Melasma is often linked to hormonal shifts such as pregnancy or birth control, along with sun exposure, stress, and family history. It tends to appear more often in those with darker skin tones and can come and go over a lifetime.

Will melasma come back after laser sessions?

It can. Melasma is a chronic condition, and new patches may develop with continued sun exposure or hormonal changes. Periodic maintenance sessions and consistent sun protection help extend your results.

How many sessions will I need?

Most patients need several sessions spaced a few weeks apart. Your exact plan depends on the type, depth, and extent of your pigment, which we map out during your evaluation.

Why is provider experience so important for melasma?

Melasma is heat-sensitive, and the wrong settings can worsen pigment. Outcomes depend heavily on careful device settings and an experienced clinician, which is why a thorough skin evaluation always comes first.

Aesthetics

Melasma Care

Personalized laser care that works to soften uneven pigment and restore a more even, natural-looking complexion.

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Treatment room

How it works

Melasma shows up as tan, gray, or brown patches across the forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, or upper lip, often tied to sun exposure or hormonal shifts. At Ridgeline, we use the Alma Harmony XL Pro, a laser and light-based platform cleared for more than 65 indications, including pigment concerns. The energy is absorbed by melanin in pigmented cells and breaks it into smaller particles, which the body gradually clears over time. Because melasma is a chronic, heat-sensitive condition, settings are chosen carefully to refine tone rather than provoke it. Most patients need several sessions spaced a few weeks apart, paired with daily sun protection and a supportive skincare routine to maintain results.

What to expect

A calm, considered process from consult to aftercare.

Step 01

Consultation

We evaluate your skin type, pigment depth, and likely triggers, then build a personalized plan. Because melasma can be sensitive to heat, this step guides how conservatively we set the laser.

Step 02

Treatment

Gentle laser or light energy is directed at pigmented areas in a focused session. Treated spots may darken briefly at first, which is expected as the pigment begins to break down and clear.

Step 03

Aftercare

Strict daily sun protection is essential. We pair your sessions with a supportive skincare regimen and a maintenance plan, since melasma is chronic and can recur with UV exposure or hormonal change.

Who it's for

A fit for people living with melasma who want a considered, provider-guided approach to softening pigment. It suits those willing to commit to sun protection and ongoing skincare, since lasting results depend on maintenance.

Frequently asked

Questions, answered with care.

Individual results may vary. Information on this page is educational and is not a substitute for personalized medical advice.

Next step

Curious if Melasma Care fits your plan?

We walk every patient through the science before recommending anything. Reach out to start a quiet, considered conversation with our provider team.