Melasma

Achieve a balanced, even look with personalised options to manage melasma. Begin your journey towards healthier-looking skin.
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What is Melasma?

Melasma is characterised by light to dark brown or blue-gray patches that often appear on the cheeks, upper lip, forehead, and occasionally on the arms, neck, and back. These patches tend to darken during summer and lighten in winter. The condition affects 15-50% of pregnant women and up to 33% of the general population, predominantly women aged 20-40. Individuals with darker skin tones and a family history of melasma are at a higher risk.

Bring clarity to your skin with thoughtful, personalised care.

How does Melasma works?

Melasma is characterised by light to dark brown or blue-gray patches that often appear on the cheeks, upper lip, forehead, and occasionally on the arms, neck, and back. These patches tend to darken during summer and lighten in winter. The condition affects 15-50% of pregnant women and up to 33% of the general population, predominantly women aged 20-40. Individuals with darker skin tones and a family history of melasma are at a higher risk.

What are the Symptoms and Causes of Melasma?

Melasma appears as light brown, dark brown, or bluish patches, often on the cheeks, nose, forehead, and upper lip. These patches may also show up on the jawline, neck, or upper arms, sometimes becoming red or inflamed.

Causes of Melasma

Hormonal Changes

Fluctuations during pregnancy, use of oral contraceptives, or other hormonal shifts can overstimulate melanin production.

Sun Exposure

Prolonged exposure to UV rays stimulates melanin, which can cause and worsen dark patches on the skin.

Genetics

A family history of melasma increases the likelihood of developing the condition due to inherited skin traits.

Medications

Certain drugs, including antiseizure medications, can heighten sensitivity to sunlight, contributing to melasma development.

Environmental Factors

Frequent exposure to LED screens, harsh makeup products, and excessive sunlight can aggravate melasma or make it more prominent.

Types of Melasma

Epidermal Melasma
Epidermal Melasma

Affects the outer layer of skin, appearing as darker brown patches.

Dermal Melasma
Dermal Melasma

Darker, bluish spots that occur deeper within the skin layer.

Mixed Melasma
Mixed Melasma

Combines both surface and deeper pigmentation, presenting varied tones.

Get Started on Your Journey to Healthy Skin

Diagnosis & Tests

To diagnose melasma, our team at Anna Hoo Clinic will conduct a thorough examination of your skin, often using a Wood’s lamp to observe the skin’s pigmentation.

If needed, we may perform a biopsy to rule out other skin conditions. This step is essential for ensuring an accurate diagnosis and developing a tailored treatment plan.

How is Melasma Treated

While there is no permanent cure, melasma can be effectively managed with:

  • Topical Medications: Hydroquinone, azelaic acid, and tretinoin.
  • Oral Supplements: Tranexamic acid, Vitamin D3, and Vitamin C.
  • Procedures: Chemical peels, laser treatments, and Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy.
  • Lifestyle Adjustments: Daily sunscreen (SPF 30-50) and avoiding sun exposure.

Aesthetic procedures offer safe and targeted solutions to address pigmentation concerns, providing a pathway to

Multifrax

The MultiFrax laser provides a non-invasive solution to improve skin tone, reduce pigmentation, and enhance skin texture. This treatment delivers results with minimal recovery time, making it suitable for those seeking a healthier complexion.
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Sylfirm

Sylfirm is a non-invasive treatment designed to target abnormal blood vessels and tissue membranes to improve skin concerns. Using RP (repeated ultra-short pulses) technology, Sylfirm helps address issues such as melasma, skin redness, acne scars, and more. It offers a quick treatment with minimal discomfort and no downtime, making it a convenient option for those looking to enhance their skin’s appearance.
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Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment

At Anna Hoo Clinic, the Fractional CO2 Laser Treatment provides a precise method for skin resurfacing. This treatment is effective for addressing concerns such as wrinkles, fine lines, sun damage, and acne scars, helping to enhance skin texture and tone. It is a versatile option for those seeking effective skin rejuvenation.
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Clarity by Lutronic

Clarity is a versatile laser treatment designed to address a variety of skin concerns, from permanent hair reduction to improving skin pigmentation and redness. This laser technology is suitable for all skin types, offering effective and tailored solutions with minimal discomfort and downtime.
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PicoPlus Laser Treatment

At Anna Hoo Clinic, PicoPlus Laser Treatment offers a non-invasive approach to enhancing your skin’s appearance. This treatment is ideal for individuals looking to address pigmentation, wrinkles, acne scars, and even remove unwanted tattoos effectively and safely.
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Dual Yellow Laser Treatment

At Anna Hoo Clinic, the Dual Yellow Laser Treatment offers an effective way to tackle common skin concerns like acne, vascular lesions, melasma, and redness. This gentle, non-invasive treatment is designed to rejuvenate your skin with minimal discomfort and downtime, making it an ideal choice for those looking to refresh and renew their complexion without the hassle.
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Fotona STARFORMER IntimaWave

Fotona STARFORMER IntimaWave is a non-invasive treatment that strengthens and tones the pelvic floor muscles. Using advanced HITS™ technology, it provides a solution for urinary incontinence by stimulating muscles to restore their function.
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Polynucleotide Treatment

Polynucleotide treatment uses purified DNA molecules to support natural skin repair, targeting concerns like fine lines, dryness, and skin laxity. This non-invasive method helps improve skin hydration, texture, and elasticity, offering a refreshed look with minimal recovery time.
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Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

PRP therapy leverages your body’s natural healing process to rejuvenate and improve skin health. By using your own blood, PRP is a safe and natural method for addressing various skin concerns, with minimal risk of allergies or infections. This treatment can help improve skin texture, reduce fine lines, diminish acne scars, and support hair regrowth.
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Hyaluronic Acid Fillers

Restore facial volume and smooth out wrinkles with Hyaluronic Acid Fillers. This minimally invasive treatment uses naturally occurring hyaluronic acid to hydrate, plump, and rejuvenate the skin. With results lasting from 1 to 3 years, it's an effective solution for enhancing facial contours, reducing deep lines, and giving you a more youthful appearance.
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Prevention

Sunscreen
Sunscreen

Apply daily to protect against UV rays.

Gentle skincare routines
Gentle skincare routines

Use non-irritating products to maintain healthy skin.

Avoiding known triggers
Avoiding known triggers

Minimise exposure to harsh sunlight and irritating products.

When to call a doctor

If melasma patches darken, spread, or show signs of redness and irritation, it is important to consult a doctor. A professional evaluation can help rule out other conditions and ensure the best treatment plan for your skin’s health.

At Anna Hoo Clinic, we understand how melasma can affect your confidence and daily life. While the condition is harmless, its chronic nature and visibility can cause emotional distress. Our team is dedicated to offering personalised care, helping you navigate treatment options and preventive strategies with compassion and expertise.

By addressing melasma early and adopting effective management approaches, you can achieve healthier-looking skin and regain confidence in your appearance. Let us guide you through your journey with tailored treatments and professional support.

Let confidence come naturally, starting with your skin.

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Meet Our Doctors

Our dedicated doctors are here to guide you through every step of your treatment, ensuring it is tailored to your individual needs. Your care is our primary focus, and we strive to provide a supportive and personalised experience throughout your journey with us.

Dr. Anna Hoo (MD)

Medical Director
Certified Aesthetic Practitioner

Dr. Anna Hoo, founder and medical director of the Anna Hoo Clinic, is a leader in medical wellness and aesthetic management. Her expertise encompasses injectables, combination therapy, and medical lasers, all while remaining dedicated to providing exceptional care and achieving outstanding results for her patients.

Dr. William Hoo (MD)

Certified Medical Aesthetic Practitioner

Dr. William Hoo is the leading aesthetic physician at the Anna Hoo Clinic in Bangsar, focusing on medical wellness, facial aesthetics, energy-based devices, and injectables. His keen eye for detail and artistry allows him to effectively enhance his patients' natural beauty.

Dr. Ian Tan (MD)

Certified Medical Aesthetic Practitioner

Dr. Ian Tan is the leading aesthetic physician at the Anna Hoo Clinic in Petaling Jaya, specialising in body sculpting, fat reduction, and skin tightening. He offers innovative solutions that enhance body contours and boost confidence.

Dr. Joyce Hii (MD)

Certified Aesthetic Practitioner

Dr. Joyce Hii established herself in non-surgical facial rejuvenation and medical wellness treatments. With a holistic approach to patient care, she seamlessly integrates wellness and aesthetic therapies to deliver transformative results.

Dr. Elaine Koh (MD)

Medical Doctor

Dr. Elaine earned her medical degree from International Medical University in 2015. Her extensive experience in mental health complements her expertise in physical wellness, allowing her to take a holistic approach to patient care.

Why Choose Anna Hoo Clinic

Personalised Care and Attention

We understand that each patient is unique. Our treatments are tailored to meet your personal needs, ensuring effective and satisfying outcomes.

Advanced Facilities

We use up-to-date technology and equipment to ensure effective treatments. Our facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and safe environment for all procedures.

Qualified and Certified Professionals

Our team consists of skilled and licensed doctors dedicated to providing excellent care. With years of practice in the field, you can trust that you are in knowledgeable hands.

Safe and Effective Treatments

Your safety is our priority. We follow strict protocols to ensure that all treatments are safe and effective. Our methods are scientifically validated and supported by research.

Reliable and Consistent Results

We use evidence-based treatments to ensure reliable and consistent results. You can expect methods that are scientifically proven to deliver the desired outcomes.

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    What Our Clients Say About Us

    Dr. Anna is a very kind and understanding doctor, never judgmental. She put patients' need above hers. Dr. Ian is very gentle when administrating treatments for patients. The staffs are very accommodating. The place here is very clean and calm musics are played. There are nutritionists here too. This clinic offer not only aesthetic treatments, but also evaluate patients' dietary needs and suggest positive alteration to improve patients' wellbeing.

    Cherrilynn Coleann

    Me and family have been with Dr. anna for 9 years. She is a Good doctor and professional doctor. She has build my confidence and wellbeing. The clinic not only offering aesthetic service but also holistic wellness i.e Hormone and allergy test. I am a happy and beautiful inside and out now. Thank you Doctors and the whole team. 😊

    Elaine Kok

    Clean and comfortable environment in waiting area and treatment room. Nice music while waiting for doctor. Staffs here are friendly and makes me feel welcomed. Very satisfied with my experience in this clinic.

    Dawn Ng

    Dr. Anna, Kah Hong and the team has been providing good service and professional advice regarding our body health needs. All the staff are very friendly too. Thanks for the excellent service!

    Ong J

    I have been with Anna Hoo Clinic for more than 10 years. Dr. Anna is a very passionate and professional Doctor. I have seen so much improvement in my well-being as well as my skin. Her skill was excellent. For those who is in search of a professional aesthetic doctor or to improve your wellness, this is the place. Highly recommended 😘

    Saydear Teoh

    Thanks to Dr.Anna and team for all your professional advise and guidance. We are happy to follow Dr.Anna for the passed 5 years.

    Chong Saint Lee

    FAQs

    Melasma is often triggered by hormonal changes, such as pregnancy or oral contraceptive use, and by sun exposure, which stimulates melanin production.

    While melasma can be managed and its appearance reduced, there is no guaranteed permanent cure. Recurrence is common, especially with ongoing sun exposure or hormonal changes.

    No, melasma is not contagious. It’s caused by internal and environmental factors, not by bacteria or viruses.

    Melasma is a benign condition and not associated with skin cancer. However, any unusual or changing skin discolorations should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

    Women, particularly those with darker skin tones or a family history of the condition, are at higher risk. Hormonal changes during pregnancy and certain medications can also increase susceptibility.

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