Melasma

Melasma is a chronic pigmentation disorder caused by the overproduction of melanin in the skin. It typically appears as symmetrical brown or grayish patches, most commonly on the face, though it can also occur on areas exposed to sunlight like the neck and forearms. While melasma is not harmful, it can be emotionally distressing and resistant to many topical treatments.

At Kelowna Hills, our physician-led team uses a careful, medically guided approach to identify your triggers and safely manage melasma without worsening sensitivity. We focus on improving pigmentation gradually and strengthening the skin barrier to prevent recurrence. Our treatment approach targets:

• Hormonal-related pigmentation (common during pregnancy or with birth control use)
  
• UV- and heat-induced pigmentation
  
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation caused by irritation
  
• Uneven tone and surface dullness
  
• Skin barrier weakness that exacerbates pigment retention
  

Our medical expertise ensures treatments are performed precisely and safely for your unique skin type.

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Melasma is most often caused by hormonal fluctuations, ultraviolet exposure, and inflammation that overstimulate pigment-producing cells called melanocytes. It is more common in women, particularly during pregnancy, menopause, or when using hormonal contraception. Heat and visible light exposure can also aggravate melasma, making prevention and maintenance critical.

Common triggers include:

• Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, or birth control use
  
• Chronic sun exposure and lack of SPF protection
  
• Overheating from saunas, hot yoga, or high temperatures
  
• Inflammation from harsh skincare products or treatments
  
• Genetics and skin type (more common in medium to darker tones)
  

At Kelowna Hills, our physician-led team takes the time to identify the underlying causes of your melasma through a detailed consultation and skin analysis. This allows us to build a treatment plan that corrects pigment safely, reduces inflammation, and strengthens your skin’s natural defenses to prevent recurrence.

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Melasma requires a delicate and customized approach—treating it too aggressively can worsen pigmentation. That’s why our physician-directed clinic uses advanced, clinically proven methods that balance correction with skin health. Each plan begins with a professional assessment to determine your melasma type (epidermal, dermal, or mixed) and sensitivity level.

Depending on your skin’s needs, your customized melasma plan may include:

• Lumecca™ IPL for controlled pigment correction and improved tone
  
• Chemical Peels with gentle, pigment-safe formulas to exfoliate and fade dark patches
  
• SkinPen® Microneedling to promote cell turnover and enhance product absorption
  
• Exosome Therapy to repair the skin barrier and reduce post-inflammatory pigmentation
  
• Medical-Grade Skincare such as pigment inhibitors, vitamin C, and SPF to maintain clarity
  

All treatments are performed or supervised by our physician-led team to ensure safe, gradual improvement and long-term melasma management.

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Long-Term Melasma Management and Prevention

Because melasma is a chronic condition, long-term care and prevention are essential to maintaining results. At Kelowna Hills, we focus on sustainable, physician-guided skin health strategies that prevent pigment from resurfacing. Our goal is to help you manage melasma safely, maintain results, and build confidence in your complexion.

Our physician-led team recommends:

• Applying broad-spectrum SPF 50 daily, even indoors or in cloudy weather
  
• Avoiding excessive heat and UV exposure
  
• Using antioxidant-rich skincare to strengthen your skin barrier
  
• Incorporating pigment-suppressing ingredients like tranexamic acid and niacinamide
  
• Scheduling maintenance treatments for ongoing pigment control
  

With consistent care and professional oversight, melasma can be effectively managed and minimized, allowing your natural radiance to shine through.

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