Your Concern

Hyperpigmentation & Melasma

Even out stubborn discoloration with customized treatment plans

Understanding Your Concern

About Hyperpigmentation & Melasma

Hyperpigmentation is an umbrella term covering sun spots, age spots, post-inflammatory marks, and the chronic condition melasma. Melasma deserves special attention because it's fundamentally different from sun damage. Melasma is a hormonally driven pigment disorder (triggered by pregnancy, birth control, or hormonal therapy) that affects the deeper layers of skin. The critical caveat: melasma is manageable, not curable. Aggressive treatments can paradoxically worsen it. Patients with skin of color need especially careful provider selection—overly aggressive treatment can trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. In San Diego's sunny climate, pigmentation concerns are extremely common, and we take a conservative, step-by-step approach. We start with gentle exfoliation and medical-grade skincare, progress to modest chemical peels, and add microneedling in specific cases. For melasma, we emphasize strict sun protection and may add oral medications like tranexamic acid. Expect 3–6 months for noticeable improvement, and maintenance is ongoing.

Common Causes

Sun exposure and cumulative UV damage (sun spots, age spots)
Hormonal changes (pregnancy, birth control, menopause)
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne, injury, or aggressive treatment
Genetic predisposition and skin type (Fitzpatrick IV–VI at higher risk for melasma)
Certain medications and inflammatory conditions

Ready to Address This?

Schedule a consultation to discuss your hyperpigmentation & melasma concerns with Dr. Shirazi.

Questions?

(858) 633-5991

Recommended Treatments

Top Recommendation

Chemical Peels

Targeted acids reduce surface pigment and promote even cell turnover; for melasma, depth and frequency must be conservative.

See the Protocol

Additional Options

Microneedling

Stimulates collagen remodeling and can improve pigmentation safely; particularly suitable for skin of color.

Tips from Dr. Azi

1
SPF 30+ every single day, reapplied every 2 hours—non-negotiable for melasma prevention
2
Avoid aggressive treatments that trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially for darker skin tones
3
Melasma is a management condition, not a cure—expect ongoing maintenance
4
Use prescription retinoid nightly to support pigment suppression
5
Consider oral tranexamic acid (with physician guidance) as part of a comprehensive melasma protocol
6
Vitamin C serum and hydroquinone support long-term control
7
Choose a provider experienced with your skin tone—treatment protocols vary by Fitzpatrick type

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Discuss Your Hyperpigmentation & Melasma Concerns

The $100 consultation fee is credited toward your first treatment.