Melasma vs. Hyperpigmentation: What’s the Difference?

If you've ever noticed dark patches or uneven skin tone on your face, you might have assumed it was just hyperpigmentation. But did you know that melasma is actually a specific type of hyperpigmentation—and it requires a different approach to treatment?

In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between melasma and general hyperpigmentation, why they happen, and how to treat them effectively.

What Is Hyperpigmentation?

Hyperpigmentation is a broad term for any darkening of the skin caused by an increase in melanin production. It can appear in different forms:

• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH): Dark spots left behind after acne, burns, cuts, or skin treatments.

• Sunspots (also called age spots): Caused by long-term sun exposure.

• Freckles: Often genetic and triggered by sun exposure.

Hyperpigmentation can occur anywhere on the body and affects all skin tones, though it tends to be more noticeable in medium to darker complexions.

What Is Melasma?

Melasma is a specific and chronic form of hyperpigmentation. It shows up as symmetric, blotchy, brown or grayish patches—most often on the face (cheeks, upper lip, forehead, and jawline).

What makes melasma unique is that it’s usually hormone-related, meaning it’s often triggered by:

• Pregnancy (also called the "mask of pregnancy")

• Birth control pills

• Hormonal fluctuations

• Sun exposure

• Genetics

How Can You Tell the Difference?

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of melasma and regular hyperpigmentation:

• Causes:

  • Hyperpigmentation: Acne, inflammation, sun exposure

  • Melasma: Hormonal changes, sun exposure, pregnancy, genetics

• Appearance:

  • Hyperpigmentation: Dark spots or patches, irregular shape

  • Melasma: Symmetrical blotchy patches

• Common Areas:

  • Hyperpigmentation: Can appear anywhere on the body

  • Melasma: Primarily on the face (cheeks, forehead, upper lip, jawline)

• Duration:

  • Hyperpigmentation: Often fades over time or with treatment

  • Melasma: More persistent and likely to recur without maintenance

• Response to Treatment:

  • Hyperpigmentation: Typically responds well to brightening products and treatments

  • Melasma: Requires a gentler, consistent, and long-term approach

Why Does It Matter?

At Silk Aesthetic Skin Clinic, we specialize in identifying the root cause of your skin concerns and recommending treatments that are safe, targeted, and effective—especially for sensitive or melasma-prone skin.

How Is Melasma Treated?

Treating melasma often involves a gentler and more customized approach, such as:

• Topical ingredients like tranexamic acid, azelaic acid, niacinamide, or hydroquinone (if prescribed)

• Laser treatments or chemical peels—specifically those designed for pigment-related concerns

• Microneedling or RF microneedling

• Strict sun protection (daily SPF is non-negotiable!)

Still Not Sure What You Have?

The best way to know whether you’re dealing with melasma or another form of hyperpigmentation is to schedule a professional skin consultation.

At Silk Aesthetic Skin Clinic, we take the time to assess your skin, listen to your concerns, and build a plan that works—not just for now, but long-term.

Book your consultation today and let’s take the first step toward glowing, even-toned skin—only at Silk Aesthetic Skin Clinic.