Pigmentation
Understanding Hyperpigmentation and Melasma
A dark patch is a description, not a diagnosis. Melasma, acne marks, and sun spots fade on different timelines.
Dr. L. Divya Skin Clinic
15 September 2026 · 3 min read
Three patterns that get mixed up
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is the flat mark left after acne, eczema, or a burn. It follows the shape of the old rash. Melasma is usually symmetric on the cheeks, forehead, or upper lip. Solar lentigines are smaller spots on chronically sun-exposed skin.
A changing dark spot with irregular colour needs examination for other diagnoses before any bleaching cream or peel.
Light, heat, and hormones
Ultraviolet light darkens these patches. Visible light also matters in melasma, which is why a tinted sunscreen is often suggested. Heat from cooking or long sun exposure can aggravate some people even when they feel they did not burn.
Pregnancy and hormonal contraception are relevant to melasma. Stopping a contraceptive is a decision to make with the prescribing doctor, not from a skin article alone.
A sensible order of treatment
Daily sunscreen and stopping irritant fairness creams come first. Prescription creams may follow for a defined period. Peels and lasers are considered when pigment is stable and the person can manage aftercare.
Melasma often returns. A clinic that promises permanent removal is describing a wish, not the usual course of the condition.
Related clinic pages
Skin
Hyperpigmentation
Assessment of dark patches, melasma, and marks left by acne or eczema, with a plan that includes sun protection.
Aesthetics
Chemical Peels
Supervised exfoliating peels for selected concerns such as dullness, acne, and some pigmentation.
Laser
Laser Treatments
Consultation for laser options used in hair reduction, pigmentation, and selected acne-scar concerns.
Sources
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