When it comes to being at your best physically, a clear, smooth face is one of the top priorities. Of course! Our face is very important. We care for it with our extensive skincare regimens because it’s vital to our lives. However, issues such as pigmentation and melasma can’t be defeated by simple remedies. 

What You Can Do About Pigmentation and Melasma

Prevention of pigmentation and melasma can be done via sunblock and lightening creams. You also need to lessen your exposure to the sunlight, going out only when it’s a bit shady, or using umbrellas and hats. Reality is though, we can get busy that we forget to be careful. What’s more, pigmentation and melasma aren’t just caused by outside factors. 

Curing these skin conditions can also take time if you’re not doing it right, or if you’re not going to the right people. What you need to finally be free of these is the knowledge from experts who truly care for you and know what they are talking about. 

Here, Dr. Rizza Gervacio – Mabilin of the Belo Medical Group answers our fast questions on pigmentation and melasma. Find out what they really are and how you can totally get rid of them with Belo. 

Q&A on Pigmentation and Melasma

#1 What is the difference between pigmentation and melasma? 

Dr. Mabilin says that pigmentation and melasma are related. “Pigmentation refers to the coloring of our skin, hair, and eyes. It is due to the deposition of the pigment melanin produced by melanocytes.” 

Dark spots are due to the overproduction of pigments. External factors can affect our pigmentation, second only to our genetics so every person has a different rate of production of melanin. 

On the other hand, melasma is a form of pigmentation disorder. These are brown to grayish patches on the skin, often found on the cheekbones, nose, forehead, and upper lip. 

#2 What are the most common cause of pigmentation and melasma? 

Pigmentations that leave spots on your face are often due to sun damage, inflammation, medicines, darker skin type, and injury. 

Melasma is caused by darker skin, family history, hormones (pregnancy, use of OCPs, stress, hormonal diseases), and sun exposure. 

On either front, they are both imperfections that a lot of people have. Since their causes are beyond skin deep, they need proper attention to get rid of them permanently. 

#3 How can I get rid of pigmentation and melasma quickly and effectively? 

Picosure- This treatment uses a picosecond laser that delivers energy directly to the affected area without heat, lessening the risk of skin damage. This laser triggers pressure into the dermis to stimulate collagen and elastin production.  It is a fast remedy, it can be done in less than two hours, allowing one hour before the 10 to 15 laser session for the topical anesthesia. 

Fraxel – The major target of this treatment is aging/ sun-damaged skin via laser columns that penetrate deep into the skin. This causes collagen production. Microthermal zones are created also through Fraxel which treats fractions of tissues at a time leaving the surrounding tissued intact. There is minimal downtime and is advisable to do once a month, depending on your pigmentation and melasma. 

Angel Whitening – This laser that breaks down pigments into smaller particles every session. There is no downtime, can be done in 10 to 15 minutes, for an average of six to 10 sessions done once a month. 

Revlite Laser– Laser pulses are used to blast out pigments safely and effectively. This leaves behind smooth skin which looks new and rejuvenated. Best done in multiple sessions, two weeks apart. 

Cosmelan Depigmentation Treatment – A two-step treatment that inhibits the production of tyrosinase enzyme to prevent melanin formation and hyperpigmentation. The first step involves a mask that needs to be applied to the affected area from six to 10 hours. The second step is the use of the Cosmelan 2 cream and sublock for three weeks. 

Belo Bright – Best for melasma. This treatment uses microneedling technology to inject the special serum of gluthathione and tranexamic acid. Best done 1 to 2 times a week for at least 12 sessions. 

Ready to book your Belo day? We have clinics located around Metro Manila, Pampanga, Cebu and Davao! Give us a call at 8819-BELO (2356) or book your appointment here. 

Please note that prices may change without prior notice and the final price will be based on the doctor’s quotation upon consultation.

Editor’s note: This article has been updated as of April 2024.