Melasma Treatment in Singapore: What a Doctor Checks First
Melasma is a common cause of facial pigmentation in Singapore. It appears as brown or grey-brown patches, most often on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip, and it is influenced by sunlight, heat and hormones. Because it behaves differently from other kinds of pigmentation, the first step is confirming that it is melasma.
Is it melasma, sun spots or post-acne marks?
These can look alike. Sun spots are usually well defined and appear where the skin gets the most sun. Post-acne marks follow where breakouts have been. Melasma tends to appear as broader, symmetrical patches and can darken with heat, sunlight or hormonal changes.
The distinction matters because a treatment suited to sun spots can make melasma worse if it is applied with the wrong settings.
What the doctor checks first
- The pattern and depth of the pigment, with Visia skin analysis
- Your skin type, and how your skin has reacted to past treatments
- Triggers such as sun exposure, heat, hormonal changes and medications
- Whether more than one type of pigmentation is present
How melasma is usually managed
Melasma tends to need ongoing management rather than a single clearing course. A plan commonly combines:
- Daily sun protection, which underpins every other treatment
- Prescribed topical care, where appropriate
- Gentle picosecond laser, planned as a course with conservative settings
The plan is reviewed as your skin responds, and settings are adjusted rather than increased quickly.
What to expect
Pigment can look darker for several days after a laser session before it clears. Melasma can return with sun exposure or hormonal changes, so maintenance is part of the plan rather than a sign that treatment has failed.
Starting at RP Clinic
A first pico laser visit is $88 nett. It includes your doctor's consultation, Visia skin analysis and your first session, with GST included. If melasma is confirmed, the doctor will explain the plan and the cost of any further sessions during your consultation, before anything is agreed.
We are at Level 4, Tang Plaza, 310 Orchard Road, directly above Orchard MRT, open daily 10:00–20:00.
