Melasma is a chronic pigmentation pattern driven by a combination of hormones, sun exposure, and inflammation. It typically presents as patches of brown, gray-brown, or blue-gray discoloration on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and jawline. The pattern is more common in patients with Fitzpatrick III through V skin tones and is frequently triggered or worsened by pregnancy, oral contraceptives, perimenopause, sun exposure, or heat.
DermClick prescribes three formulas for melasma and dark spots, each calibrated for a different stage and approach:
- The Dark Spot Solution ($79/month, Core) — a non-hydroquinone brightening formula for mild to moderate melasma, sun spots, and hormonal pigmentation. Designed for full-face use and longer-term continuous treatment.
- The Brightening Solution ($79/month) — a maximum-strength formula that includes hydroquinone for stronger pigment control. For stubborn, deep, or treatment-resistant melasma.
- The Precision Dark Spot Corrector ($79/month, Targeted) — hydroquinone-based, designed for spot application on defined patches rather than full-face use.
Honest baseline: melasma is managed, not cured. Sun protection — broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher with iron oxides for visible-light protection, applied daily — is the single most important variable in long-term control. Treatment without sun protection is treatment that won't hold.