Personalized Care at Wave Plastic Surgery
Melasma is one of the most common and persistent pigmentary skin conditions—especially among women with darker skin tones. At Wave Plastic Surgery, we understand how frustrating it can be when dark patches on your face affect your confidence, even after other facial procedures or skincare treatments. That’s why we offer customized melasma treatment plans combining modern science with advanced technology—including PiQo4 laser therapy.
Whether you’re in Los Angeles, Orange County, or San Francisco, our team is here to help you regain clear, even-toned skin with multimodal treatment solutions tailored just for you.
What Is Melasma?
Melasma is a chronic skin condition characterized by symmetrical, blotchy brown patches—commonly appearing on the forehead, cheeks, upper lip, and nose. It most often develops between ages 20 to 40 and is particularly common in patients of Asian, Latina, or Middle Eastern descent.
What Causes Melasma?
Melasma develops due to a combination of factors:
- Genetics – More common in those with Fitzpatrick skin types IV and above.
- Sun Exposure – UV rays and even visible light stimulate excess melanin.
- Hormonal Changes – Pregnancy, contraceptives, and menopause can trigger pigmentation.
- Medications – Drugs like phenytoin and hormone therapies may worsen melasma.
- Diet & Lifestyle – Foods like soy, tofu, sesame seeds, and emotional stress can play a role.
- Skin Trauma – Aggressive treatments or injury can activate pigmentation.
At Wave, we don’t just treat melasma—we investigate the root cause to create a long-term plan that fits your skin type and lifestyle.
Why Is Melasma So Hard to Treat?
Melasma is stubborn and multifactorial, meaning a one-size-fits-all treatment won’t work. In the past, many patients were disappointed by failed attempts with single-product solutions or outdated lasers. That’s why our approach is comprehensive and personalized.
- There is no permanent cure, but there is control.
With our cutting-edge technology and a multimodality treatment plan, patients can expect up to 70% improvement—often after just a few months.
Your Custom Melasma Treatment at Wave Plastic Surgery
We begin with a diagnostic skin analysis, a medical-grade imaging system that evaluates pigmentation, hydration, UV damage, and more. Based on your results, we develop a personalized treatment plan that may include:
- Sun Protection: Daily use of SPF 35+ with physical blockers like titanium dioxide or iron oxide.
- Dietary Changes: Limit soy, grains, and seeds that may stimulate melanin production.
- Stress Management: Incorporate stress-reducing practices or seek support if needed.
- Medication Review: Evaluate use of contraceptives or medications that may trigger pigmentation.
Initial Phase (3–4 Months):
- Hydroquinone: A tyrosinase inhibitor that reduces melanin production.
- Retinoids (e.g., Retin-A): Promote cell turnover and suppress melanocytes.
- Corticosteroids: Calm inflammation and increase product tolerance.
Maintenance Phase:
We transition to gentler ingredients like:
- Kojic acid
- Niacinamide (Vitamin B3)
- Vitamin C
- Tranexamic acid (topical)
- Tranexamic Acid (oral): Used carefully in low doses to decrease melanin without clotting risk.
- Polypodium Leucotomos (PL): A natural antioxidant that protects skin from UV damage.
PiQo4 Laser Treatments (Our Gold Standard)
Our PICO4 laser is one of the most effective tools for melasma treatment. It uses ultra-short pulses to break up melanin without heat damage, reducing the risk of rebound hyperpigmentation.
- Fewer sessions needed compared to older Q-switched lasers
- Dual action: Physically and chemically targets pigment
- 60–70% improvement in as few as 6 treatments
Light Chemical Peels
Used alternately with laser treatments, chemical peels help exfoliate and brighten the skin while targeting pigment at different skin depths.
Microneedling with RF & Growth Factors
This technique stimulates healing and pigment regulation, often combined with platelet-derived growth factors (PGF) from your own blood.
Stem Cell Therapy (Advanced Option)
For stubborn or deep melasma, we incorporate stem cell treatments to promote skin regeneration and boost the effects of other therapies.
Here What Our Clients Are Saying
No Cookie-Cutter Treatments—Only What’s Right for You
Your skin is unique, and so is your melasma. That’s why our board-certified physicians develop a customized plan based on your:
- Skin type and hydration
- Stress level, hormone exposure, and lifestyle
- Response to previous treatments
We adjust every step of the way, gathering your feedback after each session to make real-time improvements.
FAQ Related to Melasma
At Wave Plastic Surgery, we use PiQo4 lasers, prescription topicals, and skin analysis to create a personalized plan for melasma management.
No, but with the right multimodal treatments, melasma can be controlled with long-term results.
Yes, our PiQo4 laser uses ultra-short pulses to reduce pigmentation without heat buildup—ideal for melasma-prone skin.
Costs vary depending on treatment type and number of sessions. A personalized consultation helps determine your best path and price point.
Why Choose Wave Plastic Surgery?
- State-of-the-art technology like PiQo4
- Advanced regenerative treatments including growth factors and stem cells
- Diverse patient expertise—we specialize in treating Asian, Latina, and darker skin tones
- Convenient clinics in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Francisco
- Multilingual team available for Mandarin, Korean, Spanish, and more
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Ready to take the first step in treating melasma? Book your diagnostic scan and consultation with our expert team at any of our Southern California clinics.
📍 Visit us in Los Angeles, Costa Mesa, or San Francisco
📞 Call 888-674-3001 or Book Online Here
Quick Take Aways:
- Melasma is a chronic condition influenced by hormones, sun, genetics, diet, and stress.
- There’s no cure, but modern treatments can deliver up to 70% improvement.
- Effective treatment must be multimodal and customized—no one-size-fits-all solutions.
- At Wave Plastic Surgery, we offer the most advanced technology and personalized care in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Francisco.
