Question 1

What causes melasma?

Accepted Answer

Melasma is a skin concern that shows up as dark, discolored patches, often appearing symmetrically on the cheeks, forehead, or upper lip. Hormonal fluctuations are one of the most common triggers, which is why melasma is frequently associated with pregnancy or the use of hormonal birth control. UV exposure is another major contributing factor, since sunlight stimulates the pigment-producing cells in the skin and can trigger or worsen existing patches. Genetics also plays a role, with some people more predisposed to developing melasma than others. Heat exposure, separate from UV light, has also been linked to triggering or worsening patches in some people. Certain skincare products that irritate the skin can aggravate the condition as well. Because melasma tends to appear in a fairly symmetrical pattern on both sides of the face, it's often distinguishable from other types of pigmentation, like isolated age spots or sun spots, which typically appear in a less uniform pattern.

Question 2

Which treatments help with melasma?

Accepted Answer

Bruce Wellness & Aesthetics offers two complementary approaches for melasma. The Alma Harmony Clearlift uses light-based technology to target excess pigment in the skin, helping to fade the appearance of dark patches over a series of treatments. The CBD+ Skin Brightening Serum is available as a topical product to use as part of an ongoing skincare routine, supporting a more even tone between and after in-office sessions. Because melasma is often triggered or worsened by hormonal changes and sun exposure, treatment is generally approached as an ongoing management plan rather than a single fix, combining in-office treatment with consistent sun protection and appropriate skincare. The provider evaluates each patient's specific pattern of pigmentation and likely triggers during a consultation to build a plan suited to their skin.

Question 3

How many sessions will I need, and how soon will I see results?

Accepted Answer

Results timelines for melasma vary depending on what's driving the pigmentation. Melasma that's triggered primarily by hormonal factors, such as pregnancy or birth control, may fade on its own to some degree once those hormonal levels change, though many patients still pursue treatment to speed and support that fading. For melasma treated with the Alma Harmony Clearlift, most patients need a series of sessions rather than one visit, since the pigment fades gradually as the light-based treatment is repeated over time. It's important to know upfront that melasma is difficult to remove permanently, and ongoing maintenance treatment is often needed to keep patches from returning, especially with continued sun or heat exposure. The CBD+ Skin Brightening Serum can help support results as part of a daily routine between in-office visits. The provider discusses a realistic timeline and maintenance plan based on the pattern and likely cause of each patient's melasma.

Question 4

Is there any downtime?

Accepted Answer

The Alma Harmony Clearlift treatment for melasma is generally low-downtime, with most patients returning to their normal activities the same day. Some temporary redness or mild warmth in the treated area is common right after a session and typically resolves within a short period. Because melasma is especially sensitive to UV and heat exposure, diligent sun protection following treatment is particularly important, more so than with some other pigmentation concerns, since unprotected sun exposure can trigger patches to return or worsen. The CBD+ Skin Brightening Serum has no downtime at all, since it's used as part of a regular skincare routine. The provider will go over specific sun-protection guidance following in-office treatment given how sensitive melasma is to triggers like heat and UV light.

Question 5

Am I a good candidate for melasma treatment?

Accepted Answer

Good candidates are patients bothered by dark, symmetrical patches on the cheeks, forehead, or upper lip who understand that melasma is a manageable rather than permanently curable concern. Patients whose melasma appears to be linked to pregnancy or hormonal birth control may see some natural fading once those hormone levels shift, but many still benefit from treatment and ongoing skincare to speed that process along. Because sun and heat exposure are known triggers, candidates who are willing to commit to consistent sun protection, including daily sunscreen, tend to see the best and most lasting results. It's also worth confirming during a consultation that the pigmentation pattern is consistent with melasma rather than another form of pigmentation, like isolated age spots, since the symmetrical, hormonally-linked pattern of melasma is a helpful distinguishing feature the provider will look for.

Melasma

What Is Melasma?

What Are the Causes of Melasma?

Treatments & Recommendations

Alma Harmony Clearlift

CBD+ Skin Brightening Serum

Frequently Asked Questions

Can melasma go away on its own?

What are the best treatments for melasma?

Does sun exposure make melasma worse?

Is melasma the same as age spots?

Can melasma be permanently removed?

Opening Hours