Effective melasma treatment: How to achieve an even skin tone

Published: January 2015

Last Reviewed: March 2025

Melasma is a common skin condition that causes dark patches, usually on the face, leading to an uneven skin tone. It’s often called “the mask of pregnancy” or “chloasma” as it frequently appears during pregnancy due to hormonal changes. However, it can also be triggered by sun exposure, genetics, blue light, or birth control pills.

While melasma is harmless, it can be persistent. This article explores its causes, types, and effective treatments using dermatological skincare solutions. Learn how the Eucerin Anti-Pigment range can help reduce melasma and achieve a more even, radiant complexion.

Melasma is a common skin condition that appears as large, dark, discoloured patches on the skin, usually on the face. It is a form of hyperpigmentation that is more common in women, particularly those with darker skin tones. It can also appear as flat patches or freckle-like spots. Some people refer to it as a black spot or dark spot.

 Some of the most commonly affected areas include:

• The face, especially the cheeks
• The bridge of the nose
• The forehead
• The upper lip
• Other sun-exposed areas, such as the forearms or neck (though this is less common)
  
   

Melasma and age spots are harmless and will not develop into skin cancer. Melanoma (a type of skin cancer) can be life-threatening. If you have any concerns about your pigment spots – if they change shape, size and colour or become itchy and start to bleed – it’s essential to consult your doctor.

Melasma is also commonly known as chloasma or the "mask of pregnancy." This type of melasma occurs due to pregnancy-related hormonal changes, particularly increased levels of oestrogen, progesterone, and melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH). These hormonal shifts make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, leading to dark, discoloured patches.

It is very common for pregnant women to develop melasma. In fact, between 10–15%* of pregnant women experience chloasma.

*The International Dermal Institute, Melasma Unmasked by Dr Claudia Aguirre quoting Kang, H. Y., & Ortonne, J. P. (2010). What should be considered in the treatment of melasma? Annals of Dermatology, 22(4), 373–378. 

Melasma is a common skin condition that can affect many people between the ages of 20 and 40, especially women and those with darker skin tones or who tan easily. It typically becomes more visible during summer and improves during winter. Chloasma is particularly common during pregnancy, with up to 50% of women experiencing it.

While melasma is more common in people with a family history of the condition, it is not considered hereditary.

Several factors are associated with melasma, including hormonal changes during pregnancy (chloasma), the use of birth control pills, and sensitivity to oestrogen and progesterone. Other contributing factors include sun exposure, stress, thyroid disease, skin type, ethnicity, and genetics.

Find out the most common causes of melasma below: 

Sun exposure causes melasma because UV rays (ultraviolet radiation) trigger the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. When the skin is exposed to sunlight, melanocytes (the cells responsible for producing melanin) are activated to protect the skin from UV damage by increasing melanin production. 

This process becomes overactive in people with melasma, developing dark, discoloured patches on the skin, particularly on the face, as it receives the most sun exposure daily. UV radiation, including both UVA and UVB rays, contributes to this excess melanin production, and even brief sun exposure can worsen existing melasma, making sun protection essential for managing the condition. 

Sun beds and phototherapy can also intensify UV exposure, making melasma worse. While sun exposure and artificial light can trigger melasma, broad-spectrum sunscreens, and protective clothing can help reduce the impact and prevent further skin darkening. Regularly monitoring and using skincare products that help manage pigmentation can also help control melasma.

Between 10 – 25* of women taking oral contraceptives experience melasma. Women who take birth control pills undergo similar kinds of hormonal changes as those that occur during pregnancy. Unlike age spots, melasma may fade after pregnancy or if oestrogen intake is reduced.

*The International Dermal Institute, Melasma Unmasked by Dr Claudia Aguirre quoting Kang, H. Y., & Ortonne, J. P. (2010). What should be considered in the treatment of melasma? Annals of Dermatology, 22(4), 373-378

Hormonal changes, such as pregnancy, menopause, or perimenopause, can cause melasma by significantly increasing the production of melanin, the pigment responsible for skin colour. This is mainly due to how hormones like oestrogen, progesterone, and melanocyte-stimulating hormone (MSH) interact with the skin’s pigment-producing cells, known as melanocytes. These hormones can stimulate melanocytes to produce excessive melanin, forming dark, discoloured patches on the skin.

Melasma may also be triggered by excessive blue light exposure from LED screens, such as those on TVs, laptops, smartphones, or tablets. Blue light can penetrate the skin and stimulate melanin production, especially in individuals prone to pigmentation problems. However, it is not as widely recognised as UV radiation as a contributor to skin pigmentation issues. 

Therefore, it’s important to use screen filters, wear blue light-blocking glasses, and apply sunscreen that protects against visible light. Learn more about blue light and the importance of daily sun protection even if you’re inside.

Genetics can affect melanin production, hormonal sensitivity, and skin inflammation, causing melasma. Studies suggest that 30–50% of people with melasma have a family history of the condition.

There are three types of melasma classified based on the depth of pigmentation in the skin:

The top layer of the skin (epidermis) is where epidermal melasma occurs. Epidermal melasma appears as brown patches with well-defined borders. This type is more straightforward to treat with topical treatments, chemical peels, laser therapy, light therapy, and a proper skincare routine. 

Affecting the deeper layers of the skin, dermal melasma is characterised by blue-grey patches, typically on the face. It’s also more difficult to treat than the other types. Wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 is essential to prevent further darkening. Treatment options, such as laser therapy, microneedling, chemical peels, and a proper skincare routine, can help address dermal melasma.

Mixed melasma is a combination of epidermal and dermal components, presenting as a mix of brown patches (epidermal) and blue-grey patches (dermal). It is often found on the face, particularly on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. Maintaining a good skincare routine, along with laser treatment, micro-needling, exfoliation, and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, can help treat mixed melasma.

You can read more about what causes hyperpigmentation in general and find out more about the different types of conditions that cause it.

While melasma has no cure, several effective treatments can significantly improve its appearance. In many cases, chloasma naturally fades a few months after childbirth, though it may return during future pregnancies. The most effective approach for managing melasma involves a combination of treatments, including broad-spectrum sun protection, a skincare routine with anti-pigment-targeted ingredients, regular exfoliation, and dermatological treatments. 

Consistent, year-round sun protection is key to preventing or reducing its severity. Limiting sun exposure, avoiding peak sun hours, and wearing protective clothing and hats can help protect your skin. This is particularly important if you have a family history of melasma or are pregnant, on the pill, or taking hormone supplements. Discontinuing hormonal contraception, if possible, may also improve your skin's condition.

Sun protection is not just for sunbathers; it is the most important step in your daily skincare routine, especially if you have melasma or are trying to prevent its development. The sun’s UV radiation, including both UVA and UVB rays, contributes to excess melanin production (the pigment responsible for skin colour), leading to the development of dark, discoloured patches on the skin.

The sun’s rays can affect your skin even on cloudy days, so providing your skin with daily protection is essential. Eucerin Anti-Pigment Day Cream SPF 30 and Anti-Pigment Day SPF 30 Tinted Light not only reduce hyperpigmentation but also offer effective UVA and UVB protection (SPF 30), preventing the formation of additional sun-induced pigment spots with targeted ingredients like Thiamidol and Licochalcone A.

Thiamidol is a powerful active ingredient known for its ability to reduce hyperpigmentation and even out skin tone. In Eucerin's Anti-Pigment products, Thiamidol targets the overproduction of melanin, gradually lightening existing dark spots and preventing new ones from forming. The result is a more even, radiant complexion. When combined with broad-spectrum sun protection, Thiamidol helps prevent further darkening caused by UV exposure, making it an effective ingredient for managing melasma over time.

Before spending time in the sun, choose a high factor sun protection product formulated for your skin type. Ensure you reapply it regularly. 

If you’re looking for a specific sunscreen for hyperpigmentation, Eucerin Sun Pigment Control Tinted Light SPF50+ is a high-protection facial sunscreen designed to prevent and reduce hyperpigmentation, including melasma and sun spots. It features broadband UVA/UVB filters and Licochalcone A to shield the skin from UV rays and high-energy visible (HEVIS) light, preventing oxidative stress.

Discover which SPF is right for you with our helpful guide.

In addition to sun protection, using serums with active ingredients to address hyperpigmentation in your routine is crucial for reducing the appearance of melasma and preventing future pigmentation.

Eucerin Anti-Pigment Dual Serum and Anti-Pigment Skin Illuminating Serum are both designed to reduce the appearance of melasma by targeting hyperpigmentation and promoting a more even skin tone.

The Eucerin Anti-Pigment Dual Serum combines two powerful ingredients in a dual-phase formula. Thiamidol, known for effectively reducing the appearance of dark spots and preventing new ones from forming by inhibiting melanin production, is paired with Hyaluronic Acid, which hydrates and plumps the skin, improving texture and overall appearance. 

This serum is ideal for those seeking hydration while tackling pigmentation and improving skin texture. A study has proven that within 12 weeks of using Eucerin Anti-Pigment Dual Serum, hyperpigmentation was reduced by up to 75%. 

*Clinical study with 34 women, 12 weeks of regular use twice a day. Four applications of products containing Thiamidol per day. Individual results may vary.

Eucerin Anti-Pigment Skin Illuminating Serum is formulated with a high concentration of Thiamidol and Licorice Extract. Thiamidol reduces melanin production, gradually lightening dark spots caused by melasma, while Licorice Extract inhibits melanin synthesis and reduces discolouration, helping to brighten the skin. 

This serum is best for those looking for a straightforward solution to reduce pigmentation, brighten the skin, and achieve a more radiant complexion.

Both serums are effective for treating melasma, but your choice depends on your preference for texture and additional skincare benefits like hydration.

Exfoliating regularly is essential if you have melasma, as it removes dead skin cells and promotes cell turnover. Exfoliating 1–3 times a week can help fade dark spots, encourage skin renewal, and smooth the skin’s surface for a brighter, more even tone, making melasma less noticeable. For best results, use gentle exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs and always follow with sun protection to prevent further pigmentation.

Suitable for all skin types and tones, the Eucerin Anti-Pigment Cleansing Gel effectively cleanses skin, removing dirt, oil, and other impurities that can contribute to pigmentation. A 2% AHA Complex enhances radiance and helps reduce dark spots, showing visible results in 1 week*, with 98% confirming spot reduction success**. Paired with Glyceryl Glycose, it maintains the skin's moisture balance, leaving it soft and smooth.

*Clinical study over 4 weeks with 64 volunteers using Anti-Pigment Cleansing Gel and Dual Serum
** Product-in-use test with 120 volunteers using Anti-Pigment Cleansing Gel and Dual Serum. Agreement after one week.

Dermatological treatments such as chemical peels and laser therapy can help to reduce melasma. Epidermal melasma is the easiest type to reduce but, due to the depth of the melanin pigments in dermal and mixed melasma, these types can be harder to treat. 

• Chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution (such as an AHA) to exfoliate skin (remove dead skin cells), stimulate the growth of new skin cells and reveal new skin. 
• Laser therapy has a similar effect but tends to be more precise as the dermatologist has more control over the intensity of the treatment. Laser treatments involve ‘zapping’ the affected areas with high-energy light. The mildest treatments work on the skin’s epidermis (surface layer), while more intense treatments can penetrate the deepest layers of the skin. Learn more about Laser therapy: how should I care for my skin after treatment?

Dermatologists may also prescribe and/or use hydroquinone which is still regarded as the most effective topical agent for reducing hyperpigmentation. Hydroquinone is available as a lotion, cream, or gel, and is applied directly to the discoloured patches of skin. However, it can only be used for limited periods of time because, like other forms of chemical peel and laser treatment, it can irritate skin and actually cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially in people with darker skin.

Dermo-cosmetic skincare products can be used daily to help prolong the results of dermatological treatments. Anti-pigment skincare products support melasma treatment by targeting hyperpigmentation, improving skin texture, and preventing further darkening.

Eucerin’s Anti-Pigment range contains Thiamidol, a powerful active ingredient that addresses the root cause of hyperpigmentation by reducing the appearance of dark spots. All products have been clinically and dermatologically proven to reduce the appearance of dark spots and help prevent their recurrence. Visible results can be seen after two weeks, with continuous improvement over time with regular use.

You can choose the right product based on your needs:

• Eucerin Anti-Pigment Spot Corrector: Ideal for targeting stubborn melasma patches, as its concentrated formula works on specific areas of hyperpigmentation.
• Eucerin Anti-Pigment Dark Circle Eye Corrector: Designed to reduce dark circles by addressing hyperpigmentation around the eyes, promoting radiance and a smoother appearance.
• Eucerin Anti-Pigment Targeted Areas Body Cream: Formulated for the body, it targets hyperpigmentation on areas like the arms, hands, décolletage, knees, and elbows. Thiamidol helps reduce dark spots, sun spots, and uneven skin tone, while Lactic Acid and Dexpanthenol gently exfoliate and hydrate the skin.
• Eucerin Anti-Pigment Night Cream: This regenerating night cream contains Thiamidol to reduce melanin production, effectively reducing dark spots and preventing their reappearance. Enriched with Dexpanthenol, it supports skin regeneration overnight, leading to even, radiant skin.