Melasma is when dark patches appear on your face usually on your cheeks, forehead, nose or upper lip. It happens because pigment-making cells go into overdrive.
Often, this is triggered by sun exposure, hormones, or family history. Though it isn’t dangerous, melasma looks different from normal spots.
And it is natural to wonder if it signals something more serious. That’s one reason you might choose a doctor’s help rather than treating it yourself.
Plus, treatments like prescription creams, peels or lasers work better and a dermatologist can tailor them to your skin. We debunk some myths here: https://onefaceclinic.com/myth-debunked-lasers-cure-all-melasma-and-pigmentations/
What can your GP do for Melasma?
When you first notice patches of dark skin, the first doctor you will want to visit is your GP. At the clinic, they will ask about when the spots appeared, any family history, pregnancies, contraceptive use, your sun habits and any skin treatments you’ve tried.
After that, they will look closely at your skin. Often, that’s enough for a confident diagnosis but sometimes a simple lamp like a Wood’s light helps to see if the pigment is deep or superficial.
However, most of the time a visual check works fine. At first, your GP can offer useful, manageable care for melasma.
For example, they may prescribe mild topical creams like hydroquinone (usually 2–4 %) or azelaic acid or even a triple-combination cream of hydroquinone, a retinoid, and a steroid if needed. You’ll also get clear guidance on sun protection.
For example, they will guide you on how to use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or above, or recommend tinted or iron-oxide sunscreens that also block visible light.
Depending on your specific situation too, they may suggest seeking shade, wearing hats and reapplying sun protection often. Your GP can then refill prescriptions and adjust them over time.
The best thing about seeing your GP when you’re looking for a top melasma treatment is that they’re nearby, familiar with your history and usually easier to reach than a specialist. That means less waiting, more convenience, and typically lower costs.
You can also ask questions freely, and they can help you use treatments safely in your everyday life. The problem is that they do not have the specialised tools dermatologists use like advanced lasers, microneedling or professional-grade peels.
They also might not offer oral treatments like tranexamic acid unless your case is more severe. If progress stalls or your melasma is deep or stubborn, your GP may suggest a referral to a dermatologist for further options.
What does a Top Melasma Clinic Offer?
To begin with, what makes a clinic “top” for melasma? This is the question you should be asking yourself before trusting any facility that claims to be a top melasma clinic with your skin.
Now, in a top melasma clinic, you get care from dermatologists or qualified aesthetic doctors, not just general practitioners. These specialists use diagnostic tools like Wood’s lamps, colorimetry, mexametry or MASI scoring to understand the type and depth of your pigmentation and track progress. Services you’d expect to find in a top melasma clinic include:
Laser therapy which includes options like Pico, fractional, Q-switched, or IPL lasers. These deliver controlled light energy that targets and breaks down excess pigment without damaging surrounding skin.
Chemical peels which use acids such as glycolic, salicylic, or TCA to gently exfoliate the upper layers of skin. By removing old, pigmented cells, the skin renews itself with fresher and clearer layers. With repeated treatments, peels can gradually reduce dark patches and improve overall brightness.
Microneedling to create tiny channels in the skin using fine needles, often combined with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for added healing benefits. This process stimulates collagen production and improves skin texture. It also improves the absorption of topical treatments which makes them more effective against melasma.
Topical prescription-grade treatments. These remain a key part of clinic care and include hydroquinone for pigment lightening, retinoids for faster cell turnover, and acids like azelaic or kojic to reduce pigment activity. Combination creams often bring the best results, especially when monitored by a specialist.
Facials which are designed for melasma and are not the typical spa versions but medical-grade therapies tailored for sensitive, pigment-prone skin. They hydrate, calm inflammation, and gently resurface without triggering irritation.
Advanced laser-based peels or rejuvenation. These treatments combine the resurfacing benefits of peels with the precision of modern laser systems, like Fotona 4D or Pico treatments. These approaches reach deeper pigment while promoting collagen for long-term skin health. Sometimes, they’re paired with injectables that boost radiance and elasticity for an overall clearer look.
The best part about visiting a top melasma clinic is that you can be assured of personalised treatment plans. These clinics can assess your skin type, melasma depth (epidermal vs dermal), lifestyle and goals to tailor therapy.
They also offer regular follow-ups and may use advanced imaging like color measurement or scoring to monitor results. So, unlike GP care, such clinics deliver access to targeted, potent options that go beyond creams and advice.
You benefit from precision equipment, specialist know-how, and tools to track improvement. That makes advanced clinics far more likely to help when melasma doesn’t respond to basic treatment.
When to Choose GP vs. Top Melasma Clinic
Both your GP and a top melasma clinic can help with melasma. However, there are specific instances when one may be a better fit than the other. Here are key considerations to help you make an informed decision:
Severity and how your melasma has responded so far: If your melasma is mild, shows up on limited areas, and improves with creams and sun habits, your GP can manage it well. But if it’s persistent, spreading, or resistant to basic treatments, visiting a top melasma clinic may be the best next step.
What treatments you’ve tried and how they worked: If your GP has tried topical combinations like hydroquinone, retinoid and steroid that helped, you may continue under their care. However, if there’s little change or worsening, a top melasma clinic with laser, peels or advanced therapies may offer more options.
Budget and insurance considerations: GP visits usually cost less, and may be covered more easily by insurance. On the other hand, specialist clinics often cost more, and you might need a referral for insurance to cover them.
Wrapping Up
Both your GP and a top melasma clinic can offer treatments that are effective against melasma. However, many people start with their GP because they’re accessible, cost-effective, and familiar.
However, if progress stalls or you’d like more advanced options, a referral to a top melasma clinic makes sense. That way, you benefit from both. Local support first, and specialist care when needed.
Our specialist clinic offers tailored advanced treatments for melasma and similar skin conditions. To find out what can work for you, we urge you to schedule an appointment with one of our specialists for tailored care. Call or visit us at:
One Face Skin Care – Melasma | Pigmentation | Acne Treatment Singapore
1 Tras Link, #02-03/04 Orchid Hotel, Singapore 078867
🌐 https://onefaceskincare.com.sg/
📞 +65 8809 9066
