Melasma is a common pigmentation concern in Singapore, often presenting as brown or greyish patches on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, or jawline. While not harmful, it can be persistent and challenging to treat. As aesthetic doctors, we frequently see patients frustrated by stubborn melasma that does not improve with over-the-counter products.
This guide explores the medically proven melasma treatment options available in Singapore — from topical therapies and oral supplements to advanced lasers and procedural treatments — and explains how we approach each case with a personalised, doctor-led plan.
Melasma is a complex pigmentation disorder commonly seen in women, particularly in sun-rich environments like Singapore. It appears as symmetrical patches of brown, grey, or tan pigmentation, typically on the cheeks, forehead, nose bridge, upper lip, and jawline. While melasma is not medically harmful, its visible nature can cause significant emotional distress and self-consciousness.
The exact cause of melasma is multifactorial, but it is strongly influenced by the following triggers:
Melasma is categorised based on the depth of pigment deposition in the skin:
Not all pigmentation is the same, and correctly identifying melasma is essential to selecting the right treatment. While melasma is one of the most common pigmentation disorders seen in Singapore, it is often mistaken for other conditions such as sunspots, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), or freckles. Differentiating between them helps avoid unnecessary or ineffective treatments.
Melasma often presents with the following features:
Because different types of pigmentation respond to different treatment modalities — and melasma requires careful, long-term management — it is important to have a medical assessment by an experienced aesthetic doctor.
Melasma is widely regarded as one of the most complex and stubborn forms of facial pigmentation to manage. Unlike other pigmentation conditions that may respond well to topical creams or laser treatments, melasma is driven by deeper, more persistent biological factors — making it prone to recurrence and treatment resistance.
A key reason melasma is so difficult to treat lies in its hormonal component. Fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone levels — whether due to pregnancy, oral contraceptives, or hormone therapy — play a central role in melasma development. These internal influences are not easily removed or controlled, which is why melasma often persists despite treatment.
Even after visible improvement, melasma is notorious for relapsing. A single beach holiday with excessive sun exposure, or skipping daily sun protection, can cause pigmentation to return — sometimes more intensely than before. Because melasma-affected skin remains hypersensitive to UV and heat triggers, long-term maintenance is essential.
While lasers can be helpful in treating certain types of pigmentation, melasma requires cautious use of laser technologies. Aggressive or inappropriate laser settings may worsen the condition or cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) — especially in individuals with darker skin tones. This is why a personalised, low-energy approach is often preferred, and treatments must be adjusted based on skin response.
Unlike other pigment conditions where treatment may be curative, melasma requires ongoing care. Studies have shown that stopping treatment too early can lead to relapse. A comprehensive treatment plan — often combining topical agents, sun protection, oral supplements, and periodic in-clinic procedures — is necessary for long-term control.
Topical creams are a foundational part of melasma management and are often used as first-line therapy. These formulations work by targeting different points in the melanin production pathway and by accelerating skin cell turnover to lighten dark pigmented patches more effectively. Prescription-only combinations are typically more potent than over-the-counter creams, and should be tailored to the individual’s skin condition.
Some of the most effective medical-grade ingredients include:
At our clinic, Dr Edwin has developed two targeted prescription formulations for melasma:
These creams incorporate a synergistic blend of hydroquinone, tretinoin, arbutin, tranexamic acid, and butylresorcinol. They work by blocking excess melanin production and promoting skin renewal, thereby helping to clear existing pigmentation and prevent further melanin buildup. As prescription formulations, they are dispensed after a consultation to ensure suitability for each skin type.
Learn more about pigmentation creams here
Melasma is a complex condition that requires more than a one-size-fits-all laser treatment. At our clinic, we use a dual-laser protocol — combining the Spectra Pigment Laser and the Quadrostar Pro Yellow Laser — to achieve safe, gradual, and sustained improvements in melasma.
This low-fluence laser targets deeper pigmentation using gentle pulses of laser energy to break down melanin particles. It is effective for epidermal and mixed-type melasma, and its non-ablative nature means minimal risk of skin irritation or post-treatment downtime.
Learn more about the Spectra Laser here
This vascular laser targets the microvascular inflammation and redness often associated with melasma. By reducing superficial blood vessels and inflammation, it helps stabilise pigment activity and prevent rebound pigmentation — a key concern with melasma.
By combining both pigment and vascular lasers, we address melasma holistically: removing excess melanin while calming the underlying triggers.
Learn more about the Pro Yellow Laser here
In addition to our core dual-laser method, we also offer Pico Laser for suitable cases — particularly those with superficial or epidermal melasma, or when a low-heat approach is preferred.
Pico Laser delivers ultra-short bursts of laser energy in picoseconds, creating a photoacoustic effect rather than a photothermal one. This means melanin is shattered with minimal heat, reducing the risk of inflammation or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
Pico Laser is typically incorporated as part of a multimodal protocol, not used in isolation. It is especially useful for:
Learn more about the Pico Laser here
Dr Edwin carefully selects the appropriate laser or combination based on skin type, pigmentation depth, and treatment response — ensuring each patient receives a tailored and safe solution.
In recent years, oral tranexamic acid has emerged as a promising adjunct treatment for moderate to severe melasma. Originally used to reduce bleeding, tranexamic acid has been found to inhibit the plasminogen pathway, which indirectly affects melanin production triggered by UV exposure and hormonal activity.
Melasma is not just a surface-level skin issue — it is deeply influenced by vascular and hormonal pathways. Tranexamic acid works by:
At our clinic, oral tranexamic acid may be recommended as part of a combination treatment plan for suitable patients. It is typically prescribed at a low dose and taken over a 3- to 6-month period, depending on the severity of pigmentation and patient response.
It is important to note that oral tranexamic acid is not suitable for everyone. It is contraindicated in individuals with a history of blood clots or cardiovascular conditions, which is why a full medical assessment is essential before starting treatment.
Effective sun protection is paramount in managing melasma. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation, visible light, and environmental pollutants are significant triggers that can exacerbate pigmentation. Therefore, comprehensive protection against these factors is essential to prevent melasma flare-ups and recurrence.
At our clinic, we recommend Crystal Tomato® Beyond Sun Protection, a premium sunscreen that offers extensive defense against various environmental aggressors. Its key features include:
For optimal protection:
Incorporating a high-quality sunscreen like Crystal Tomato® Beyond Sun Protection into your daily regimen is a proactive step towards managing melasma effectively and maintaining overall skin health.
Learn more here
Incorporating oral sun protection supplements can be a valuable adjunct in the comprehensive management of melasma. These supplements work systemically to bolster the skin's defense against ultraviolet (UV) radiation and oxidative stress, both of which are significant contributors to melasma development and exacerbation.
At our clinic, we recommend the Maxi-White Oral Skincare Supplement, a scientifically formulated blend of potent antioxidants designed to provide internal photoprotection and support skin health. The key active ingredients include:
The synergistic action of these ingredients offers multiple benefits:
For optimal results, it is advised to take the Maxi-White supplement daily, as directed. Consistency is key, and benefits are typically observed over a period of several weeks. It is important to note that while these supplements provide internal support, they should be used in conjunction with topical sun protection measures and other melasma treatments for comprehensive management.
Learn more here
Melasma is not a condition that can be effectively managed with a single treatment method. Because it is influenced by multiple triggers — including hormones, sun exposure, vascular changes, and skin sensitivity — a multi-modal approach is often required to achieve optimal, long-term results.
At our clinic, Dr Edwin designs customised treatment plans that combine several clinically proven therapies, targeting both the root causes and visible signs of melasma.
Combining prescription creams containing hydroquinone, tretinoin, arbutin, or tranexamic acid with oral tranexamic acid helps tackle pigmentation at both the surface and systemic levels. While topical agents promote pigment fading and skin renewal, oral medication works internally to suppress hormonal and UV-triggered melanin production.
Incorporating laser treatments — such as Spectra Q-Switched, Pro Yellow, and Pico Laser — alongside oral sun protection supplements like Maxi-White enhances outcomes. Lasers break down existing pigment and reduce vascular triggers, while supplements strengthen the skin’s internal defences against UV and oxidative stress, helping to prevent new pigmentation from forming.
A combination approach always includes both topical and oral sun protection. High-quality sunblocks like Crystal Tomato® Beyond Sun Protection are used in tandem with oral antioxidants to provide comprehensive photoprotection. This dual-layered defence is essential for preventing relapses and maintaining long-term results.
Each treatment component addresses a different mechanism:
This synergy ensures safer, more consistent outcomes and reduces the risk of over-relying on any single modality — particularly lasers, which may worsen melasma if used aggressively.
Q1: What is the best treatment for melasma?
There is no single “best” treatment for melasma. The most effective approach involves a personalised combination of therapies, including prescription topical creams, oral medications like tranexamic acid, laser treatments (e.g. Spectra, Pro Yellow, Pico), and sun protection. Treatment plans are tailored based on the depth and pattern of pigmentation, skin type, and history of recurrence.
Q2: Can melasma be completely cured?
Melasma is a chronic condition influenced by hormonal and environmental triggers. While it can be significantly improved and managed, it may not be permanently cured. Maintenance treatments, sun protection, and lifestyle adjustments are essential to reduce recurrence.
Q3: Is laser treatment safe for melasma?
Yes — when performed by an experienced doctor using the correct laser settings and protocols. At our clinic, we use low-fluence lasers such as Spectra and Pro Yellow, and may include Pico Laser for superficial pigmentation. Inappropriate or overly aggressive laser use can worsen melasma or cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), which is why careful medical guidance is crucial.
Q4: How long does it take to see results from melasma treatment?
Results vary depending on the severity of pigmentation and type of treatment used. Most patients notice visible improvement within 4 to 8 weeks of starting combination therapy, though full results may take a few months. Consistency and adherence to a complete regimen are key.
Q5: Why does my melasma keep coming back?
Melasma often recurs due to exposure to sunlight, heat, hormonal fluctuations, or stopping treatment too early. Even short-term sun exposure, such as a beach holiday, can trigger a relapse. Long-term maintenance with sun protection and periodic treatments helps prevent recurrence.
Q6: Can I use over-the-counter products to treat melasma?
Over-the-counter lightening products may offer some benefit for very mild pigmentation but are usually insufficient for true melasma. Prescription formulations and professional treatments are typically needed to target the deeper pigment pathways effectively.
Q7: Is melasma more common in certain skin types?
Yes, melasma is more common in individuals with medium to darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types III–V), especially those living in sunny climates like Singapore. These skin types are also more prone to post-inflammatory pigmentation, which is why treatments must be carefully selected.
Q8: Is oral tranexamic acid safe for everyone?
Oral tranexamic acid is generally well tolerated when prescribed and monitored by a doctor. However, it is not suitable for individuals with a history of blood clots, stroke, or certain cardiovascular conditions. A medical consultation is necessary to assess suitability.
Choosing the right clinic for melasma treatment can significantly impact your results — and your skin’s long-term health. Because melasma is a complex, chronic condition with a high tendency for recurrence, it’s important to seek care from a qualified aesthetic doctor who understands how to balance efficacy with safety.
Here are key factors to consider when selecting a melasma treatment clinic:
Melasma requires medical supervision, especially when prescription medications, oral tranexamic acid, or lasers are involved. Look for clinics where treatments are conducted or closely guided by an experienced doctor — not solely by therapists or machines.
At Edwin Lim Medical Aesthetic Clinic, all melasma patients are reviewed by Dr Edwin himself, who tailors each plan according to skin type, pigment depth, and sensitivity.
The best melasma clinics offer a multi-modal approach, combining:
A clinic that offers only laser treatments or facials may not address the root causes of melasma effectively.
Not all lasers are suitable for melasma. The best clinics use low-energy devices designed for pigment and vascular targets — and avoid overly aggressive treatment that may worsen the condition. Ask whether the clinic offers Pro Yellow, Spectra, or Pico Lasers, and whether the doctor is experienced in using them specifically for melasma.
Melasma is not a one-time fix. A good clinic will advise you on maintenance treatments, sun protection, and how to minimise risk of relapse — not just focus on immediate clearance.
Dr Edwin Lim has successfully treated many cases of melasma using a personalised, multi-modal approach that combines medical-grade skincare, oral therapies, and melasma-safe lasers. Whether you're dealing with stubborn pigmentation or recurring flare-ups, our clinic offers evidence-based solutions tailored to your skin type and condition.
Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward clearer, more even-toned skin.
Contact us today at 69042218 or 96372218 to find out more!
