Developed by our experts for you
Reduce Skin hyperpigmentation
Personalised Melasma Treatment
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Developed by dermatologists
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With over 30+ years of experience with melasma patients
Skin Recovery and Repair
Microbiome Treatments
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Treatment formulated by our Microbiome expert researchers
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Innovated from our very own KINS lab in Japan
What is Melasma?
Melasma is a common skin condition that involves the appearance of brown or gray-brown patches on the face, particularly on areas such as the cheeks, forehead, nose, and upper lip. While melasma is not harmful, it may persist or fluctuate over time.
At KINS Clinic, we provide personalised assessments and a range of treatment options designed to help manage melasma and support overall skin health. Our approach focuses on individualised care, combining pigment-targeted therapies with strategies to maintain a healthy skin barrier.
Learn more about the causes, contributing factors, and evidence-based treatment options for melasma from trusted medical sources and expert insights. Consultation with a doctor is recommended to determine the most suitable management plan for your skin condition.
What causes Melasma?
Melasma is a complex skin condition influenced by multiple internal and external factors. Understanding these triggers can help in developing a personalised and effective management plan.
Common contributing factors include:
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Overproduction of melanin: Excess melanin leads to the formation of dark patches on the skin.
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Sun exposure: Prolonged or unprotected UV exposure stimulates melanin production and can worsen existing pigmentation.
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Hormonal fluctuations: Changes during pregnancy or the use of hormonal contraceptives may trigger melasma, especially in women.
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Genetics: A family history of melasma increases the likelihood of developing the condition.
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Irritation from skincare products or medications: Certain ingredients can irritate the skin and exacerbate pigmentation.
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Environmental factors and stress: Heat, pollution, and chronic stress may contribute to the severity of melasma.
Where does it appear?
Melasma most commonly appears on sun-exposed areas of the face. Its characteristic dark or grey-brown patches can vary in size and distribution, depending on individual skin type and environmental exposure.
Typical areas affected by melasma include:
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Cheekbones: The most commonly affected zone, where patches often form symmetrically on both sides.
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Upper lip and mouth area: Melasma can develop around the lips, particularly during hormonal changes such as pregnancy.
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Forehead and nose bridge: Other frequently exposed areas prone to pigmentation.
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Widespread distribution: In some cases, melasma can extend beyond the central face, particularly in those with higher sun exposure or underlying sensitivity.
Unsure of your Melasma condition?
Distinguishing melasma from other pigmentation concerns—such as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, freckles, or age spots—can be difficult, as symptoms often overlap in appearance and location.
If you're uncertain about your skin condition or the most appropriate treatment, consulting a licensed dermatologist or qualified skincare professional is the recommended first step.
At KINS Clinic, we offer comprehensive skin assessments to help identify the cause of pigmentation and guide you toward a treatment approach tailored to your skin's needs and lifestyle. Our goal is to support you in making informed decisions based on medical insights and personalised care.
How to treat Melasma
Effective melasma care typically involves two key steps: reducing existing pigmentation and preventing its recurrence. At KINS Clinic in Singapore, we offer a personalised and integrated treatment approach that addresses both.
STEP
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Eliminate Accumulated Melanin Pigment
Targeted laser therapy is commonly used to break down accumulated melanin responsible for dark patches. At KINS Clinic, we utilise Q-switched lasers with wavelength settings suitable for treating different depths of pigmentation associated with melasma.
Our laser protocols are customised based on individual skin types and melasma patterns, helping to gradually fade uneven tone, dullness, and pigmentation over a series of treatments. All procedures are performed by a doctor, with patient safety and comfort as top priorities.
STEP
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Preventing Melanin Accumulation
Melasma management doesn’t end with pigment removal. Preventing melanin reaccumulation is crucial for long-term results.
At KINS Clinic, we combine evidence-based topical and oral therapies with personalised skincare routines.
These include:
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Daily UV protection to minimise sun-induced melanin production
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Moisturisation to support skin barrier function
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Microbiome skincare to help balance the skin’s natural flora, potentially reducing sensitivity and improving resistance to environmental triggers
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Lifestyle guidance to address factors like stress, sleep, and diet
This comprehensive strategy supports skin health and helps reduce the likelihood of melasma recurrence.
Available types of treatments
Oral & Topical Treatments:
Topical creams and oral medications are commonly considered as part of melasma management plans, especially for milder or early-stage cases.
These may include:
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Hydroquinone – a skin-lightening agent that may help reduce melanin production
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Retinoids – support cell turnover and can gradually improve pigmentation
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Azelaic acid – used to help lighten dark spots and soothe inflammation
These treatments are selected and prescribed based on your skin’s sensitivity, condition, and overall pigmentation profile, under the supervision of a doctor.
Laser Treatments:
Laser therapy is commonly used to target deeper pigmentation layers.
At KINS Clinic, we offer options such as:
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Q-switched Nd:YAG laser – known for its precision in targeting melanin while minimizing disruption to surrounding skin
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Fractional lasers – used for cases where resurfacing and skin renewal are also indicated
The Q-switched laser delivers energy at specific wavelengths to fragment melanin clusters, which are then naturally eliminated by the body. These treatments are performed by a doctor and are adjusted based on individual response and skin condition.
Microbiome repair therapy:
In addition to in-clinic procedures, maintaining a healthy skin barrier is an essential component of long-term melasma management. Disruptions in the skin’s microbiome and barrier function may increase sensitivity and contribute to pigmentary flare-ups.
At KINS Clinic, we incorporate microbiome-focused skincare into our comprehensive melasma care protocols.
Our signature skincare products, developed in Japan by microbiome researchers, are specifically designed to:
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Strengthen and support the skin barrier
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Promote moisture retention to reduce irritation
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Help maintain a healthy, balanced skin microbiome
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Minimise skin sensitivity to environmental triggers commonly associated with melasma
These formulations are non-comedogenic, making them suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin, and are intended to complement in-clinic treatments such as laser therapy. This holistic approach helps maintain clearer, healthier skin while supporting melasma prevention and recovery.
KINS Melasma Treatment
Melasma treatment at KINS Clinic is suitable for individuals seeking professional support for facial pigmentation concerns, particularly the appearance of brown or gray-brown patches. It may also be appropriate for those committed to maintaining a comprehensive skincare routine that includes sun protection, topical applications, and, when necessary, in-clinic procedures recommended by a qualified medical professional.
Potential Benefits:
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Reduced hyperpigmentation
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Enhanced skin tone
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Prevention of melasma
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Improved skin microbiome
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Minimal downtime
First trial prices: from $288
KINS Clinic DOCTOR'S PROFILE
Dr.Henry Loh
Dermatologist and Chief Medical Advisor
Fellows of the Academy of Medicine, Singapore (FAMS) / Membership of the Royal Colleges of Physicians (MRCP) / Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (BMBS)
Prior to joining KINS Clinic, Dr. Henry Loh was a co- founding partner of Dermatology Associates, one of the largest private dermatology clinic groups in Singapore. He has also been instrumental in promoting the use of the latest treatments.
Medical Director and Consultant
Post-graduate Diploma in Practical Dermatology (PgDip) / Doctor of Medicine (MD) / Bachelor of Medical Studies (BMed) / Bachelor of Science in Medicine (BSc (Med))
Dr Silver Chua specialises in the medical care of acne, rosacea, and other common skin concerns, complemented by a strong background in aesthetic treatments. She leads the fully integrated care pathway at KINS Clinic—ensuring patients receive cohesive, evidence-based care that bridges both medical and aesthetic needs. Her approach is grounded in safety, with a strong emphasis on achieving naturally balanced, lasting results.
Dr Silver is fluent in both English and Mandarin
