Tiếng ViệtMixed melasma is a common skin condition that occurs when both patchy and deep-seated melasma coexist in the same area of skin, resulting in dark, uneven skin that is difficult to treat. This HBIO Clinic article will analyze in detail the causes of mixed melasma and introduce effective and safe solutions to help you regain bright, smooth, and even-toned skin.
What is mixed melasma? What causes it?
Melasma is generally divided into three main groups: patchy melasma, deep melasma, and mixed melasma. Mixed melasma is a combination of the other two types, appearing both on the skin’s surface and penetrating deep into the dermis.
This type of melasma is commonly found around the eyes, forehead, cheeks, and nose, and is considered the most difficult to treat because the melasma roots are located in multiple layers of the skin.
Mixed melasma is more common in women after age 30 – a time when skin begins to age and hormone levels decline.
There are many causes of mixed melasma, the most common of which include:
Genetics: If either parent has melasma, especially mixed melasma, their children have a very high risk of developing this condition, approximately 20–70%.
Hormonal imbalance: Hormonal changes cause excessive melanin production, especially when estrogen levels decrease. This is common in pregnant women, postpartum women, and during perimenopause and menopause.
Sun exposure: UV rays are a strong stimulus for melanocyte cells to produce melanin, causing melasma patches to darken and spread if the skin is not properly protected.
Prolonged stress: Stress increases cortisol, leading to hormonal imbalances and weakening the skin. Over time, melasma spots become darker and harder to control.
Abuse of low-quality cosmetics: Using products of unknown origin containing abrasive chemicals damages the skin, making it easier for mixed melasma to form.
Side effects of medication: Some antibiotics or birth control pills used long-term can stimulate hyperpigmentation.
Other causes: Mixed melasma can also develop due to impaired liver function, natural aging, or unhealthy lifestyle and eating habits.
Current methods for treating mixed melasma
Below are the most commonly used methods for treating mixed melasma:
1. Treating mixed melasma with laser technology
How it works: High-intensity laser beams selectively target the pigmented areas, breaking down melanin into smaller particles for the body to eliminate. Simultaneously, it stimulates collagen production, resulting in brighter and firmer skin.
Cost: 1,500,000 – 3,000,000 VND/session (depending on the severity of pigmentation and the laser technology used).
Advantages:
- Fast results, visible after 1–2 weeks.
- Deep penetration, suitable for mixed pigmentation with roots located in multiple layers.
- Evens skin tone, improves pores and smoothness.
Disadvantages:
- May cause slight redness after treatment.
- Requires a course of 4–6 sessions for optimal results.
- Not suitable for inflamed or overly sensitive skin.
2. Biological skin peel for mixed pigmentation
How it works: It uses organic acids or biological compounds to remove old keratin layers, stimulate new cell regeneration, and reduce melanin pigmentation.
Cost: 500,000 – 1,500,000 VND/session.
Advantages:
- Quickly brightens skin, helps fade mild to moderate mixed melasma.
- Improves skin surface, reduces dark spots and dullness.
- Short recovery time.
Disadvantages:
- Does not address deep-seated melasma without combining it with other technologies.
- May peel 2-3 days after the peel.
3. Microneedling treatment for mixed pigmentation
How it works: Creates micro-injuries to stimulate skin tissue regeneration, promoting pigment removal and new cell growth.
Cost: 1,200,000 – 2,000,000 VND/session.
Advantages:
- Improves pigmentation, scars, and pores simultaneously.
- Increases absorption of anti-melasma serums.
- Suitable for moderate mixed melasma.
Disadvantages:
- Requires avoiding water for 24 hours.
- Skin may be red for 1-2 days.
- Not suitable for weak, thin, or easily irritated skin.
4. PRP therapy for mixed melasma
How it works: It uses the client’s own platelet-rich plasma to stimulate tissue regeneration, repair damaged cells, and brighten the skin.
Cost: 1,500,000 – 3,000,000 VND/session.
Advantages:
- Absolutely safe as it uses the body’s own cells.
- Fades dark spots, brightens skin, and rejuvenates.
- Supports healthier skin after laser or microneedling treatments.
Disadvantages:
- Results take time to see.
- Not recommended for people with hemophilia.
5. Electrophoresis of mixed nutrients for treating melasma
How it works: Using ionizing current to deliver vitamin C, HA, stem cells, or dark spot treatment serums deep into the skin, helping to fade melanin.
Cost: 300,000 – 800,000 VND/session.
Advantages:
- Painless and non-invasive.
- Suitable for maintenance after high-tech treatments.
- Helps skin become brighter, healthier, more even-toned, and more hydrated.
Disadvantages:
- Not strong enough to treat severe mixed melasma.
- Requires regular maintenance.
Complete treatment for mixed melasma at Hbio Clinic
Hbio Clinic is one of the reputable addresses for treating skin pigmentation problems, especially mixed melasma – a complex form of melasma that spreads easily and is difficult to treat without a specialized treatment plan. With a modern technology system and a team of experienced doctors, Hbio Clinic provides a comprehensive, safe, and highly sustainable melasma treatment solution.
Advantages and Benefits of Treating Mixed Melasma at Hbio Clinic:
Advanced Treatment Technology: Hbio Clinic utilizes Picosure Laser, Laser Toning, Biological Peel, and Mesotherapy to deeply target melasma, break down melanin pigments, and promote skin regeneration while ensuring safety.
Personalized Treatment Plan: Each client receives a detailed skin examination and analysis to create a treatment plan tailored to the severity of their mixed melasma, optimizing effectiveness and minimizing risks.
- Rapid Improvement: After a few treatment sessions, melasma pigmentation fades, the skin surface becomes brighter and more even, and skin structure improves without requiring a long downtime.
- Highly Qualified Doctors: Treatment steps are performed according to medical standards, ensuring safety and lasting results.
- Post-Treatment Support: Clients are guided on home skincare routines and advised on suitable products to maintain effectiveness and prevent melasma recurrence.
- Mixed melasma is a complex condition requiring intensive treatment to achieve optimal results. At Hbio Clinic, clients receive thorough examinations and personalized treatment plans, combining modern technology to significantly improve skin pigmentation and maintain long-lasting results.
- If you are experiencing mixed melasma or long-standing melasma and need a medically approved treatment solution, please contact Hbio Clinic for consultation and a suitable treatment plan. Hbio Clinic currently offers consultations at 24 Truong Han Sieu Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi.
Mixed melasma is a complex skin condition requiring a combination of modern technology and proper skincare. Depending on the severity and cause, you can apply methods ranging from home care to intensive treatments at reputable facilities to achieve long-lasting results. Regular dermatological check-ups and personalized treatment plans will help control melasma, prevent recurrence, and maintain healthy, even-toned skin.
Dr. Thai Nguyen – Founder and Medical Director of HBIO Clinic. As an expert in aesthetic dermatology, she regularly shares in-depth knowledge and practical experience to provide valuable and insightful information for those seeking better skin health.