Melasma and other forms of pigmentation are diagnosed carefully before treatment begins, because the wrong approach — too aggressive a peel or laser, for instance — can worsen melasma instead of improving it.
Why the diagnosis matters so much here
"Pigmentation" covers several different problems. Melasma is hormonally driven and notoriously reactive — heat, sun, and harsh treatment can all make it rebound darker. Post-inflammatory marks after acne behave completely differently and usually respond faster. Sun-induced pigmentation sits at yet another depth in the skin. Each calls for a different strength of treatment, which is why a plan bought off a menu so often disappoints.
How we treat pigmentation at Skin Therapeutics
Dr. Chopade builds a layered plan: targeted topical therapy, gentle in-clinic procedures paced to your skin's response, and strict sun-protection guidance, since pigmentation control is as much about prevention as it is about active treatment.
For melasma specifically, expect a steadier timeline than for other pigmentation — the goal is fading that holds, not a fast result that rebounds within a season. Maintenance and daily sunscreen are discussed openly at the first visit, because they're the difference between temporary and lasting improvement.