Can melasma be painful? What should I do?

Question

I have melasma on both of my jawlines. It is flat, reddish brown and painful. It's been here for 2 weeks. I saw a dentist and my doctor and they don't know what's going on. I had labs and MRI and they were normal. I'm assuming it's melasma. Can melasma be painful?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, Melasma needs a combination approach to get the best improvement and will need a series of treatments. In our practice, we combine Clear + Brilliant, peels, microneedling/PRP, Aerolase, and sometimes Erbium (Cool Laser) to get the best results. See an expert for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Melasma itself is not painful. However, sometimes there may be associated inflammation from an unknown source that can be the cause of the skin tenderness. Best, Dr. KaramanoukianLos Angeles

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Melasma is a painless condition. If you have pain, seek evaluation from a medical dermatologist.BestH Karamanoukian MD FACS

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Please post a photo to better help you.  Melasma should not be painful.  I suggest Cosmelan to best treat melasma.  Please consult a board certified dermatologist to examine your skin. Best, Dr. Green

Alex Eshaghian, MD, PhD · Answer

Thank you for your question tryingtofigure. Melasma is a common condition characterized by the appearance of dark patches on the skin. It can be challenging to treat. Areas most commonly affected include the upper cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. Melasma is not commonly seen on the jawline and melasma is not associated with pain. I recommend speaking with a doctor for specific recommendations. Good luck!

Can melasma be painful? What should I do?

Answers (6)