Melasma in Lebanon: what works, and what to avoid
Brown patches on the cheeks, forehead or upper lip that return every summer. Melasma is common in Lebanon, it is long-term, and it can be controlled carefully.
What melasma is
Melasma, called الكلف in Arabic, is a pigment condition that shows as symmetrical brown or grey-brown patches, usually on the cheeks, forehead, nose and upper lip. It is more common in women and in medium skin tones.
What drives it
- Sun, and in Lebanon that means most of the year.
- Heat, including kitchens, hot rooms and saunas.
- Hormones: pregnancy, the contraceptive pill and hormone therapy.
- Genetics: it often runs in families.
What works
Daily broad-spectrum sunscreen, reapplied, ideally a tinted one, is the foundation. Pigment-calming skincare, gentle peels and carefully chosen treatments can then lighten the patches over months.
Melasma is controlled rather than cured, and it can return with sun and heat, so maintenance is part of the plan.
What to avoid
Strong heat and aggressive light or laser treatments can make melasma darker. Bleaching creams bought without supervision can damage the skin. That is why the plan should be cautious and doctor-led.
Dr. Douaihy examines the pigment first, because not every brown patch is melasma, and plans the gentlest effective approach.
Quick answers
Can melasma be cured?
It is usually controlled rather than cured. With sun protection and careful treatment it can lighten a lot, but sun, heat and hormones can bring it back.
Does IPL or laser treat melasma?
Light and heat can make melasma worse, so they are used with great caution, if at all. A gentler plan usually comes first.
Does pregnancy cause melasma?
Pregnancy hormones are a common trigger. It sometimes fades after pregnancy, and treatment is usually planned afterwards.
What is the best sunscreen for melasma?
A broad-spectrum, high-protection sunscreen, ideally tinted, because visible light can also darken melasma. Reapply during the day.
Start with the “Prima Optima” Consultation
Dr. Douaihy examines you, writes your plan and gives you the exact price before anything is done. Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., in Dbayeh.
This page is general information from the clinic, not a diagnosis or a medical prescription. Suitability, dose and aftercare are decided by Dr. Douaihy after examining you.
