Melasma vs Pigmentation — How to Tell the Difference & Which Treatment Works Best

Melasma vs Pigmentation — Understanding Your Skin Condition

Dark spots and patches are among the most common skin complaints at Skin Decor Clinic, Dwarka. Patients often use the terms pigmentation and melasma interchangeably, but they're different conditions that require different treatments. Getting the correct diagnosis — not just a generic lightening cream — is the key to real results.

What is Melasma?

Melasma is a hormonal pigmentation disorder characterised by symmetrical, brownish-grey patches on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and chin. It's extremely common in Indian women, particularly those who:

• Are pregnant or on hormonal contraceptives
• Have thyroid imbalances
• Have significant sun exposure history

Melasma is stubborn — it often returns without ongoing maintenance and sun protection.

What is Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)?

PIH are the dark spots that appear after acne, eczema, burns, or any skin injury. Unlike melasma, PIH is not hormonal and tends to fade more predictably with the right treatment.

Treatments Available at Skin Decor, Dwarka

For Melasma:

• Q-Switch Nd:YAG Laser: Breaks down deep melanin deposits without damaging surrounding skin
• Chemical Peels (Kojic/Glycolic): Exfoliates surface pigment and suppresses melanin production
• Medical-grade depigmentation creams: Prescription-strength agents like Tretinoin, Kojic acid, and Azelaic acid
• Cosmelan peel: A specialist peel protocol for resistant melasma

For PIH (Post-Acne Dark Spots):

• Fractional laser resurfacing
• Vitamin C mesotherapy
• Glycolic + Salicylic peels

The Skin Decor Approach — Diagnosis First

Dr. Monica Chahar Godara (MD, FIDP Germany) never prescribes lightening treatments without a thorough diagnosis. Misidentifying melasma as regular pigmentation and using the wrong laser can cause a rebound flare — making it worse. At Skin Decor, a Wood's lamp examination and hormone panel are part of the initial assessment to ensure the correct protocol is chosen.

How Long Does Pigmentation Treatment Take?

Results depend on depth and type:

• Surface PIH: Visible improvement in 3–4 weeks
• Deep melasma: 3–6 months with consistent treatment and strict sun protection

Strict daily SPF 50+ is non-negotiable — sun exposure without protection will undo any treatment progress.

📞 Get your pigmentation diagnosed correctly: Book a consultation