Melasma: What It Is & Why Fall Is the Perfect Time to Treat It

If you’ve ever noticed stubborn brown or grey-brown patches on your cheeks, forehead, or upper lip that just won’t budge no matter how many skincare products you try — you might be dealing with melasma.

What is melasma?

Melasma is a type of hyperpigmentation that happens when your skin produces too much melanin (the pigment that gives skin its color). Unlike freckles or age spots, melasma often appears in larger, symmetrical patches and can be triggered or worsened by certain factors.

Common causes and triggers

Melasma doesn’t have just one cause — it’s usually the result of a combination of factors, including:

• Sun exposure — UV light stimulates pigment production and is the most common trigger.

• Hormonal changes — pregnancy, birth control pills, or hormone therapy can play a role.

• Heat — high temperatures (from the sun, saunas, or even hot yoga) can worsen melasma.

• Genetics — if your family members have melasma, you may be more likely to develop it.

• Certain medications or cosmetics — some can make skin more prone to pigmentation changes.

  
  

Symptoms of melasma

• Brown, tan, or grey-brown flat patches

• Most common on the cheeks, forehead, nose, upper lip, and chin

• Usually appears on both sides of the face in a similar pattern

• May darken in summer and lighten in cooler months

• Generally doesn’t itch, hurt, or cause physical discomfort — but can affect confidence and self-esteem

Why fall is a great time for melasma treatments

Treating melasma successfully means targeting the pigment while also avoiding things that trigger it — and that’s where fall has the advantage:

• Cooler temperatures mean less heat-related inflammation, which can make pigmentation worse.

• Shorter days = fewer hours of intense sunlight, so your skin is less likely to re-darken after treatment.

• Post-summer reset – after months of UV exposure, fall is the perfect time to give your skin some extra TLC.

How we approach melasma

At Revive Laser Studio, we use the Hollywood Spectra laser to gently target and break down excess pigment without damaging surrounding skin. This laser is safe for most skin tones and can be part of a broader melasma management plan.

Because melasma is chronic and prone to returning, topical pigment-control agents (often prescribed or recommended by dermatologists) are typically an important part of ongoing care. These may include creams that help slow pigment production and even out skin tone.

Our best tips for melasma care

• Sunscreen every day — even in fall and winter.

• Use topical pigment-control products if they’ve been prescribed or recommended to you.

• Avoid excessive heat right after treatments.

• Be patient — melasma is manageable, but it takes consistent care.

Ready to start your fall skin reset? Book a consultation today and let’s create a plan to help calm and control your melasma before next summer rolls around.