Melasma Waco, TX

Melasma is a chronic facial pigmentation condition that causes dark, uneven patches, often triggered by sun exposure, hormones, or genetics. With physician-guided care and consistent management, its appearance can be visibly improved over time.

What Is Melasma?

Melasma is an acquired pigmentation disorder that causes brown or gray-brown patches on the face, most commonly affecting the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and chin. It occurs when pigment-producing cells become overstimulated, leading to excess melanin deposition at varying skin depths. Because melasma behaves differently from surface discoloration, accurate diagnosis and depth-based treatment selection are essential.

Benefits of Treating Melasma

More even-looking skin tone: Softens visible dark patches and discoloration.
Improved skin uniformity: Creates a smoother, more consistent complexion.
Better response to skincare and makeup: Allows products to apply more evenly and predictably.

Improved long-term control: Reduces the frequency and severity of flare-ups with proper maintenance.
Increased daily confidence: Helps patients feel more comfortable without heavy coverage.

Am I a Good Candidate for Melasma Treatment?

You may be a good candidate if you experience persistent facial discoloration that worsens with sun exposure or hormonal changes. Patients who benefit most understand that improvement is a gradual process and that ongoing sun protection is crucial. During your consultation, we evaluate skin type, pigmentation pattern, medical history, and prior treatments to determine suitability.

Why Choose Us for Melasma?

Melasma management requires clinical judgment rather than aggressive intervention. At Facial Plastic Surgery of Central Texas, treatment strategies are informed by a depth-based understanding of facial pigmentation and guided by established clinical standards set by Dr. Guy. This allows for careful selection of topicals, peels, and energy-based devices while minimizing the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Careful oversight and conservative protocols support safer outcomes and more durable improvement.

Your Consultation

Your consultation focuses on identifying the specific drivers of your melasma. We assess pigment depth, distribution, sun exposure habits, hormonal influences, and prior treatment response. Common misconceptions, such as the expectation of permanent elimination or rapid clearance, are addressed early. This ensures your treatment plan is realistic, informed, and medically appropriate.

Supporting Therapies for Melasma

Medical-grade skincare: Supports pigment regulation, barrier repair, and long-term skin balance.
Chemical peels: Improve tone and texture using formulations appropriate for pigmentation-prone skin.
Laser and light-based therapies: Address discoloration using settings chosen to reduce pigment disruption.

The Melasma Treatment Process

Treatment may include prescription topical therapy, chemical peels, or carefully selected laser or light-based procedures. Exact pricing is reviewed during your consultation once your plan is defined. Progress occurs gradually, as melasma responds best to controlled, incremental care rather than aggressive correction.

What Happens After Treatment

Recovery depends on the treatments performed and may involve temporary redness, dryness, or light flaking. Improvement develops steadily over weeks to months rather than immediately. Long-term results depend on maintenance strategies, including consistent sun protection and adherence to the recommended skincare plan.

FAQ

Can melasma fade without treatment?

Some cases improve when triggers such as hormones or sun exposure are reduced, though many patients benefit from medical treatment.

What causes melasma to worsen?

Sun exposure, heat, hormonal changes, and skin irritation are common contributors to flare-ups.

Are lasers always appropriate for melasma?

No. Laser treatment must be selected carefully, as improper use can worsen pigmentation.

How soon will I notice changes?

Most patients see gradual improvement over several weeks to months rather than immediate results.

Will melasma always return?

Recurrence is common, even with appropriate treatment, which is why ongoing maintenance and sun protection are essential.

Take the Next Step Toward Clearer Skin

Managing melasma requires expertise, patience, and a personalized plan. Dr. Guy and our team are committed to thoughtful, medically guided care that prioritizes your skin’s long-term health. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward a clearer, more even complexion.