01Foundation
Medical-Grade SkincareThe foundation. Specific products are discussed in consultation, not advertised here.
Hormonal, Recurrent, and Worth Treating Carefully
Melasma
Hormonal pigmentation that returns under hormonal triggers and UV exposure. Aggressive laser is not first-line.
As featured in
Featured In
Your Concerns
What Is It?
Melasma is hormonal pigmentation that affects the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip — most often in women, often appearing or worsening during pregnancy, after starting hormonal contraception, or alongside perimenopausal change. Unlike other pigmentation, melasma is recurrent: it returns under hormonal triggers and UV exposure even after successful treatment. At 23MD, melasma is approached more conservatively than other pigmentation. Daily broad-spectrum SPF is the non-negotiable foundation. In Dubai, Dr Surbhi Virmani's dermatology background leads this work.
Recommended Pathway
Treatments for Melasma
The treatments our doctors most often recommend for this concern. Your consultation confirms the right combination and sequence for you.
02Daily Essential
Broad-Spectrum SPF with Iron OxidesThe single most important intervention. Mineral SPF that blocks visible light, not just UV. Discussed in consultation.
05Energy-Based
Selective DevicesUsed very selectively. Aggressive laser is NOT first-line — the risk of rebound (pigmentation returning worse than before) is real, particularly in skin of colour.
Unsure which pathway suits you?
Book a Consultation
23MD Digital
Not sure how different treatments fit together?
Built on our Treatment Stacking™ method: aesthetic, regenerative and longevity treatments layered and sequenced around your goals and timeline.
Common Causes
What Could Be Causing It
Hormonal
Pregnancy, hormonal contraception, hormone therapy, perimenopausal shifts.
UV Exposure
Even brief sun exposure can trigger or worsen melasma.
Visible Light
Sunlight through windows, screens, indoor lighting can drive melasma in some patients.
Heat
Chronic heat exposure (e.g. cooking, hot climates) may contribute.
Inflammation
Friction, irritation, aggressive treatments can worsen the picture.
FAQs
Your Questions, Answered
Related
Continue Exploring
Medically reviewed by Dr Surbhi Virmani, DHA-licensed Senior Cosmetic & Regenerative Clinician on April 2026.
