What Is Melasma and Why Is It So Difficult to Treat?
Melasma is a chronic pigmentary disorder that causes brown or greyish-brown patches on the face — typically on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and chin. It is especially prevalent in Indian women due to higher melanin activity and hormonal influences. Factors like sun exposure, pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and genetic predisposition trigger and worsen melasma. Unlike simple tanning, melasma involves deeper pigment deposition in the dermis, making it resistant to over-the-counter creams and requiring a sustained, multi-modal treatment approach.
How DermcareMD Treats Melasma
Dr. Neha Athalye at DermcareMD, Kothrud, uses a stepwise approach to melasma management. Treatment begins with a thorough assessment using dermoscopy and Wood's lamp to determine the depth of pigmentation (epidermal, dermal, or mixed). The plan typically includes prescription depigmenting agents (triple combination creams, tranexamic acid), chemical peels tailored for melasma (glycolic, lactic, or modified Jessner's peels), and in select cases, low-fluence Q-switched laser toning. Strict sun protection with broad-spectrum SPF 50 is a non-negotiable part of the protocol. Dr. Athalye also addresses hormonal triggers where applicable and provides a long-term maintenance strategy.
- Facial melasma (cheeks, forehead, upper lip)
- Pregnancy-related melasma (chloasma)
- Hormonal melasma (oral contraceptive use)
- Sun-aggravated melasma
- Epidermal, dermal & mixed melasma
- Melasma recurrence prevention
Why Choose DermcareMD
Expert Dermatology Care in Kothrud, Pune
DermcareMD is recognised as one of the leading clinics for melasma treatment in Kothrud, Pune. Dr. Neha Athalye's approach combines dermoscopic assessment, evidence-based topical therapy, carefully selected chemical peels, and laser toning — along with a long-term maintenance plan to minimise recurrence.
View Full Service DetailsFAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit Us
DermcareMD Skin & Hair Clinic
Mon, Wed, Fri: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM & 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Tue, Thu, Sat: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Book Your Consultation Today
Get expert melasma treatment from Dr. Neha Athalye at DermcareMD Skin & Hair Clinic, Kothrud, Pune.