Skin conditions
Pigmentation & Melasma Treatment in Salem
Dark patches and uneven skin tone are among the most common reasons people visit a dermatologist. The right treatment depends on what is causing the pigmentation, so an accurate diagnosis comes first.
Types of pigmentation we treat
- Melasma. Brown or grey-brown patches on the cheeks, forehead, nose or upper lip, often linked to sun, heat, pregnancy or hormonal medicines.
- Dark marks after acne, injury or rashes (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation).
- Sun spots, freckles and tanning.
- Dark circles under the eyes.
- Dark, velvety skin on the neck, underarms or knuckles (acanthosis nigricans), which can be linked to insulin resistance, weight or PCOS.
- Pigmentation around the mouth and lips.
- Pigmentation from cosmetics, hair dye or medicines.
White patches are a different problem; see clinical dermatology for vitiligo and other causes.
How pigmentation is treated
Most people do best with a combination of treatments, adjusted as the skin improves.
Sun protection
The foundation of every pigmentation plan. Without it, other treatments work poorly and results do not last.
Prescription creams
Ingredients such as azelaic acid, kojic acid, retinoids, niacinamide and, for short supervised courses, hydroquinone combinations. These are chosen for your skin type and used under follow-up.
Oral medicines
For selected people with melasma, tablets such as tranexamic acid may be added after a health check.
Chemical peels
Glycolic, lactic, mandelic, salicylic and combination peels lift away pigmented surface cells. Read more about chemical peels.
HydraFacial and medi-facials
Gentle cleansing and hydrating treatments that brighten the skin and support the main treatment plan.
Melasma needs patience
Melasma is a long-term condition. Treatment can lighten it considerably, but sun, heat and hormones can bring it back. A realistic aim is good control, with a simple maintenance routine once your skin has cleared.
Why choose Skintillate
Pigmentation treatment in Indian skin needs care, because over-treatment can make it darker. Your plan is made by Dr. Kiruthika, a dermatologist trained at PGIMER, Chandigarh, who adjusts every cream and peel to your skin.
Frequently asked questions
Can melasma be cured permanently?
Melasma can be lightened significantly, but it is a long-term condition that can return with sun exposure, heat or hormonal changes. Daily sun protection and a maintenance routine help keep it under control after treatment.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the type and depth of pigmentation. Peel sessions are usually spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart, and most people need a course of several sessions. Dr. Kiruthika will give you an estimate after examining your skin.
Can I use fairness creams?
Avoid unprescribed fairness or “skin-whitening” creams. Many contain strong steroids or mercury that can damage the skin and worsen pigmentation over time. Use only the creams your dermatologist prescribes.
Which sunscreen should I use?
A broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or more, applied generously every morning and reapplied every 2 to 3 hours outdoors. Tinted sunscreens also protect against visible light, which matters in melasma. Dr. Kiruthika can recommend one that suits your skin.