Cosmelan® & Dermamelan®
Melasma is a chronic pigmentary disorder known to be sensitive to sunlight and heat. Cosmelan® and Dermamelan® are doctor-led depigmentation treatments that combine an intensive in-clinic procedure with a structured homecare programme. These treatments help reduce the appearance of pigmentation and reduce melanin production over time, while avoiding the use of heat that may contribute to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in susceptible individuals.
The Cosmelan® Essentials
Best For
Mild to moderate melasma, sun-induced pigmentation and uneven skin tone
Procedure Duration
30 minutes
Recommended Sessions
1 in-clinic treatment with homecare regimen
Downtime
Approximately 2–4 weeks
The Dermamelan® Essentials
Best For
Moderate to severe melasma, recurrent melasma and more resistant pigmentation
Procedure Duration
30 minutes
Recommended Sessions
1 in-clinic treatment with homecare regimen
Downtime
Approximately 2–6 weeks
The Science Behind Pigmentation
What Causes Pigmentation?
Skin colour is determined by melanin, a natural pigment produced by specialised skin cells called melanocytes.
Melanin production may increase in response to:
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Sun exposure
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Visible light
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Heat
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Hormonal influences
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Inflammation
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Certain medications
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Genetic predisposition
When excess melanin is produced or distributed unevenly, pigmentation becomes visible.
Why Is Melasma Different From Other Pigmentation?
Not all pigmentation behaves in the same way. Pigment such as freckles and sun spots consists primarily of accumulated pigment within the skin and may respond well to treatments that target pigment directly.
Melasma is fundamentally different because it is a disorder of dysregulated melanocyte activity rather than simply excess pigment within the skin.
Melanocytes in individuals with melasma are more biologically active and remain highly responsive to multiple environmental and hormonal triggers. Even after visible pigment has been reduced, these cells may continue producing excess melanin, contributing to recurrence.
How Do Cosmelan® And Dermamelan® Work?
The formulations contain a combination of active ingredients that act on multiple stages of melanin production while encouraging gradual skin renewal.
As pigmentation develops over time, improvement occurs progressively. Consistent homecare and sun protection are important components of both treatment programmes.
The Science Behind Cosmelan® & Dermamelan®
Unlike conventional depigmenting treatments that focus on a single pathway, Cosmelan® and Dermamelan® utilise multiple active ingredients to target different stages of pigmentation formation.
Cosmelan and dermamelan target the following parts of the pathway:
Cosmelan® vs Dermamelan®:
What's The Difference?
Although the treatment process is similar, Cosmelan® and Dermamelan® differ in their intended clinical use.
Dermamelan® contains a higher concentration of selected active ingredients and is generally reserved for more challenging pigmentary disorders. As a result, it is associated with a longer recovery period and requires closer follow-up. We recommend a consultation with a medical professional to identify a treatment plan suitable for you.
What Skin Conditions May Be Treated?
Depending on individual assessment, these programmes may be incorporated into the management of:
Melasma
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Sun spots
Solar lentigines
Uneven skin tone
Diffuse facial pigmentation
Not all pigmentary disorders are suitable for depigmentation programmes. In some cases, other treatments such as medical therapy, topicals or lasers may be more appropriate.
What They Do Not Do:
Limitations of Cosmelan® and Dermamelan®
It's equally important to understand that Cosmelan and Dermamelan do not eliminate the triggers that cause melasma.
Can Cosmelan® And Dermamelan® Be Combined With Other Treatments?
Pigmentation management often benefits from a personalised combination approach.
Synergistic Combinations:
Lasers
Laser Treatments may be incorporated into selected treatment plans for appropriate pigmentary disorders once the skin barrier has recovered.
Treatment sequencing is individualised according to your skin condition.
What Is The Downtime?
Recovery varies according to the treatment selected and individual healing response.
Common Side Effects:
Redness
Common during the first 2 weeks.
Tightness
The skin may feel dry or tight.
Peeling
Peeling and flaking are expected as the skin renews.
Dryness
Temporary dryness is common.
Sensitivity
Increased sensitivity to skincare products and sunlight may occur during recovery.
These effects generally improve gradually during the healing process.
What Is The Aftercare Required?
Successful treatment depends not only on the in-clinic procedure but also on careful homecare
Use all prescribed products according to your doctor's instructions.
Daily Sun Protection
Broad-spectrum sunscreen should be applied daily and sun avoidance should be practised whenever possible.
Gentle Skincare
Avoid potentially irritating skincare products unless advised otherwise.
Avoid Excessive Heat
Avoid excessive heat, including saunas and prolonged sun exposure, during recovery.
Why Is Long-Term Management Important?
Melasma is generally considered a chronic condition rather than a one-time event.
Although treatment can significantly improve the appearance of pigmentation, long-term success depends on reducing the factors that continue to stimulate melanocytes.
A comprehensive management programme commonly includes:
This is why Cosmelan® and Dermamelan® are often incorporated into long-term melasma management programmes. Rather than relying solely on the removal of existing pigment, these treatments aim to support the regulation of multiple biological pathways involved in ongoing pigment production.
What to Expect During Your Journey
02
The Treatment
A depigmentation mask is applied in the clinic and remains on the skin for a prescribed period before being removed at home according to your personalised instructions.
04
Homecare Phase
The prescribed homecare products are introduced according to a structured treatment schedule to support ongoing pigmentation management.
01
The Consultation
03
Early Recovery
05
Long-Term Maintenance
Your doctor will assess your pigmentation pattern, medical history and skin type before recommending the most appropriate treatment programme.
Temporary redness, peeling and dryness are expected during the initial healing phase.
Because pigmentary disorders such as melasma may recur, ongoing sun protection and maintenance skincare remain important after completion of the treatment programme.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Cosmelan® & Dermamelan®
*This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. We recommend a clinical consultation for a plan tailored to your unique anatomy.*
