Top 4 Causes of Melasma

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD answers: What causes Melasma and hyperpigmentation?

What causes melasma, and what sort of melasma treatment is available?


Raffy Karamanoukian, MD
11 months ago
By Raffy Karamanoukian, MD - Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon

Melasma is a benign skin condition characterized by excessive pigment deposition in the skin.  Hyperpigmentation is generally diffuse in the area of the upper cheeks, forehead, and jawline. 

The top 4 causes of melasma are as follows:

  • Hormones (Estrogen, Progesterone)
  • Genetics
  • Sun Exposure
  • Inflammation of the skin

Treatment is based on reducing the production of pigment in the melanocytes.  Although there are several alternative natural treatments, the most effective are the following:

  • Hydroquinone
  • Chemical peels
  • IPL
  • Fractionated Laser (Fraxel)

However, be careful as the last three treatments, although effective, can actually worsen the melasma if not done by an experienced physician.

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