Many people use the terms melasma and hyperpigmentation interchangeably, but they are not exactly the same thing.

Hyperpigmentation is a broad term that refers to any area of skin that becomes darker than your natural skin tone due to excess melanin production. Common causes include:

Acne breakouts
Sun damage
Injuries or inflammation
Hormonal changes
Certain medications

Melasma is a specific type of hyperpigmentation that is often triggered by hormones and sun exposure. It typically appears as symmetrical patches of brown or gray-brown discoloration on the:

Forehead
Cheeks
Upper lip
Chin

Melasma is often more challenging to treat because it can be influenced by internal factors such as hormones, heat, and UV exposure.

Can Chemical Peels Help?

Chemical peels can be an effective option for both melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation when performed appropriately. The key is choosing the correct peel strength, application method, and treatment schedule based on the cause of the discoloration and your skin type.

At The Peel Connection, we focus on a progressive layered approach rather than an aggressive one-size-fits-all treatment. Every pigmentation concern is different, and understanding whether you’re dealing with melasma or another form of hyperpigmentation is often the first step toward achieving better results.

Not sure which one you have? Schedule a consultation and let’s take a closer look.