Pigmentation and Melasma Treatment in Abu Dhabi

Dark patches, uneven tone and melasma are among the most common reasons patients see a dermatologist in the Gulf — and among the most commonly mistreated. Pigmentation responds well to the right treatment and badly to the wrong one. Getting the diagnosis right comes first.

At Central Clinic, pigmentation is assessed by a Specialist Dermatologist. We are on Hamdan Street in central Abu Dhabi, next to Marks & Spencer, and open seven days a week.

Why Pigmentation Is Different Here

Two things make pigmentation harder to treat in this region. The first is sunlight: UV exposure is high year-round, and pigmentation that has been treated will return if sun protection stops. The second is skin type. Deeper skin tones produce more pigment in response to any injury — including aggressive treatment intended to remove pigment.

This is why the wrong laser, the wrong peel, or a strong over-the-counter whitening cream can leave skin darker than before. It is also why treatment here has to be more careful than the protocols you will read about online.

Conditions We Treat

• Melasma — symmetrical brown or grey-brown patches, usually on the cheeks, forehead and upper lip
• Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation — dark marks left behind by acne, eczema, insect bites or injury
• Sun damage and solar lentigines — age spots and sun spots
• Freckles and ephelides
• Uneven skin tone and dullness
• Dark underarms, neck and intimate areas
• Periorbital pigmentation — dark circles around the eyes

Melasma: What You Should Know Before Treatment

Melasma is a chronic condition. It can be controlled, faded significantly, and kept under control — but it is prone to returning with sun exposure, pregnancy, hormonal changes and certain medications.

Any clinic that promises to cure melasma permanently is either misinformed or dishonest. What good treatment achieves is substantial fading, and a maintenance plan that keeps it faded. Patients who understand this before starting are far more satisfied with their results than those who were promised a cure.

How We Treat Pigmentation

Treatment is selected after examination, and usually combines more than one approach:

• Prescription topical treatments
• Chemical peels, chosen for skin tone and depth of pigment
• Laser treatment where appropriate — used cautiously, and not for every type of pigmentation
• Skin boosters and mesotherapy
• Investigation of underlying causes, including thyroid and hormonal factors
• A sun protection strategy, which is not optional and not an afterthought

Most patients begin to see improvement in six to twelve weeks. Melasma takes longer and needs ongoing maintenance.

A Word on Skin Whitening Creams

Many over-the-counter and imported skin-lightening products contain unregulated concentrations of steroids, hydroquinone or mercury. We regularly see patients whose pigmentation is significantly worse than when they began, and whose skin has thinned or developed permanent redness.

If you are currently using a lightening cream you cannot fully identify, bring it with you to your appointment.

Book a Consultation

WhatsApp: +971 54 999 3859
Call: +971 2 632 3497
Address: 204, EMI State Tower, Hamdan Street, Abu Dhabi — next to Marks & Spencer

Frequently Asked Questions

Can melasma be cured?

It can be substantially faded and kept under control, but it is a chronic condition that tends to return without maintenance and sun protection. Treatment aims at control, not cure.

Is laser safe for pigmentation on darker skin?

Sometimes, and sometimes not. Certain types of pigmentation worsen with laser, particularly melasma on deeper skin tones. This is exactly why assessment comes before treatment.

How long until I see results?

Six to twelve weeks for most pigmentation. Melasma is slower and requires ongoing management.

Will it come back?

Sun-related pigmentation and melasma will return without daily sun protection. Post-acne marks, once cleared, generally do not return unless new acne appears — which is why we may also recommend acne treatment alongside.

Is pigmentation treatment covered by insurance?

Medical assessment is usually covered. Cosmetic treatments such as peels and laser are paid directly.