When dealing with skin discolouration, many people wonder whether they are experiencing hyperpigmentation or melasma. While both involve dark patches on the skin, they are not the same. Understanding the difference between melasma vs hyperpigmentation is essential for choosing the right treatment.
Below is a quick comparison chart to help you see the main differences:
| Feature | Melasma | Hyperpigmentation |
|---|---|---|
| Cause | Hormonal changes, sun exposure, genetics | Inflammation, acne scars, injuries, sun damage |
| Appearance & Location | Symmetrical brown or gray patches, often on cheeks, forehead, upper lip | Dark spots or patches of varying sizes, anywhere on the body |
| Common Triggers | Pregnancy, birth control, heat, UV rays | Skin trauma, eczema, cuts, excessive sun exposure |
| Treatment Focus | Reduce pigment production and protect from triggers | Treat underlying cause and fade spots over time |
What Causes Melasma
Melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation primarily triggered by hormonal factors. It is common in women and often appears during pregnancy (known as the “mask of pregnancy”) or after starting hormonal contraceptives. Sun exposure and heat play a significant role in worsening melasma because UV rays stimulate melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin.
These patches typically appear on the face, including the cheeks, forehead, bridge of the nose, and upper lip, and they tend to be symmetrical. While melasma is not harmful, it can affect confidence, leading many to seek professional treatment. For more in-depth options, visit our melasma treatment guide.
What Causes Hyperpigmentation
Hyperpigmentation is a broader term that refers to any darkening of the skin due to excess melanin production. Unlike melasma, it’s not limited to hormonal causes. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), for example, often follows acne breakouts, eczema flare-ups, or even minor cuts and burns.
Sun damage is another leading contributor. Over time, repeated exposure to UV rays causes dark spots known as sunspots or age spots. Hyperpigmentation can appear anywhere on the body and affects people of all skin types.
Treatment & Prevention
Treating pigmentation issues requires understanding the underlying cause and following a consistent routine that addresses pigment production and protects the skin.
Melasma
Melasma treatments often focus on calming the overactive pigment cells and preventing further stimulation. Our medical professional may recommend topical treatments like hydroquinone, azelaic acid, or tretinoin. Chemical peels and certain laser treatments can also be effective, but these should always be performed by professionals experienced with melasma. Daily sun protection is crucial, broad-spectrum SPF and protective clothing can prevent melasma from worsening. Consistency is key, as melasma can be persistent and prone to recurrence.
Hyperpigmentation
For hyperpigmentation, treatment typically involves addressing the root cause. If it’s post-inflammatory (such as after acne), treating breakouts first is important. Lightening agents like vitamin C, niacinamide, or glycolic acid can help fade dark spots over time. In-office procedures like microdermabrasion, laser therapy, and chemical peels may also speed up the process. Preventative measures like sunscreen and avoiding skin trauma (picking acne or scratching rashes) are just as important to keep new spots from forming.
Book a consultation at our Niagara Falls medical aesthetics clinic.
MD TREATMENT LOUNGE
8302 McLeod Road – Unit 2
Niagara Falls, Ontario L2H 3K1
(905) 353-0707
info@mdtreatmentlounge.com
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