Understanding Melasma and PIH

Melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) are two common skin conditions that affect people of all skin tones, but especially those with medium to darker complexions. These conditions cause dark spots or patches on the skin, usually on the face. While pigmentation issues are not life-threatening, they can deeply impact a person’s self-esteem and confidence.

Melasma is often triggered by sun exposure, hormones (such as pregnancy or birth control), and genetics. PIH, on the other hand, is usually caused by skin trauma like acne, burns, or even certain cosmetic procedures. These dark marks can linger long after the initial injury has healed.

Why Treating Melasma and PIH Is Tricky

Hyperpigmentation is not one-size-fits-all. Treating melasma and PIH requires a careful balance of science, skin biology, and personalized care. Inflammation can make matters worse if treatments are too aggressive. That’s why some products and procedures actually worsen pigmentation instead of helping to fade it.

For patients with deeper skin tones, this fear is even greater. The wrong laser or skincare product can trigger more melanin production, intensifying dark spots rather than reducing them. Safer, gentle treatments that protect the skin barrier are the key.

Nuveau’s Tailored Approach to Complexion Correction

At Nuveau, we understand that every skin story is different. That’s why we develop a customized plan for each client, starting with an in-depth consultation and digital skin analysis. Instead of a one-size-fits-all solution, our licensed specialists work with you to identify the root of the pigmentation and build a path toward healthy, even-toned skin.

Nuveau follows a three-phase treatment principle: preparation, intervention, and maintenance.

1. Preparing the Skin

Before any advanced treatments begin, we prepare the skin using medical-grade skincare designed to calm inflammation and bring the skin into balance. Our skincare recommendations generally include:

• Gentle cleansers that maintain the pH integrity
• Topical antioxidants to reduce free radicals
• Hydrating serums to support healing
• Broad-spectrum SPF to prevent further pigmentation

This phase may last 2–4 weeks depending on your skin’s needs. By calming the skin and strengthening its barrier first, we minimize possible complications from advanced treatments.

2. Targeted Intervention Using Advanced Technology

After proper preparation, the next phase focuses on reducing excess melanin safely and effectively. At Nuveau, we employ several advanced, science-backed methods to target melasma and PIH without harming the skin.

Chemical Peels

Our light-to-medium strength chemical peels contain a balanced blend of acids like lactic, mandelic, and tranexamic acid. These peels gently speed up cell turnover while calming inflammation—a method especially ideal for hyperpigmentation caused by acne or sun damage.

Laser and Light Therapy

Nuveau uses picosecond laser technology, including the PICO Genesis platform, to safely break down pigmentation. These lasers work in ultra-short pulses, fragmenting melanin without creating heat. That means they’re safer for diverse skin types and require little downtime.

We also may suggest Low-Level-Light Therapy (LLLT) as a supportive tool. It helps reduce inflammation and promote even healing after active treatments.

Topical Compounding

For stubborn melasma, we offer physician-compounded topicals customized to your unique pigmentation pattern. These blends often include:

• Tranexamic acid
• Kojic acid
• Azelaic acid
• Niacinamide

Each formula is carefully adjusted based on skin sensitivity to maximize results while protecting the skin's integrity.

3. Maintenance and Prevention

The maintenance stage is just as important as any laser or peel. Pigmentation issues can return if triggers like sun exposure or inflammation aren’t controlled. That’s why we guide each client through creating a long-term home routine that includes:

• Gentle, brightening cleansers
• Daily SPF of at least 50
• Hydration-promoting serums and creams

Many clients visit Nuveau quarterly for low-level maintenance treatments like enzyme facials or LED therapy to keep their complexions clear and even.

Why Diversity in Treatment Matters

Too many skin clinics fail to factor skin tone and genetic background into their treatment protocols. At Nuveau, we specialize in textured and richly pigmented skin. Whether your skin caramel, bronze, olive, or ebony, we have diagnostic tools and treatment strategies designed just for you.

We use the Fitzpatrick Skin Typing System during consultations to assess sun response levels and melanin activity—an essential step when treating conditions like PIH and melasma that can react poorly to stress or overexposure.

Treatments That Avoid Hydroquinone Dependency

Many clinics and over-the-counter routines rely too heavily on hydroquinone—a potent bleaching agent—to suppress pigmentation. Long-term use, especially without supervision, leads to rebound pigmentation or worse, permanent skin damage.

At Nuveau, we avoid long-term hydroquinone treatments. Instead, we combine shorter hydroquinone cycles with botanical, peptide-based, and acid-based solutions. This approach makes your results more sustainable and less risky.

Technology Meets Education

At Nuveau, we believe empowering our patients with knowledge is just as vital as receiving treatment. During each visit, we educate you on lifestyle factors influencing pigmentation such as:

• Hormonal birth control
• Overexposure to blue light (from screens)
• Incorrect product layering
• Heat exposure (saunas, hot showers, etc.)

Understanding skin triggers is key to lasting results. That’s why your time at Nuveau becomes a journey—not just a treatment.

Real Results, Safely Achieved

Our patients trust us to be transparent and effective. Whether you’re battling a patch of melasma after pregnancy or stubborn acne marks left over from teen years, we’ve seen it—and we’ve safely treated it. Most patients begin seeing noticeable improvement in as little as three sessions, with significant reduction visible by week 12 depending on severity.

Book Your Consultation Today

Your skin tells a story—and you deserve to feel confident in every chapter. If you’re ready to treat melasma or PIH safely and effectively, the expert team at Nuveau is here to help. Book your personalized consultation today and take the first step toward a radiant, even complexion.