Melasma VS Hyperpigmentation: Spotting The Difference

When in school, you learned that reptiles and mammals are types of animals, but not every animal is a reptile or mammal. Why are we discussing animals here?

This is the best way to describe melasma and hyperpigmentation. In this case, melasma is hyperpigmentation, but all hyperpigmentation is not melasma.

Most of us often confuse hyperpigmentation and melasma. These two skin conditions are related to each other, yet so different. This blog will help you spot the difference between melasma vs hyperpigmentation so you can get the right treatment.

Are Melasma And Hyperpigmentation The Same?

There are different types of hyperpigmentation such as sun spots, freckles, acne scars, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), age spots, and melasma is one of them.

Hyperpigmentation is a broader term that describes dark patches of skin. Melasma is a more specific type of hyperpigmentation and is different from other types of hyperpigmentation.

What Is Hyperpigmentation?

Before knowing the difference between hyperpigmentation vs melasma, it is important to understand these skin conditions. Hyperpigmentation is a skin condition that causes dark patches on the skin.

In this condition, some areas of the skin become darker than the usual skin color. This darkening is caused by an increase in melanin.

When talking about symptoms of hyperpigmentation, it only causes dark spots or discoloration of the skin. The patches caused by hyperpigmentation are usually

• Brown
• Red
• Pink
• Gray
• Black 

Depending on your skin color. If you experience any other symptoms, such as itching or pain, then it is best to consult the doctor. There are chances you may be experiencing any other skin condition or health issue.

Hyperpigmentation affects people with darker skin color more–people of African descent, Hispanics, Asians, people from the Middle East, and Native Americans.

What Causes Hyperpigmentation?

As we have discussed before, hyperpigmentation is caused due to overproduction of melanin in the skin. Melanocytes are the cells responsible for the pigment in the skin.

When these melanocytes are stimulated, they start producing excess melanin or pigmentation. This excess melanin, when it reaches the lower levels of skin, causes discoloration and dark skin spots.

But what causes this stimulation of cells? Some of the most common reasons are:

Sun damage

This is the most common cause of hyperpigmentation. The UV rays of the sun can damage the skin, leading to discoloration of skin. This is also known as sunspots.

Post Inflammatory hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is caused by any inflammatory skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, acne, or even an insect bite. Inflammation can break the cells, which leads to leakage of pigmentation on the skin.

Hormonal changes

Hormonal changes are the reason why women are more at risk of developing hyperpigmentation. Hormonal changes in the body caused by pregnancy, menopause, and the use of oral contraceptives can lead to dark skin spots.

Medications

There are certain medications, like anticancer drugs, that trigger the skin cells to start producing more melanin and lead to hyperpigmentation.

What Is Melasma?

Melasma is a common skin pigmentation disorder and a form of hyperpigmentation. It appears as dark brown or grayish patches that develop on areas of the skin exposed to sunlight. These patches are usually symmetrical and may vary in size and intensity.

Melasma most often affects the face, earning it the nickname “the mask of pregnancy” because it frequently occurs in women during or after pregnancy. The condition typically appears on the:

• Cheeks
• Forehead
• Nose
• Chin
• Upper lip

While melasma is harmless, it can cause cosmetic concern and affect self-confidence. Sun exposure, hormonal changes, and genetic factors are considered the main triggers.

Melasma Causes

Melasma is also caused due to excess melanin in the skin or epidermis. Some of the common reasons that trigger melanocytes to produce more melanin are:

• Genetics
• Hormonal changes
• Sun exposure
• Thyroid disease
• Medications
• Infrared radiation
• Pregnancy 
• Skincare products 

Sometimes melasma appears during pregnancy and disappears once the baby is born but in some cases, it lingers.

Difference Between Melasma vs Hyperpigmentation

Treatment

While melasma and hyperpigmentation may require different treatment approaches, several general steps can help prevent the condition from worsening and protect your skin:

1. Limit Sun Exposure:
   Protect your skin from UV rays by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every day, even indoors. Reapply every two hours when outdoors, and wear hats or clothing that cover your face and body.
2. Avoid Self-Treatment:
   Over-the-counter creams or home remedies may worsen melasma or irritate sensitive skin. Always consult a dermatologist before starting any new treatment.
3. Moisturize Daily:
   Keep your skin hydrated using a hypoallergenic moisturizer that is fragrance-free, paraben-free, and sulfate-free. This helps maintain a healthy skin barrier and reduces irritation.
4. Choose the Right Sunscreen:
   Use a dermatologist-recommended sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for maximum protection.
5. Review Medications:
   Certain medicines—such as oral contraceptives or hormone therapies—may contribute to melasma. Consult your physician before stopping or changing any medication.

Hyperpigmentation Treatment

If you’re wondering how to get rid of hyperpigmentation, the first and most important step is to consult a dermatologist. They can identify the type of hyperpigmentation you’re experiencing—such as sunspots, post-inflammatory marks, or melasma—and recommend the most effective treatment plan.

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Creams

Dermatologists often prescribe or recommend topical OTC  creams that contain brightening and exfoliating ingredients such as:

• Kojic acid – reduces melanin production
• Vitamin C – a natural antioxidant that lightens dark spots
• Corticosteroids – calm inflammation
• Glycolic acid – promotes exfoliation and cell turnover
• Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) – evens out skin tone
• Salicylic acid – removes dead skin cells and unclogs pores
• Hydroquinone – blocks pigment formation (use under supervision)
• Licorice root extract – soothes irritation and brightens skin
  

Medical Procedures

If topical creams aren’t enough, dermatologists may suggest professional treatments to fade stubborn dark patches, including:

• Chemical peels – exfoliate the skin and reduce discoloration
• Pigmented-lesion laser therapy – targets deep pigment
• Cryotherapy – freezes and removes darkened skin cells
  

Melasma Treatment

In some cases, melasma can fade on its own, especially after pregnancy or stopping hormonal triggers, but most people benefit from targeted treatment.

Avoid Triggers

The first step is to avoid anything that worsens melasma, such as:

• Excess sun exposure
• Hormonal medications (like contraceptive pills)
• Skincare products with harsh chemicals
  

Topical Medications and Creams

Your dermatologist may prescribe creams containing:

• Cysteamine
• Methimazole
• Azelaic acid
• Hydroquinone
• Tretinoin
  

Other active ingredients known to lighten dark patches include:

• Arbutin
• Glutathione
• Licorice extract
• Mequinol
• Vitamin C
  

Professional Treatments

For deeper or resistant pigmentation, dermatologists may recommend:

• Chemical peels – exfoliate and resurface uneven tone
• Laser therapy – selectively targets dark pigment
• Microneedling – stimulates skin renewal and product absorption
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) – promotes healing and reduces pigmentation

Key Takeaways

• There are different types of hyperpigmentation, and melasma is one of them. 
• Melasma appears as symmetrical patches, while hyperpigmentation can appear in spots, streaks, and patches. 
• Hyperpigmentation is triggered by sun exposure, inflammation, medications, and genetics, while melasma is usually caused due to hormonal changes. 
• If you are unsure whether you are experiencing melasma or hyperpigmentation it is best to consult a doctor. 

If you are experiencing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by eczema. It is important to take proper care of your skin. An eczema skincare routine should include the use of an 

• Eczema shampoo and cleanser to keep the skin clean. Wash your face at least twice daily.

The second step is to keep the skin moisturized with an eczema cream. Moisturize your skin at least twice daily. Or every time you wash your skin or take a bath.

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