What is the best way to get rid of melasma?

Melasma is a condition that is managed. This overproduction of pigment is mostcommonly induced by hormones (pregnancy, thyroid conditions)and exacerbated by UV exposure(sunlight, tanning beds),  medication (birth control pills) and even heat.  Understanding these as some of the various triggers for it are the most important tools you'll have in keeping it under control.  A clinical skin care regimen that incorporates a series of chemical peels or a more aggressive TCA peel, such as the OBAGI Blue Peel has produced excellent results in reducing the appearance of pigmentation as a result of melasma.  Home care that is inclusive of a lightener (i.e. hydroquinone)and sun protection(minimum SPF 30) are essential. Incorporating an antioxidant to serve as an additional layer of protection from the sun during the day and a retinol at night to aid in exfoliating dead surface skin cells will also be beneficial. Simply put, there is no cure, but definitely a condition that can be managed. 

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. Melasma is a lifelong condition that cannot be completely "cured." So, from my perspective, it's less about trying to get rid of it - and more about how we can properly manage it.I suggest seeing a board-certified cosmetic dermatologist for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Melasma is a chronic skin condition that usually relapses. However it can be treated successfully and can be controlled. First and foremost is avoiding sun exposure that triggers the overproduction of melanin that leads to the pigmentation seen on the face. Avoiding other triggers such as heat or hormones can help.
There are various treament options including skin care products like triluma,cosmelan, chemical peels, plant based lightening creams, as well as more newer treatment modalities like lasers that uses pico technology.  

Our office sees patients with melasma from all over the world. We specialize in it. Melasma requires a comprehensive cream program, chemical peels, and sun avoidance. We have great success treating melasma this way and then maintaining creams to prevent the pigmentation from returning. Our controlled depth peel is one great modality used to control melasma for patients who seek perfection. We also have the 3 step peel which significantly helps pigment control when used with the cream program. 

Melasma is a multi-functional, complicated and often very
frustrating condition.  I always stress
to patients that it will not go away overnight and often times may not totally
go away. However, there are a few key things that will make it better.  Proper skincare is essential and a physical
sunscreen of 30 or higher is a must. I also always stress the importance of reapplying
sunscreen if you are out in the sun every 60 minutes. I also recommend a
compound cream of Hydroquinone, retinol and hydrocortisone. Note that this
should only be used for 8 weeks on, and then a 4 week break in which you can
use a HQ free cream. In my experience, the best way to treat stubborn melasma
has been with medium depth chemical peels. You will usually need between 3-5
peels spaced 1 month apart.

Melasma has multiple causes and therefore has multiple treatments.  It is likely a lifelong condition but can be held under control.  Steps to successfully treat melasma include:-Avoid UV light and exposure and wear daily sunscreen-Investigate hormonal causes -Use of topicals (skin lighteners, retinols, etc)-Use of chemical peels (i.e. melanage, etc)-Use of LASERS (i.e. IPL, erbium, Nd:YAG, ablative treatments)