MELASMA: MORE THAN JUST PIGMENTATION

Melasma isn’t just a cosmetic concern. It’s a chronic skin condition that can impact confidence, self-image, and daily life. Often triggered by hormones, sun exposure, and inflammation, melasma appears as patchy, blotchy hyperpigmentation, usually on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and jawline.

But here’s the truth: melasma isn’t “fixable” with one facial. It requires education, a strategic approach, and ongoing care from experts who understand its complexity.

WHAT IS MELASMA?

Melasma is caused by overactive melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in your skin. It’s most common in women, especially those who are:

• On birth control or hormone therapy

• Pregnant or postpartum

• Undergoing fertility treatments

• Naturally predisposed due to genetics or skin tone

• Frequently exposed to sun or heat

Melasma can be:

• Epidermal (surface-level)

• Dermal (deeper, vascular-associated)

• Mixed (the most common)

Understanding which type you have is essential to treating it safely and effectively.

WHY MELASMA KEEPS COMING BACK

Melasma is chronic, not curable, which means the goal isn’t perfection, it’s control. Without consistent management, pigment can return due to:

• Hormonal fluctuations

• Heat and sun exposure

• Inflammation (from skincare, waxing, or aggressive treatments)

• Even visible light (from screens and indoor lighting)

At Glow Lab, our job is to help you safely reduce pigment, strengthen your skin barrier, and maintain results with the right treatments over time.

OUR MELASMA TREATMENT STRATEGY

We use a layered approach based on clinical protocols, skin science, and lived experience. All treatments are customized per skin tone and pigment depth, especially for Fitzpatrick IV–VI.

1. AEROLASE NEO ELITE

Targets deep pigment, inflammation, and vascular triggers

Aerolase uses a 1064nm wavelength to safely treat melasma without downtime, pain, or risk of rebound pigmentation. It penetrates deep into the skin and targets:

• Melanin (pigment)

• Hemoglobin (vascular inflammation)

• Water (collagen stimulation)

It’s our top choice for mixed or dermal melasma, especially on deeper skin tones.

🗓 Recommended: 3–6 sessions, spaced 3–4 weeks apart

2. DP4 MICRONEEDLING FOR MELASMA

Improves skin texture and regulates pigment production

Dp4 microneedling creates microchannels that trigger skin renewal and allow targeted pigment-inhibiting serums to penetrate deeper. We use MG-BL (Brite Lite) and copper peptides, powerful tyrosinase inhibitors, to help shut down overproduction of melanin at the cellular level.

✅ Safe for most melasma types
✅ Customized depth to target epidermal vs. dermal pigment
✅ Often paired with LED for amplified results

🗓 Recommended: 4–6 treatments, every 2–4 weeks

3. ESSENTIAL 30% GLYCOLIC & LACTIC PEEL

A superficial GlyMed Plus peel, introduced only once your pigment is stable

This is a superficial peel, one step deeper than our very superficial options, built on 15% glycolic and 15% lactic acid. Lactic acid above 5% is a natural tyrosinase inhibitor, which is exactly why this formula suits pigment-driven skin.

Because it works at a superficial depth, expect mild flaking for a few days. This is not a no-downtime treatment, and it is not where we start with melasma. It is introduced only after your skin has been stabilized, and it requires prep first. It is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. What that prep looks like:

• 1–3 very superficial peels first

• 2 weeks of home care prep (Fitzpatrick I–III), or 2–4 weeks (Fitzpatrick IV–VI)

• Can be performed in the same session as your Aerolase treatment; alternated 14–21 days apart from microneedling

🗓 Recommended: 6–8 treatments, spaced 2 weeks apart, then monthly maintenance

MELASMA-SAFE HOMECARE MATTERS MOST

We educate every client on how to protect your results and prevent rebound pigmentation with a precise home routine:

• Tyrosinase inhibitors (e.g., Kojic Acid, Licorice, Niacinamide)

• Non-irritating Retinaldehyde at night

• Barrier-building hydrators

• Tinted Mineral SPF with iron oxides
  (important: visible light worsens melasma, iron oxides protect against it)

• Gentle exfoliants or pigment masks as needed

💡 We recommend Colorescience SPF and clinical homecare for ongoing pigment suppression.

WHY MELASMA TREATMENT AT GLOW LAB IS DIFFERENT

✔️ Safe for all skin tones
✔️ No harsh peels, lasers, or shortcuts
✔️ Rooted in science, trust, and long-term skin health
✔️ Focused on inflammation reduction, not just brightening
✔️ Personalized plans that evolve with your skin

START YOUR MELASMA TREATMENT PLAN

Melasma takes time, but it doesn’t have to control you.

If you're ready for a personalized treatment roadmap, without the guesswork, book your consultation below. Let’s help you restore clarity, confidence, and control.

📍 Book Now: https://glowlabmed.janeapp.com
📧 Email Support: info@glowlabwellness.ca