Melasma — managed, not cured
Reviewed By
Dr Vishal Patel
BDS Liverpool · MSc Aesthetic & Restorative Dentistry Manchester · GDC 103127 · AACD Member · Invisalign Diamond II Provider · IFAAS (International Fellowship in Advanced Aesthetic Science) · Facial anatomy & cadaver course, Dr Ali Pirayesh, University of Amsterdam · Harley Academy foundation training in injectable aesthetics · IBSA-trained (Profhilo) · NeoStrata-trained (skin peels) · Lynton Lasers trained, incl. ONDA
Last Updated
October 1, 2026
Melasma is a chronic, hormonally-driven pigmentation condition. We manage it across time with integrated protocols and strict sun discipline. We do not promise a cure.
Melasma: managed, not cured
What melasma is
Melasma causes brown or grey-brown patches, usually on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip and chin. It is driven by hormones, such as pregnancy or the contraceptive pill, by sunlight and visible light, and by heat and inflammation. It is more common in women and in medium to darker skin. It is one form of pigmentation, each with its own approach.
What is the best melasma treatment in the UK?
There is no single cure, but melasma can usually be controlled well with a long-term plan:
- Strict daily tinted SPF 50 that also blocks visible light
- Clinical skincare with pigment-regulating ingredients; we use NeoStrata and can supply other professional brands through our pharmacy partner
- Gentle chemical peels (from £160), used selectively
- Prescription treatment from your GP or a dermatologist where appropriate
- Laser only in selected cases, at conservative settings; read why laser can make melasma worse
How much does it cost to treat melasma?
At our clinic, melasma treatment sessions are from £80 and peels from £160, alongside home skincare. We set out the plan and costs in writing. If light-based treatment is ever discussed, IPL vs BBL explains the difference between the two.
Why see us
Dr Vishal Patel is NeoStrata and Lynton Lasers trained, and will be honest about what each option can do. The clinic is at 222 Essex Road, Islington, London N1 3AP, two minutes from Essex Road station and a short ride from Angel, Highbury, Canonbury, Hackney and Stoke Newington. Many patients cycle or use a Lime or Forest e-bike.
Clinically reviewed by Dr Vishal Patel · BDS · MSc Aesthetic & Restorative Dentistry · GDC 103127. Last reviewed 1 October 2026.
Dr Vishal Patel
Clinical lead · Sole aesthetic prescriber · 10 years in facial aesthetics
BDS Liverpool · MSc Aesthetic & Restorative Dentistry (Manchester) · GDC 103127 · International Fellowship in Advanced Aesthetic Science (IFAAS) · Facial anatomy and cadaver course with Dr Ali Pirayesh, University of Amsterdam · Harley Academy · IBSA and NeoStrata trained
We will tell you when a treatment is not the right answer. That honesty is part of the treatment.
Read Dr Patel’s profile →An honest assessment, then a plan.
Consultation — £65
A skin assessment with an honest view of what will help. The fee is redeemable in full against treatment.
Your plan
Sun protection, skincare and, where suitable, peels.
Reviews
Regular reviews to adjust the plan.
Start with a consultation
- £65, redeemable in full against treatment
- Skincare-led, cautious approach
- A written plan
Or call 020 8127 4567 · WhatsApp +44 7974 910222
222 Essex Road, Islington N1 3AP · Mon–Fri, 8am–7pm
For the full picture, including how this compares with the alternatives, see our guide to IPL photofacial.
Melasma and laser: the honest answer
Why laser often makes melasma worse, what to try first, and the few cases where it can help.
Laser pigmentation removal in London
Q-switched laser and Lynton IPL, matched to the type of pigment, with honest advice about melasma.
Chemical peels in London
Medical-grade chemical peels deliver controlled exfoliation at varying depths — superficial to medium — to address pigmentation, texture irregularities, mild acne, fine lines, and uneven skin tone. Layered protocols and multi-session courses produce the meaningful results.
Medical-grade facials in London
Clinical facials built around professional skincare and your skin concern, overseen by Dr Vishal Patel.
Transparent pricing
All prices include consultation, treatment, and aftercare. No hidden fees. 0% APR finance available on plans over 12 or 24 months.
Clear prices, set out before you start.
Redeemable in full against treatment
Per session, selected cases
Per peel
Included
- Skin assessment
- A written plan
Quoted separately
- Skincare products, priced separately
0% APR finance over 12 months via Tabeo, subject to status.
FAQ
If your question isn't here, call reception on +442081274567 or book a free discovery call.
View all FAQs →How long do skin peel results last?
A single peel brightens skin for a few weeks. A course, with good home care and daily SPF, gives longer-lasting improvement.
What is the most effective treatment for melasma?
A combination of strict sun protection, clinical skincare and gentle peels, with prescription treatment where appropriate.
Can melasma be cured?
Not permanently, but it can usually be controlled well with a long-term plan.
How much does melasma laser treatment cost in the UK?
At Dental & Wellness London, melasma treatment is from £80 per session, used only in selected cases.
