Stubborn facial discoloration—especially on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip—is often melasma, a chronic skin disorder caused by excess melanin in melanocytes (and their crosstalk with keratinocytes). At BioSpa in Orange County, we tailor safe, effective treatment of melasma for all skin types, from very fair to darker skin, with plans that prioritize sun protection, precision topical products, and effective in-office procedures for long-term control.
Melasma is a skin condition that presents as light brown to slate patches or freckles on sun-exposed areas, and it most commonly appears on the face. It’s sometimes called the “mask of pregnancy” or “pregnancy mask” (chloasma) as it can appear during pregnancy. While benign, it can recur without a prevention plan.
Common causes of melasma include sun exposure (both UVA/UVB and visible light), hormonal changes (such as rising estrogen and progesterone during pregnancy and the use of oral contraceptives/birth control pills), certain thyroid conditions, heat, and genetics. Melasma is more common in women and in darker skin.
To treat melasma, we build a phased plan that balances efficacy with your lifestyle:
FADE DISCOLORATION WITH MEDICAL-GRADE TOPICALS
At BioSpa®, we prescribe clinically proven creams, serums and other products, including hydroquinone, tretinoin, and azelaic acid, to reduce hyperpigmentation. These work gradually and safely to even skin tone.
BRIGHTEN & RENEW WITH CHEMICAL PEELS
Skin peels, such as those with glycolic acid, exfoliate the epidermis and lighten melasma patches. Your chemical peel treatment is customized to your skin type to avoid unwanted side effects.
The Cosmelan peel in particular is a professional depigmentation treatment that is designed to significantly reduce dark spots and help address stubborn melasma. It combines a potent blend of ingredients including azelaic acid, kojic acid, phytic acid, and ascorbic acid to target and reduce excessive pigmentation while promoting skin renewal.
Learn More about Chemical Peels
GENTLE LASER REJUVENATION FOR MELASMA
Clear + Brilliant® is a non-ablative fractional laser that helps improve skin tone and reduce areas of hyperpigmentation. By creating microscopic treatment zones in the epidermis, it stimulates new cell growth and enhances overall brightness with minimal downtime. When paired with sun protection and topical therapy, Clear + Brilliant® can support long-term melasma management.
Learn More about Clear + Brilliant® Laser
If you’re ready to address rosacea, our experienced team at BioSpa in Newport Beach offers personalized treatment plans for patients across Orange County. Contact us today to find the best solution for your skin.
There is no denying “pumpkin and spice make everything nice.” From your favorite pumpkin spice latte to your mom’s freshly baked pumpkin pie, but have you ever considered the benefits of slathering pumpkin on your skin? Pumpkin contains a significant
