What Is The Best Peel Or Treatment For Melasma?

Melasma can be frustrating, but you can achieve a clearer, more even complexion with the right treatment. While melasma isn’t harmful, it can be persistent and difficult to treat without professional intervention. It can also fluctuate with sun exposure, making long-term management essential.

At M Spa Face & Body in Webster, TX, we use advanced options like the Melanage Peel and VI Peels to fade stubborn pigmentation. These treatments target discoloration at its source, helping to improve your skin tone and texture. Read on to find out more about melasma and the different treatments available.

To find out more about the best peel or treatment for melasma, call Dr. Deborah Miller or Shauna McLaughlin PA-C, at (281) 886-7006 who will be happy to advise you.

What Is Melasma?

Melasma is a common skin condition that causes darker, discolored patches to appear on the skin, most often on the face. It primarily affects women—especially those with medium to darker skin tones—and is sometimes referred to as chloasma or the “mask of pregnancy” when it occurs during pregnancy. These patches can vary in color from light brown to dark brown or even blue-gray. While melasma is harmless, it can be persistent, with pigmentation often darkening in the summer and fading slightly in the winter.

Melasma vs Hyperpigmentation

Melasma appears as larger, symmetrical patches of discoloration, often on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip, while other types of hyperpigmentation, like sunspots, tend to be smaller and more localized. What melasma looks like is often influenced by hormonal changes and sun exposure, making it more persistent and likely to return without proper care.

What Causes Melasma?

Melasma develops when the skin’s pigment-producing cells, called melanocytes, become overactive, leading to dark patches on the skin. Sun exposure is the most significant trigger, as ultraviolet (UV) and infrared (heat) radiation stimulate excess melanin production. It’s much more common in women than in men, and hormonal fluctuations, such as those during pregnancy or from birth control, are triggers. Genetics, thyroid disorders, and certain medications—especially those that increase sun sensitivity—can also contribute to melasma.

How Chemical Peels Help Treat Melasma

Chemical peels are a well-established treatment for melasma, helping to lift excess pigmentation and promote a more even skin tone. These treatments work by accelerating cellular turnover, allowing dark patches to fade as fresh, new skin emerges. The strength and formulation of a peel determine how deeply it penetrates, with milder options gently brightening the skin and stronger peels targeting deeper pigmentation.

Unlike some topical treatments that take longer to show results, chemical peels can provide noticeable improvement in a shorter time. When combined with sun protection and an effective skincare routine, they are an effective way to manage melasma and prevent it from worsening.

Melanage Peel for Melasma: What to Expect

The Melanage Peel is a medical-grade chemical peel designed to target melasma and uneven pigmentation, revealing a brighter, more even skin tone. During the treatment, a white mask is applied that stays on the skin for several hours, followed by a structured at-home skincare regimen to enhance results. The Melanage Peel is safe for all skin types and causes little to no discomfort, with most patients experiencing mild tightness or a sunburn-like sensation in the days following treatment. As the skin naturally sheds dull, pigmented cells, it reveals a clearer, more radiant complexion.

VI Peel for Melasma: Is It Right for You?

The VI Peel is a good option for treating melasma if you’re looking for a chemical peel that effectively reduces pigmentation without being too harsh. It works by exfoliating the outer layers of skin, lifting excess pigment, and stimulating collagen production to improve skin texture. The VI Peel is designed for all skin types, making it a safer choice for those prone to hyperpigmentation. For the best outcome, regular treatments may be recommended along with ongoing sun protection.

Ultraclear for Melasma: How Laser Treatments Work

UltraClear laser therapy is a non-invasive and highly effective solution for treating melasma. It breaks down excess pigmentation while stimulating collagen production. Using advanced Laser-Coring™ technology, it targets melanin buildup without damaging surrounding skin, making it a safe option for all skin types. During treatment, a precise laser beam penetrates the skin, helping to fade dark patches and improve overall skin texture. As collagen production increases, the skin becomes smoother, firmer, and more evenly toned over time.

WiQO for Melasma: A Non-Invasive Approach

The WiQO PRX-T33 BioRevitalization Treatment is a non-invasive solution for melasma without the peeling or downtime associated with traditional chemical peels. This advanced treatment uses a combination of 33% TCA and hydrogen peroxide to penetrate deep into the skin, helping to improve pigmentation, texture, and overall skin quality. WiQO is safe for all skin types and is safe to use all year round. At M Spa Face & Body, it comes as a package of four treatments spaced a week apart, followed by occasional maintenance sessions.

How To Maintain Results and Prevent Melasma From Returning

Long-term care is essential to keep melasma from returning. Daily sun protection is the most important step, as UV exposure is a major factor. A consistent skincare routine with brightening agents, like vitamin C or hydroquinone, can further support results. You may also consider combining treatments—such as chemical peels with laser therapy or non-invasive options like WiQO, which can enhance and prolong improvements. Regular follow-up treatments, when recommended, help control pigmentation and keep skin looking its best. Our experts at M Spa Face & Body will advise you on the best treatments available for your skin type.

Who Treats Melasma in Webster, TX?

At M Spa Face & Body, we have a highly skilled team of medical professionals dedicated to safety, precision, and natural results. The practice combines proven technology with expert care to create personalized treatment plans for each patient. If you’re looking for trusted specialists to help you manage melasma, contact us to schedule a consultation at (281) 886-7006.