Pregnancy and other life changes often bring shifts in hormones, and those shifts can also affect the way your skin looks and feels. One of the more noticeable conditions that develops from hormone fluctuations is melasma, a type of pigmentation that appears as uneven patches across the face. Sun exposure in a place like Arizona can make the discoloration appear darker, which is why careful treatment is needed. At Lazaderm in Chandler, AZ, we offer options that can help you work toward clearer, healthier skin.
What Is Melasma?
Melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation that develops when your body produces excess melanin in certain areas of the skin. It looks like flat patches of brown or gray discoloration, most commonly on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and chin. Hormones play a central role, which is why it often begins during pregnancy or after starting birth control. Sun exposure intensifies the condition by stimulating pigment cells, and Arizona’s strong sunlight is a major factor in its development. While freckles fade in the cooler months, melasma tends to persist and requires targeted care to reduce its appearance.
Melasma vs. Dark Spots: What Is the Difference?
While both melasma and dark spots create patches of discoloration, the two conditions behave differently. Dark spots, often called sun spots or age spots, usually form in isolated areas after years of ultraviolet exposure. Melasma develops in larger symmetrical patterns across the face. Sun spots tend to respond more quickly to treatment because they affect fewer pigment cells, while melasma requires a more careful, ongoing approach.
How to Prevent Melasma
Melasma can’t always be prevented because of genetic factors. However, you may be able to keep melasma from getting worse. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen generously, wear wide-brimmed hats, and seek shade during peak sunlight hours to lower the risk of flare-ups. Pay attention to heat since warmth alone can stimulate pigment cells. Build a consistent melasma skincare routine with gentle products that avoid irritation, since inflammation can worsen discoloration.
Our Treatment Options for Melasma
MOXI Laser Treatments
MOXI is a gentle fractional laser that targets pigment just beneath the surface of your skin. It stimulates cell renewal, which helps fade discoloration while keeping the surrounding skin intact. Because the treatment is less aggressive than some other lasers, it works well for maintaining clearer skin with minimal downtime.
Erbium Laser Resurfacing
Erbium laser resurfacing removes very thin layers of damaged skin to reveal fresh, healthier skin underneath. By carefully vaporizing targeted tissue, it encourages the growth of new skin cells that carry less pigment. We offer this type of hyperpigmentation treatment to address irregular pigmentation and promote a smoother tone. Proper aftercare is important because the treated skin remains sensitive while it heals.
BBL® HERO™
BroadBand Light (BBL HERO) delivers pulses of light energy that target pigmented cells. The heat from the light breaks down excess melanin, which your body clears naturally. BBL HERO is versatile because it can also address redness, sun damage, and early signs of aging while focusing on melasma. Treatments are quick, and you may notice gradual improvements in brightness and tone after each session.
Chemical Peels
Chemical peels can remove the discolored skin cells that cause melasma and other types of hyperpigmentation. We can use lighter peels or deeper peels depending on your skin type and the severity of your skin concerns. For melasma, we may recommend gentle to medium-strength peels to avoid irritation.
Hydrafacial®
Hydrafacial is a medical facial that can treat melasma by clearing away dead skin cells and infusing brightening serums. It helps improve uneven tone and supports healthier skin function. While not as aggressive as lasers or peels, Hydrafacial works well as a maintenance option for skin hyperpigmentation. It refreshes the skin, keeps pores clear, and enhances the results of other treatments.
Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion offers a simple and approachable option for those looking for non-invasive melasma treatments in Arizona. We use a diamond-tipped device to gently exfoliate the outermost layer of your skin. Removing dull surface cells can help lighten pigmentation and promote a smoother texture. Although it works best for mild melasma, it can also enhance the effects of other treatments by allowing active ingredients to penetrate more effectively. Regular sessions provide a gradual improvement in tone, especially when combined with sun protection and topical therapies.
RF Microneedling
Radiofrequency microneedling combines the benefits of tiny controlled microchannels with heat energy. The needles create channels that stimulate skin repair, while the radiofrequency energy encourages collagen production and breaks down uneven pigment. We usually recommend multiple sessions for longer-lasting improvements.
What to Expect From Our Melasma Treatments
A step-by-step approach rather than a single session: Melasma often responds best to a series of treatments, since pigment cells tend to be reactive. By spacing sessions appropriately, we allow your skin to recover and gradually improve while reducing the risk of irritation.
Mild redness or sensitivity after treatment: Your skin may look flushed or feel tender for a short time, depending on the method used. These effects usually resolve quickly, and we provide detailed aftercare guidance to support healing and protect results.
Long-term management for lasting results: Because sunlight and hormones can trigger pigment activity, ongoing care is important. Using daily sun protection and following a professional skincare plan can make our hyperpigmentation treatments in Chandler, AZ, more effective.
Get a Consultation For Melasma Treatments in Chandler, AZ
Melasma requires careful management because hormones, sunlight, and heat can all trigger pigment activity. At Lazaderm, we use several methods to help patients in Chandler, AZ, reduce discoloration and maintain healthier skin. To learn more about your options for melasma, call (480) 573-7546 or contact us online.