Melasma Treatment in Ramsey, NJ

Effective Treatment for Hormone-Related Skin Discoloration in New Jersey
Melasma is a common skin condition that causes dark, irregular patches on the face and other areas. Often associated with hormonal changes from pregnancy, birth control, or hormone replacement therapy, melasma can be persistent and challenging to manage. At Skin & Laser Center of NJ, we provide safe, noninvasive treatments to help lighten hyperpigmented areas and restore a more even, radiant complexion.

What Causes Melasma?

Melasma develops when melanocytes—the cells responsible for skin pigmentation—produce excess melanin in certain areas. Contributing factors include:

  • Hormonal changes: Pregnancy, birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapy

  • Sun exposure: UV light stimulates melanocytes and worsens discoloration

  • Genetics: Family history of melasma can increase susceptibility

  • Certain medications or cosmetic products: Some may exacerbate hyperpigmentation

Although melasma is harmless and noncancerous, the cosmetic appearance can be distressing. Early consultation and treatment are important for controlling pigmentation and preventing worsening of discoloration.

When Treatment May Be Beneficial

Treatment is often recommended for patients who:

  • Have persistent brown or gray-brown patches on the face

  • Experience emotional or psychological distress due to discoloration

  • Notice worsening pigmentation after sun exposure or hormonal changes

  • Want to complement preventive strategies such as sun protection

While melasma can fade on its own, especially after pregnancy or discontinuation of hormone therapy, many patients choose treatment to accelerate results and improve confidence.

Melasma Treatment Options at Skin & Laser Center of NJ

Our dermatologists offer several approaches to treat melasma effectively:

  • Topical creams and serums: Prescription-strength formulas to reduce pigmentation and lighten dark patches

  • Chemical peels: Gentle exfoliation to remove pigmented skin layers and stimulate healthy skin turnover

  • Laser and light-based therapies: Target melanin to break up pigmentation and promote even skin tone

  • Combination therapies: Customized plans that include multiple modalities for optimal results

Treatments are tailored to each patient’s skin type, severity of discoloration, and lifestyle factors. With professional care, many patients see significant improvement in the appearance of melasma.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn More About Melasma

What Treatment Options Does Skin & Laser Center of NJ Offer for Melasma?

After a melasma diagnosis is made, your provider will work with you to develop a treatment plan to help address the signs and symptoms. The following treatment options are all available at Skin & Laser Center of NJ:

  • The most important treatment for melasma is sun protection or avoidance. This means wearing sunblock every day of the year and reapplying it every two hours, as well as wearing a wide-brimmed hat when you are outside. This is important not just in the summer, but in all the other seasons as well! Tinted sunscreens provide the best protection.
  • Hydroquinone cream, a topical lightening cream, should only be used for one month at a time.
  • Prescription topical tretinoin creams.
  • Topical azelaic acid or kojic acid preparations.
  • Superficial (light) chemical peels are extremely effective at mitigating the symptoms of melasma, as well as helping to prevent the accumulation of melanin in the skin. However, the discoloration may recur if exposed to sunlight.

Patients who experience skin irritation or more darkening of the skin after treatment should contact their dermatologist. You can also contact us about other pigmentation and vascular problems, such as broken blood vesselsbrown spotsport-wine stains, and more.

In the Neighborhood?

Walk-Ins Available!

Convenient walk in hours available below. No appointment needed! Accepting private insurance and medicare. No medicaid plans.

Achieve the Peace of Mind that Comes
with Healthy Skin in New Jersey

Learn more about medical treatments at New Jersey’s Skin & Laser Center of NJ. Call 201-500-7525 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.