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Melasma Guide · BGC

Melasma Treatment in BGC: The Honest Guide

Melasma is one of the most mismanaged skin conditions in the Philippines. Here's what BGC dermatologists actually use — and what won't work long-term without daily SPF.

Sun protection is non-negotiable
Evidence-based protocols
Updated April 2026

Critical: Melasma Cannot Be "Cured" Without Sun Protection

No BGC skin clinic can permanently remove melasma. It's a chronic condition triggered by UV, heat, and hormones. Any treatment — laser, peel, or topical — will fail within weeks if you don't wear SPF 50+ every day. The most honest BGC dermatologists say this upfront. Any clinic that promises permanent melasma removal without discussing sun protection is a red flag.

BGC Melasma Protocol: The Multi-Modal Approach

1
Foundation

Sun Protection (Daily — Non-Negotiable)

SPF 50+ broad-spectrum (PA++++) every morning. Reapply every 2 hours outdoors. Use physical (zinc oxide) or combination sunscreen. This alone can prevent melasma from darkening — without it, all other treatments fail.

2
Weeks 1–12

Prescription Topicals (Nights)

Physician-prescribed: hydroquinone 4% (main depigmenter), tretinoin 0.025–0.05% (cell turnover), and azelaic acid 15–20% or tranexamic acid 5% (alternative to hydroquinone for sensitive skin). Never use hydroquinone without physician supervision.

3
Month 2–6

Pico Laser Toning (In-Clinic)

Conservative low-fluence pico laser every 2–4 weeks. Breaks down melanin clusters. Key: start conservative — aggressive settings cause melasma rebound. Test patch recommended on first session.

4
Monthly maintenance

Brightening Chemical Peels

Tranexamic acid peels, kojic acid combination peels, or glycolic acid (10–30%). Monthly maintenance. Enhances topical treatment effectiveness. Never do aggressive peels on active melasma without physician supervision.

5
Months 2–6

Oral Tranexamic Acid (Optional)

Prescription-only oral tranexamic acid (250mg twice daily) has emerging evidence for melasma. Available from BGC dermatologists. Results in 8–12 weeks. Not suitable for patients with clotting disorders.

Melasma Treatment Prices in BGC 2026

Treatment
Price BGC
Notes
Dermatologist Consultation
₱1,500–₱3,500
Includes skin analysis + treatment plan
Prescription Topicals
₱2,000–₱4,000/mo
Hydroquinone + tretinoin + supporting agents
Pico Laser Toning
₱6,000–₱15,000
6–8 sessions; conservative protocol
Tranexamic Acid Peel
₱3,000–₱6,000
Monthly maintenance peels
Oral Tranexamic Acid
₱1,500–₱3,000/mo
Prescription; physician monitoring required
Full-Year Protocol Total
₱50,000–₱120,000
Including maintenance and topicals

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