Melasma Treatment in Singapore: Doctor-Guided Laser & Pigmentation Care

Melasma is one of the most challenging pigmentary concerns seen in Singapore. It appears as brown or greyish patches on the face and is influenced by sun exposure, heat, hormones and genetics.

Unlike simple dark spots or freckles, melasma tends to fade, recur and fluctuate over time, which is why it requires careful, long-term management rather than a quick fix.

This page explains what melasma is, the different types of melasma, why it is difficult to manage, how Q-switched and Pico laser categories fit into melasma care, and what a doctor-guided treatment and maintenance plan in Singapore may look like.

What Is Melasma?

Melasma is a chronic pigmentary condition where melanocytes (pigment-producing cells) become more active and sensitive.

Instead of forming isolated spots, melasma shows up as diffuse patches, often on both sides of the face in a roughly symmetrical pattern.

It is more common in individuals with medium to darker skin tones and in climates with strong sunlight and high heat, such as Singapore.

Melasma is most commonly seen in these areas:

• Cheeks
• Forehead
• Upper lip (“moustache” melasma)
• Nose bridge
• Jawline

Because melasma is influenced by internal factors such as hormones and heat, as well as external factors like UV exposure and irritation, it often behaves in a “two steps forward, one step back” pattern.

This is why doctors emphasise long-term care over one-off aggressive treatments.

Types of Melasma (Why It Matters for Treatment)

Understanding the type of melasma helps doctors decide how cautious they need to be and which treatment categories may be appropriate.

Epidermal Melasma

This refers to melasma where more pigment is located in the epidermis (the top layer of the skin). It usually looks light to dark brown.

Epidermal melasma may respond relatively better to topical brightening agents and gentle procedures, provided the skin barrier remains calm.

Dermal Melasma

In dermal melasma, more pigment sits deeper in the dermis. It can have a grey or bluish tinge and tends to be more persistent.

Dermal melasma typically requires longer-term maintenance, and doctors may be more cautious with heat or irritation.

Mixed Melasma

Mixed melasma is the most common pattern in practice. It contains both epidermal and dermal components.

This means a combination approach is usually considered, with careful layering of skincare, sun protection and, where suitable, laser categories such as Q-switched lasers.

Is Melasma the Same as Freckles, Sunspots or PIH?

Many people in Singapore call any dark mark “pigmentation”, but different pigmentary concerns behave differently and respond differently to treatment.

Melasma is not the same as freckles, sunspots or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).

These differences matter because melasma is both hormone- and heat-sensitive. Approaches that work well for sunspots or freckles may not be appropriate for melasma, especially if they are too strong or cause inflammation.

Why Is Melasma So Hard to Treat?

Melasma is often described as “stubborn” for a few reasons:

• Overactive melanocytes: The pigment cells are easily triggered and can produce more pigment from relatively small amounts of sun, heat or irritation.
• Multiple triggers: UV light, heat, hormones, certain skincare ingredients and even friction can all play a role.
• Chronic and recurrent: Even when melasma improves, the tendency is still there. It can come back with lifestyle changes, travel, pregnancy or simply more outdoor exposure.
• Heat sensitivity: Melasma is very sensitive to heat. Overly aggressive peels or high-energy devices can sometimes make it worse instead of better.
• Underlying predisposition: Genetic factors and skin type influence how much pigment is produced and how the skin reacts.

Because of these factors, melasma is usually managed rather than “cured”. The focus is on gradually improving the appearance and keeping it as stable as possible with long-term habits.

How Melasma Is Typically Managed in Clinics

Most doctors take a layered and cautious approach to melasma. The goal is to calm the skin, regulate pigment activity and reduce triggers, rather than relying on a single strong procedure.

A typical doctor-guided melasma plan may include:

• Assessment and diagnosis: Confirming that it is melasma, identifying the type (epidermal, dermal, mixed) and looking for triggers such as hormones, UV exposure, heat and skincare habits.
• Skin barrier and topical preparation: Introducing gentle brightening or pigment-regulating topicals if suitable, and avoiding harsh, fragranced or stripping products.
• Sun protection and lifestyle guidance: Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, hat use, shade, and taking note of heat exposure (for example, mid-day sun, hot yoga, steam rooms).
• Energy-based treatments where appropriate: Gentle laser categories such as Q-switched lasers, and in some cases Pico lasers, may be recommended depending on skin type, melasma depth and history.
• Maintenance and review: Regular follow-ups, adjusting the plan and fine-tuning daily routines to reduce flare-ups.

Melasma Treatment Options in Singapore

There is no single “best” treatment for melasma. Instead, doctors usually combine several approaches and adjust them over time.

The mix depends on the type of melasma, skin sensitivity, existing skincare routine and individual goals.

Common treatment categories that may be considered as part of a melasma care plan include:

For many patients, a combination of gentle topical care, strict sun protection and carefully selected laser categories will be used at different phases of their melasma journey.

Q-Switched Laser vs Pico Laser for Melasma

Both Q-switched and Pico lasers are categories of lasers used in pigmentation care, but they are not interchangeable, and one is not automatically “better” than the other for melasma.

In practice, doctors may choose Q-switched lasers in gentle, low settings for melasma because of its heat sensitivity.

Pico technology has its place for certain types of pigment, but the choice depends on the individual’s diagnosis, skin type and previous response to treatments.

Learn more about our Q-switched laser category here: Q-switched Laser.

How to Get Rid of Melasma Safely

Because melasma is chronic and easily triggered, “getting rid of it” safely usually means gradually improving and then maintaining the best possible baseline, rather than expecting it to vanish permanently.

General principles of safe melasma care include:

• Focusing on gentle, steady improvements rather than quick, aggressive procedures.
• Protecting the skin from UV and heat exposure every day.
• Using doctor-guided pigment-regulating topicals if suitable.
• Choosing laser settings and treatment intervals cautiously, especially in sensitive or darker skin types.
• Building a long-term routine that the patient can realistically maintain.

When Should You See a Doctor for Melasma?

It may be helpful to see a doctor when:

• You are not sure whether your pigmentation is melasma, freckles, sunspots or PIH.
• Your pigmentation has spread, deepened or changed recently.
• Over-the-counter brightening products have caused irritation or made things worse.
• You are pregnant, planning pregnancy or have noticed changes related to hormones.
• You are considering laser or chemical peels and want to understand the risks and options.

Melasma Treatment Cost & Pricing Structure in Singapore

Melasma treatment costs in Singapore vary depending on the type of treatment recommended, the number of sessions and the individual’s skin condition and goals.

A proper consultation is required before fees can be confirmed. The table below summarises typical pricing structures without listing specific figures.

Exact costs can only be provided after a doctor has examined your skin in person and discussed suitable options for you.

Possible Considerations & Side Effects

As with any medical procedure or topical regimen, there may be side effects and considerations.

These can vary based on the treatment chosen and individual skin sensitivity.

• Temporary redness or mild warmth after procedures.
• Dryness, flaking or sensitivity when starting certain topicals or peels.
• Risk of temporary darkening or PIH, especially in inflamed or over-treated skin.
• Need to avoid sun and heat exposure after certain procedures.

A doctor will discuss the potential risks and precautions with you before starting any treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions About Melasma

1. Can melasma disappear completely?

Melasma can lighten significantly and become much less noticeable, but because the underlying tendency remains, it can return with triggers such as UV exposure, heat or hormonal changes. The focus is usually on control and maintenance rather than expecting it to never recur.

2. Is Pico laser always better than Q-switched laser for melasma?

No. Pico lasers are well-known for their role in tattoo pigment fragmentation, but that does not automatically make them better for melasma. Melasma is highly heat- and energy-sensitive, so gentler Q-switched settings are often preferred. The choice depends on your diagnosis and skin type.

3. How many sessions of laser will I need for melasma?

The number of sessions varies widely. It depends on the depth and type of melasma, the laser settings used, your skin’s response and how well triggers are controlled between sessions. Your doctor will discuss an approximate plan after assessing your skin.

4. Will my melasma come back after it improves?

It can. Melasma tends to fluctuate. Even when it improves, it may return if there is more sun, heat or hormonal change. This is why maintenance skincare and ongoing sun protection are important parts of any plan.

5. Is melasma caused only by the sun?

Sunlight is a major trigger, but melasma is usually not caused by UV alone. Hormones, heat, genetics, inflammation, and certain skincare habits can all contribute.

6. Can I treat melasma with home remedies or over-the-counter products?

Some gentle over-the-counter products may support brightening, but using the wrong acids, scrubs or “whitening” products can irritate the skin and worsen melasma. If your pigmentation is persistent or spreading, it is safer to seek medical advice.

7. Is melasma the same as post-acne marks?

No. Post-acne marks (PIH) are linked to inflammation after acne or injuries. Melasma is hormonally and environmentally influenced and behaves differently. It often needs a longer-term, more cautious approach.

8. Can pregnancy cause melasma?

Yes. Melasma that develops during pregnancy is often called “chloasma” or the “mask of pregnancy”. It may improve after delivery but can also linger, especially if there is ongoing sun exposure.

9. Should I avoid all lasers if I have melasma?

Not necessarily. Gentle settings and appropriate laser categories can be part of melasma care, but they must be chosen and calibrated carefully. Aggressive or inappropriate laser use can worsen melasma, so medical assessment is essential.

10. What daily habits help keep melasma under control?

Consistent broad-spectrum sunscreen, avoiding peak sun and heat exposure, using non-irritating skincare, and following a doctor-guided regimen are key everyday steps to keep melasma as stable as possible.

Meet Your Doctor

Last reviewed by Dr. Vijay Sampath
M.B.B.S, M.S (Gen Surg), DNB (Gen Surg), MRCS (Edinburgh)

Learn more about your doctor here: View Doctor Profile

Not Sure Which Approach Is Right for Your Melasma?

If you are unsure whether your pigmentation is melasma, what has triggered it, or which treatment categories are suitable for your skin type, a consultation can help.

A doctor will assess your skin in person, discuss your concerns and design a melasma care plan tailored to your needs and lifestyle.

To explore doctor-guided melasma treatment options in Singapore, you may book a consultation with our clinic team.