Melasma is a common acquired pigmentation disorder characterised by brown, grey-brown or darker patches, most often appearing symmetrically on areas such as the cheeks, forehead, nose, upper lip and chin. It is associated with increased melanin production and can be influenced by factors including ultraviolet and visible light exposure, hormonal changes and genetic predisposition.
Melasma treatment in Delhi at Citrine Clinic focuses on identifying the pattern and severity of pigmentation before selecting an appropriate treatment strategy. Under the guidance of Dr. Niti Gaur, treatment may combine prescription skincare, pigmentation-correcting procedures, chemical peels, laser-based therapies and other dermatological approaches, depending on the patient's skin type and individual condition.
Melasma treatment aims to reduce excessive pigmentation, improve skin-tone uniformity and control factors that contribute to recurrent pigmentation. Unlike a simple surface-level pigmentation concern, melasma can involve pigment at different depths and is often influenced by hormonal and environmental triggers.
Treatment may include prescription depigmenting agents, chemical peels, selected laser or light-based procedures and supportive skin-rejuvenation therapies. Ingredients such as hydroquinone, tretinoin, azelaic acid and tranexamic acid may be considered by a dermatologist depending on the patient's condition.
At Citrine Clinic, melasma treatment in Delhi is planned after assessing the pigmentation pattern, skin type, possible triggers and previous treatments. This is important because unnecessarily aggressive treatment can irritate the skin and potentially aggravate pigmentation.
| Treatment | How It Helps |
| Prescription Pigmentation Creams | Help regulate excess pigmentation and gradually reduce the appearance of dark patches under dermatological supervision. |
| Chemical Peels | Controlled exfoliation can help improve superficial pigmentation and promote a more even complexion. |
| Laser Pigmentation Treatment | Selected laser technologies may target excess pigment and improve pigmentation in appropriate patients. |
| Light-Based Therapy | Certain light-based approaches may be considered as part of a carefully selected pigmentation protocol. |
| Cosmelan Peel | A specialised depigmentation peel designed to help reduce the appearance of facial pigmentation. |
| Tranexamic Acid-Based Therapy | May be considered in selected patients because of its role in reducing pathways involved in melanin production. |
| Mesotherapy | Certain depigmenting formulations may be delivered intradermally as part of a customised protocol. |
| Skin Rejuvenation Treatments | Selected procedures can improve overall skin quality and support a more uniform appearance. |
| Medical-Grade Skincare | Dermatologist-prescribed products help maintain treatment results and reduce the risk of pigmentation returning. |
The melasma treatment cost in Delhi can range from approximately ₹5,000 to ₹50,000 per session, depending on the procedure, treatment area and overall treatment plan.
| Cost Category | Approximate Cost |
| Minimum | ₹5,000/session |
| Average | ₹27,500/session |
| Maximum | ₹50,000/session |
Factors That Affect Melasma Treatment Cost in Delhi
When appropriately selected and performed under dermatological supervision, melasma treatments can be well tolerated. However, possible effects include:
Melasma treatment in Delhi may be considered for individuals experiencing:
Brown or grey-brown facial patchesSymmetrical pigmentation on the cheeks, forehead or upper lipHormone-associated pigmentationSun-aggravated melasmaPersistent facial pigmentation despite skincareUneven skin tone associated with melasmaRecurrent pigmentation requiring long-term managementPigmentation that affects confidence or appearanceThe melasma treatment in Delhi process at Citrine Clinic generally involves
Detailed skin assessment - The dermatologist examines the distribution, colour and pattern of pigmentation.
Identification of triggers - Hormonal factors, sun exposure, skincare practices and previous treatments may be reviewed.
Skin-type assessment - Skin sensitivity and pigmentation tendency are considered before treatment selection.
Treatment planning - A personalised protocol may include topical medication, peels, laser or combination therapy.
Procedure - The selected treatment is performed according to the prescribed protocol.
Post-treatment skincare - Gentle skincare and pigmentation-control products may be recommended.
Follow-up - The response is reviewed and the treatment plan adjusted where necessary.
Maintenance - Long-term sun protection and prescribed skincare help control recurrence.
Recovery depends on the procedure performed and the intensity of treatment.
| Timeframe | What to Expect |
| Immediately After | Mild redness, warmth or sensitivity may occur after certain procedures. |
| 1–3 Days | Dryness, mild irritation or peeling may develop after selected peels or treatments. |
| 1 Week | The skin generally begins to settle, with gradual improvement in tone. |
| 2–4 Weeks | Pigmentation may appear lighter and skin tone more uniform in responsive patients. |
| 6–12 Weeks | Progressive improvement may become more evident with consistent treatment and homecare. |
| Ongoing Care | Maintenance skincare and strict photoprotection remain important to reduce recurrence. |
Melasma treatment may also be incorporated into management plans for associated concerns such as:
However, each pigmentation condition has a different cause and treatment response, so the underlying diagnosis should be established before treatment.
Hyperpigmentation
Sun-induced tanning
Post-inflammatory pigmentation
Acne marks
Uneven skin tone
Dull complexion
Mild textural irregularities
Certain age-related pigmentation concerns
Individual pigmentation assessment - Treatment is planned after evaluating pigmentation distribution, skin type and severity rather than applying a fixed protocol.Controlled treatment intensity - Procedures can be selected and calibrated with the patient's pigmentation tendency in mind.Combination treatment strategy - Medical skincare can be combined with selected peels or procedures when clinically appropriate.Focus on pigmentation safety - Avoiding excessive inflammation is particularly important for melasma-prone skin.Trigger-focused management - Sun exposure, hormonal influences and skincare-related irritation can be considered alongside procedural treatment.Long-term approach - Treatment focuses not only on lightening existing pigmentation but also on maintaining improvement and managing recurrence.Dermatologist-led protocols - Procedure selection and post-treatment care are guided by professional skin assessment.Although the face is the most common location, melasma can occasionally appear on areas such as the neck and forearms, particularly in areas exposed to sunlight.
Stress itself is not considered a direct cause of melasma, but hormonal and physiological changes associated with stress may potentially influence existing pigmentation in some individuals.
Yes. Conditions such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, lentigines and certain medication-related pigmentation can resemble melasma. A dermatologist's assessment helps establish the correct diagnosis.
Yes. In some people with melasma, exposure to visible light can contribute to pigmentation. This is one reason dermatologists may recommend comprehensive photoprotection rather than relying only on basic sun avoidance.
The depth and distribution of pigmentation can vary across the face. Differences in skin thickness, exposure and the underlying type of pigmentation can influence treatment response.
Some products can cause irritation, and inflammation may make pigmentation more noticeable in susceptible skin. Using products appropriate for your skin and avoiding unnecessary irritation can therefore be an important part of melasma management.
