Clinic LogoDr. Uzma Pirzada

    Pigmentation · DHA Phase 6, Karachi

    Melasma Treatment

    Pico laser, medical-grade depigmenting agents & chemical peels — managed by a PMDC Verified Dermatologist with 26 years of experience in DHA Phase 6, Karachi.

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    What is melasma treatment?

    Melasma is a chronic pigmentation condition that causes brown or grey-brown patches to appear on the face, most commonly on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and chin. It is particularly prevalent in Pakistani women due to Karachi's high UV intensity and hormonal factors including pregnancy, oral contraceptives, and thyroid conditions. At Dr. Uzma Pirzada's Skin & Laser Clinic in DHA Phase 6, Karachi, melasma is treated with a multi-pronged clinical approach that combines Pico laser — the gold-standard device for safe melanin targeting in darker South Asian skin tones — with medical-grade topical depigmenting agents containing tranexamic acid, kojic acid, and niacinamide, and a series of chemical peels to accelerate cell turnover. Dr. Uzma emphasises that melasma is a chronic condition requiring ongoing management rather than a single-session cure. Treatment plans are designed individually because melasma varies significantly in depth, distribution, and hormonal triggers between patients. Results are gradual, typically appearing over 3 to 6 months.

    How it works

    1

    Clinical Diagnosis

    Dr. Uzma determines the type and depth of melasma (epidermal, dermal, or mixed) using clinical examination. This dictates which combination of treatments will be most effective.

    2

    Pico Laser Sessions

    Ultra-short pulse laser energy shatters melanin deposits without generating damaging heat. Safe for all South Asian skin tones. Sessions are spaced 3–4 weeks apart.

    3

    Medical Topicals

    Prescription-grade depigmenting agents are applied between sessions to inhibit new melanin production and lock in laser results.

    4

    Maintenance Protocol

    Daily SPF 50+ is mandatory. A long-term maintenance plan is provided to prevent recurrence, especially important during Karachi's peak UV months.

    Who it's for

    Ideal for

    • ✓Brown or grey facial patches
    • ✓Darker South Asian skin tones (Fitzpatrick III–VI)
    • ✓Melasma triggered by sun, hormones, or pregnancy
    • ✓Patients who have tried over-the-counter products without results
    • ✓Patients committed to daily sun protection

    Not suitable if

    • ✕Active skin infections on treatment area
    • ✕Pregnancy (laser not recommended)
    • ✕Patients unwilling to commit to daily SPF
    • ✕Recent chemical peel within 2 weeks

    Results & Sessions

    4–8
    Pico laser sessions
    None
    Downtime
    6–8 weeks
    Results visible
    Ongoing
    With maintenance

    Frequently asked questions

    Melasma is a chronic condition — it can be significantly lightened and controlled but not permanently eliminated. Without consistent sun protection and maintenance, it will recur. Dr. Uzma designs long-term management plans, not one-off fixes.

    Yes. Pico laser is the preferred choice specifically because it shatters pigment without generating significant heat, making it much safer for darker Fitzpatrick III–VI skin tones common in Pakistan compared to older laser types.

    Melasma is deeper, hormonally triggered, and more resistant to treatment than simple sun-induced pigmentation. It requires a medical diagnosis to confirm type and depth before the right treatment can be selected.

    Dr. Uzma will review your hormonal history at consultation. While stopping oral contraceptives can help in some cases, it is not always necessary and is assessed individually.

    Take control of your melasma

    Book a clinical consultation with Dr. Uzma Pirzada to design your personalised pigmentation plan.

    Book Appointment