Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by patchy areas of darkened pigmentation, typically appearing as brown or grey-brown patches on the face and skin. It most often affects the cheeks, forehead, nose, upper lip, and chin, but can also develop on other sun-exposed areas such as the neck and arms.
Melasma is more frequently seen in women and is especially common during pregnancy. While it can affect all skin types, it is more commonly seen in individuals with darker skin tones.
At Skinnova Medical & Aesthetics Clinic in Hamilton, Ontario, our physician-led team provides personalized, evidence-based melasma care to help reduce pigmentation and improve overall skin tone. No referral is needed to book a consultation.
Melasma occurs when the skin produces excess melanin — the pigment responsible for skin colour. Several factors can contribute to this overproduction, including:
Because UV exposure plays a significant role, melasma often becomes more noticeable with sun exposure and may worsen over time without proper protection.
Hamilton patients with a history of significant sun exposure or hormonal changes are among those most commonly affected.
While there is no permanent cure for melasma, there are several effective treatments available to reduce pigmentation and improve skin clarity. At our Hamilton clinic, our physicians will assess your skin and develop a customized, evidence-based treatment plan based on the depth and severity of your pigmentation.
Sun Protection Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen is essential for managing melasma and preventing worsening. Additional protective measures — such as wearing hats and avoiding peak sun hours — are strongly recommended for all Hamilton patients undergoing melasma treatment.
Prescription Topical Creams Prescription creams may be used to lighten pigmentation and regulate skin cell turnover. These can include retinoids, pigment-reducing agents, and other physician-prescribed formulations tailored to your skin type.
Chemical Peels Superficial chemical peels can help exfoliate the skin and gradually improve uneven pigmentation. Our Hamilton clinic offers medical-grade peels performed or supervised by our licensed physicians.
Oral Medications In select cases, short courses of oral medications may be used to support treatment and improve outcomes. Your Skinnova physician will advise whether this is appropriate for your situation.
Laser & Light-Based Treatments For more persistent melasma, laser or light-based treatments may be considered. Our experienced team is highly trained to select the correct settings for each patient — as certain energy-based treatments can worsen pigmentation if not used appropriately. This level of medical oversight is a key reason Hamilton patients choose Skinnova for melasma care.
A combination of treatments is often the most effective approach, and our Hamilton team will guide you through the safest and most appropriate options for your skin.
More details to come
A consultation with one of Skinnova’s Hamilton physicians is the first step. No GP referral is required.
Melasma is a chronic condition and cannot be permanently cured. However, with the right treatment plan, it can be effectively managed and significantly improved. Many Hamilton patients at Skinnova see meaningful reduction in pigmentation with consistent, physician-guided care.
Sun exposure is one of the primary triggers of melasma.
Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen use is essential — not just to prevent worsening, but to protect and maintain the results of any treatment you receive at our Hamilton clinic.
Improvement is gradual and may take several weeks to months depending on your treatment plan, skin type, and the severity of your melasma. Your Skinnova physician will set realistic expectations at your consultation and monitor your progress over time.
Cosmetic melasma treatments are not covered by OHIP. However, if there is a medical component to your care, your physician will advise accordingly. Skinnova provides detailed receipts that may be submitted to private insurance plans or health spending accounts.
Skinnova offers physician-supervised melasma treatment at our clinic located at 800 Queenston Rd in Stoney Creek, Hamilton, ON. Call us at (905) 549-1025 or book online. No referral required.
