Melasma: Causes and Treatment in Seoul
The short answer
Melasma is a patchy brown or gray-brown pigmentation, usually on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip, driven by sun, hormones and heat, and it tends to come back. At Shinebom Clinic in Jamsil, Seoul, a doctor assesses the pattern first, then may use laser such as StarWalker QX-MAX with strict sun protection.
Key facts
- Triggers: UV and visible light, hormonal change, pregnancy, some medicines, heat
- Behavior: fluctuates and often recurs
- Laser tools: StarWalker QX-MAX, with the doctor choosing settings
- Essential: daily sunscreen and no scrubs
- Pricing: quoted after consultation
What causes melasma?
Pigment cells in melasma are overactive. Ultraviolet light is the main trigger, and heat and visible light can contribute. Hormonal shifts from pregnancy, birth control or hormone therapy are common links, and it often runs in families. It appears more often in people with medium to darker skin tones. Because it is driven from several directions, it is managed rather than cured.
How does a doctor assess it?
At Shinebom Clinic the doctor looks at where the patches sit, how deep the pigment seems, and whether other spots, redness or freckles are present. Mark-Vu analysis can be used to see sun damage under the surface. Distinguishing melasma from sun spots or post-inflammatory marks is important because treatment differs. Aggressive treatment of the wrong condition can worsen pigmentation.
Which Shinebom treatments may help?
The clinic lists melasma under pigmentation laser, using devices such as StarWalker QX-MAX. The doctor chooses a gentle approach and may advise a series with spacing between sessions. Brightening and soothing care can be added through firming and brightening. Redness lasting 2 to 4 days is expected; spots may look darker before fading. Do not pick scabs, and avoid retinol and brightening products for 3 days.
What results are realistic?
Most people see lightening, not total clearing, and flare-ups can occur after sun, heat or hormone changes. Honest planning includes long-term sun care. See pigmentation laser aftercare before booking.
When to see a doctor
Have any dark patch that is raised, changing, bleeding or has irregular edges checked, as it may not be melasma. Tell the doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or taking hormonal medicines.
Frequently asked questions
Can melasma be cured?
It is generally managed, not cured. Patches can lighten but often return with sun, heat or hormonal triggers.
Can laser make melasma worse?
Incorrect or overly strong treatment can. That is why a doctor assesses the type first and plans settings carefully.
What sunscreen habit helps most?
Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, reapplied outdoors, plus shade and a hat. Sun protection matters as much as any procedure.
Related pages
General information from Shinebom Clinic, not personal medical advice. Results and recovery vary between individuals, and all procedures carry possible risks and side effects. A doctor will confirm what suits you at consultation.
Bloom yourself, in your own way
Tell us your skin concerns and dates in English. Shinebom Clinic is a 3-minute walk from Jamsil Station, exits 8 and 9.