessions, the patches visibly fade and your skin looks more even. Since melasma can return with UV exposure, sun protection and good skincare are key to keeping your results stable. Because great results deserve great protection.
before and aftercare
- slight redness or flaking after a peel: moisturise and do not scratch.
- no sauna, hot showers or intense exercise for 72 hours.
- SPF every day.
frequently asked questions (faq)
Rarely. Without protection, it can actually become darker.
Yes, especially the Alexandrite laser.
Sometimes, for superficial patches. Deeper pigment, however, often needs a combined approach.
We postpone intensive peels and laser until after your pregnancy. Mild creams and SPF are perfectly fine in the meantime.
book a complimentary consultation at uma clinic
Ready to fade your melasma or mask of pregnancy? Book your complimentary consultation at UMA Clinic and let our specialists create a safe, personalised treatment plan tailored to your skin. Because a clearer, more even complexion starts with understanding yours.
prices
Every skin is different, and so is every treatment. Pricing depends on your skin type, the area being treated and the number of sessions recommended. During your complimentary consultation, we’ll create a personalised treatment plan and provide a clear, upfront quote. No surprises.
what other
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