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Patterns and Types of Melasma

Patterns and Types of Melasma

9 July, 2019

Melasma is a skin pigmentation problem which is caused by increased melanin in the skin and characterised by patches on the most sun-exposed parts of the skin.

Over production of melanin in the skin leads to brownish/greyish patches that form a characteristic pattern known as melasma.

It is particularly common on those with darker skin and affects women more than men. Sun exposure is a key factor but some individuals are also more genetically predisposed to having melasma. Hormones can also trigger or aggravate melasma.

Understanding Melasma

Understanding the exact nature of melasma is key to recommending the right treatment programme. There are 2 key types of melasma which affect the longer term outlook for the patient:

  1. Transient melasma – a temporary condition – often associated with a hormonal issue such as pregnancy/contraceptive/HRT and will therefore generally pass
  2. Persistent melasma – this is will carry on over a year

Patterns of Melasma

There are three typical patterns of melasma, indicating the areas where excessive pigmentation appears:

  1. Centrofacial – the most common, affecting forehead, cheeks, upper lip, nose and chin
  2. Malar – affects cheeks and nose
  3. Mandibular – affects jawbone

Types of Melasma

There are also 3 key types of melasma to consider and diagnose:

  1. Epidermal: increased melanin in the epidermis (outer layer of skin)
  2. Dermal: increased melanin in the dermis (mid layer of skin)
  3. Mixed: pigmentation in both epidermis and dermis

Diagnosing Melasma

Determining the exact nature of melasma is key to establishing the right treatment programme and as outlined, it is quite a complex condition with a number of variables.

At Clinicbe Skin of Colour, consultations include assessment of relevant medical history and a detailed examination of the skin.

Visia Skin Assessment

In addition, Clinicbe Skin of Colour have a Visia 3D Skin imaging system which can be used to reveal unseen detail on issues such as sun damage, skin tone variation, UV spots – as well as pore size and wrinkles.

This helps to determine the best approach for treatment.

Treatment of Hyperpigmentation

The good news is that Aesthetic Physicians such as Dr Barbara Kubicka, Founder of Clinicbe Skin of Colour, are now choosing to specialise in treatment of melasma for clients with darker skin tones including black, Asian or mixed-parentage skin types.

Patchy areas of darker pigmentation and uneven skin tone can now be treated with a range of options including in-clinic treatments and at-home skin care regimes that can significantly reduce the appearance of hyperpigmentation.

Clinicbe Skin of Colour

Clinicbe Skin of Colour offers a range of services for clients with skin of colour, including skin treatments, acne and hair loss. Pigmentation problems are a particular specialism for Dr Barbara Kubicka.

The clinic is based in Knightsbridge, London – easily accessible from Chelsea, Belgravia, Mayfair and Kensington.

To learn more or book an appointment, please contact our team: