Hello. I am new to this forum and am desperate. I got melasma from birth control pills. I stop taking them, but the melasma wouldn't go away. I wouldn't mind it if I could hide it, but it was on my upperlip. I looked like I have a mustache. I went to a doctor that told me about a new laser that was FDA approved for melasma and for asian skin. I did research and tried it. It got worse. I hyperpigmented from inflammation. Now I look like I have a goatee. I have tried hydroquinone and retin-a's. Which have been clogging my pores like crazy. They have not been helping either. I honestly believe it is getting darker. Can anyone suggest something? Thanks for your time....

Hello. I am new to this forum and am desperate. I got melasma from birth control pills. I stop taking them, but the melasma wouldn't go away. I wouldn't mind it if I could hide it, but it was on my upperlip. I looked like I have a mustache. I went to a doctor that told me about a new laser that was FDA approved for melasma and for asian skin. I did research and tried it. It got worse. I hyperpigmented from inflammation. Now I look like I have a goatee. I have tried hydroquinone and retin-a's. Which have been clogging my pores like crazy. They have not been helping either. I honestly believe it is getting darker. Can anyone suggest something? Thanks for your time....

madison - have you tried the 4% hydroquinine or are you just using something over the counter? I get the hormonal melasma over the lip, but 3 months of Obagi Clear 4% zapped that. I also know that if I step into the sun with no protection, it would be back in a flash, so I carrie a small chapstick type tube of spf in my purse if I'm to be out all day at a Summer/sunny event.

I also like the Pigment of Your Imagination by Philosophy that Dr. Baumann recommends. It's heavier/greasier, but I noticed some lightening of sun spots when I started using it.

Hi! I see others with the same problem frequently so you are not alone. Laser is only a temporary solution- melasma ALWAYS comes back. I discuss melasma in depth in my book. I recommend daily sunscreen (a good broad spectrum one) and a prescription hydroquinone. The products and brands that are right for you can be found in my book. Don't despair- the book was written to help people just like yourself!

Dr. Baumann