You may first notice it as faint, uneven patches across your cheeks or forehead: darkened areas that seem to intensify after time outdoors or a change in hormones. Over time, those spots can become more defined, and makeup no longer conceals them as easily.
Melasma is one of the most common and emotionally taxing skin conditions for adults. At Contour Clinique Med Spa in Tampa Bay, our experienced team specializes in non-surgical solutions to help you achieve a clearer, more luminous complexion. Using evidence-based treatments like the VI Precision Plus Peptides Peel, MOXI laser, and advanced skincare lines like ZO Skin Health and SkinBetter Science, we target discoloration at its root, restoring your skin’s natural glow.
What is melasma?
Melasma is a form of hyperpigmentation that causes brown or gray-brown patches to appear on the face, most commonly on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin. It occurs when your skin produces too much melanin, the pigment responsible for color, leading to uneven areas of darker tone. Although melasma isn’t harmful, it can affect how you feel about your skin.
You may recognize melasma through the following common signs and symptoms:
- Brown or gray-brown patches on sun-exposed areas of your face
- Symmetrical discoloration on both sides of the face
- Darkened patches that worsen with sun or heat exposure
- Even, flat pigmentation rather than isolated dark spots
Why does melasma happen?
Melasma develops when pigment-producing cells in your skin, called melanocytes, become overstimulated. This overstimulation leads to excessive melanin production and uneven pigment distribution across the skin’s surface. While genetics and hormones often play a role, external factors like sunlight or certain skincare products can make symptoms more pronounced.
Common triggers that can lead to or worsen melasma include:
- Ultraviolet (UV) rays
- Pregnancy, birth control, or hormone therapy
- Infrared light and high temperatures
- Certain medications or cosmetics
Non-surgical treatments for melasma
Effective treatment for melasma involves reducing pigment production, accelerating skin renewal, and preventing future discoloration. At Contour Clinique Med Spa, we specialize in non-surgical therapies that address both the surface appearance and the underlying cause of melasma. Each plan is tailored to your unique skin type, tone, and specific triggers, ensuring optimal results and lasting clarity. Below are our most advanced treatments for melasma available at our Westchase location:
VI Precision Plus Peptides Peel
The VI Precision Plus Peptides Peel is a targeted peel engineered to minimize pigmentation associated with melasma. Formulated with a medical-grade blend of TCA, retinoic acid, salicylic acid, phenol, vitamin C, and peptides, this chemical peel exfoliates damaged skin and boosts cellular turnover. As discolored skin sheds, fresh, evenly toned skin comes forward. Over a series of treatments, the peel disperses excess melanin, softens dark patches, refines texture, and enhances overall clarity for a brighter, more balanced complexion.
MOXI laser
The MOXI laser is a non-ablative fractional laser that revitalizes skin from within, without disrupting the surface. It delivers precise micro-pulses of light energy that target and fragment pigmented cells while stimulating collagen renewal. This process not only reduces visible pigmentation but also improves texture and radiance over time. Because MOXI is gentle and requires minimal recovery, it’s ideal for ongoing pigment maintenance or combination therapy with peels. Many patients notice a refreshed, luminous tone after just one session.
Advanced skincare protocols
For continued pigment management and barrier support, we integrate medical-grade skincare lines like ZO Skin Health and SkinBetter Science into your regimen. ZO’s hydroquinone, retinol, niacinamide, and vitamin C formulations regulate melanin activity, while SkinBetter offers potent, non-hydroquinone-based pigment-correcting options suitable for long-term maintenance or sensitive skin. When used consistently, these products enhance in-office treatments, protect your results, and sustain a more even, luminous complexion.
Customized combination therapy
Melasma is complex, and long-term success often requires a multi-layered strategy. At Contour Clinique, we may pair MOXI laser sessions with a VI Precision Plus Peptides Peel and ongoing skincare support from ZO or SkinBetter to target pigment at multiple skin depths. Every plan begins with a detailed skin analysis, where our providers evaluate your triggers, lifestyle, and treatment goals to design a safe, effective path toward radiant, even-toned skin.
Achieving lasting clarity and confidence
Treating melasma is not just about brightening the surface: it’s about restoring harmony to your skin. With expert care and advanced non-surgical treatments at Contour Clinique Med Spa, you can expect measurable improvement in tone, texture, and overall complexion.
Whether your pigmentation appeared during pregnancy, after sun exposure, or seemingly without reason, we’re here to help you regain clear skin. Schedule your consultation and let our expert team craft a treatment plan that brings out your natural radiance.
