Melasma Treatment Cost in India

Melasma treatment in India typically ranges from $500 to $6,000 USD, depending on the hospital, city, and type of procedure.

Melasma causes brown or grey-brown patches, usually on the face. It is harmless but can be persistent. Cost depends on:

• Prescription creams: such as hydroquinone, or combination creams.
• Tranexamic acid: by mouth or on the skin for harder-to-treat melasma.
• Procedures: chemical peels, microneedling or laser.
• Duration: results usually take months, with ongoing sun protection.

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) lists sunlight, birth control pills, pregnancy, stress and some medicines as triggers. Sun protection is central:

• Broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30+: applied throughout the day.
• Tinted sunscreen with iron oxide: often recommended, and helps those who dislike a white cast.
• Hat and shade: also important.
• Removing triggers: melasma may fade after pregnancy or stopping a medicine; talk to your doctor before stopping prescribed medicines.

The AAD describes:

• Hydroquinone: a common prescription treatment.
• Triple combination cream: tretinoin, a mild corticosteroid and hydroquinone.
• Gentler options: azelaic acid, kojic acid or vitamin C.
• Tranexamic acid: for hard-to-treat melasma; tell your dermatologist if you have had a blood clot.
• Procedures: peels, microneedling, laser or light treatments, ideally performed by a dermatologist.

The AAD notes melasma can last for years and may return. Results usually take 3 to 12 months.

• Darker skin types: procedures need careful selection to avoid worsening pigmentation.
• Maintenance: continued sun protection is the main way to prevent recurrence.
• Visit plan: an assessment and treatment plan can start in India and continue at home.