Melasma and Hyperpigmentation in Men: Causes and Treatment Tips for Clearer Skin in Manchester
- Dr Andrew Mabey
- Aug 5
- 3 min read
At The Aesthetics Doctors clinic in Manchester, we’re seeing a significant rise in men seeking effective solutions for hyperpigmentation concerns. While often associated with women, conditions like melasma and hyperpigmentation affect a large number of men, particularly those with darker skin tones whose melanin-producing cells (melanocytes) are naturally more reactive.
If you're frustrated by persistent dark patches or uneven skin tone, you're not alone. Understanding the cause is the first step towards an effective, long-term solution.
What's Really Causing Those Dark Marks on Your Skin?
Abnormal pigmentation in men's skin isn't a single issue. It typically falls into one of three categories (or multiple!), often exacerbated by sun exposure and inflammation:
Melasma
Often appearing as symmetrical, blotchy patches on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. While hormonal influences are a known trigger, UV radiation is the primary driver.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
These are the dark spots left behind after an inflammatory event like acne, a shaving nick, or irritation. For men prone to breakouts or shaving rash, PIH can be a constant battle.
Solar Lentigos (Sun Spots)
These are distinct, defined spots that appear on sun-exposed areas like the face, scalp, and hands after years of cumulative UV exposure.
The Challenge: Why Male Pigmentation Needs a Strategic Approach
Let’s be clear: melasma and stubborn hyperpigmentation are not quick fixes. These are chronic conditions, meaning they have a high tendency to recur. The biggest mistake we see is patients rushing into aggressive treatments like lasers and deep peels. This can often damage the skin barrier, increase inflammation, and ultimately make the pigmentation worse - a phenomenon known as rebound hyperpigmentation.
Effective treatment requires patience, consistency, and a multi-faceted plan that stabilises your melanocytes before attempting corrective procedures.
Our Doctor-Led Approach to Treating Hyperpigmentation and Melasma in our Manchester Clinic
In our Manchester clinic- we build a robust, personalised hyperpigmentation skincare regimen designed to calm your skin and control pigment production at the source.
Step 1: The Non-Negotiable Foundation – Sun Protection
UV radiation is the number one trigger for melanin production, therefore SPF is KEY!
OUR RECOMMENDATION
We strongly recommend a tinted, mineral-based SPF. The iron oxides in tinted formulas provide crucial protection against visible light (including from blue light-, which is now known to be a significant stimulator of melanocytes)
Step 2: Clinically-Proven Active Ingredients
Several active ingredients are crucial for reducing pigmentation and evening out skin tone. We know that we need to incorporate multiple actives to influence different aspects of the pigmentation pathway, but importantly without causing impairment of the skin barrier and inflammation (which would make things worse!)
Here are the actives you need to look our for.
Vitamin C
Antioxidant that brightens skin and reduces free radical damage.
Niacinamide
Reduces inflammation and regulates pigment production.
Kojic Acid
Inhibits melanin synthesis.
Azelaic Acid
A tyrosinase inhibitor that reduces pigmentation and supports a healthy skin barrier.
Tretinoin (Prescription Retinoid)
Increases skin cell turnover, improves texture, and enhances penetration of other actives.
Hydroquinone
A powerful pigment suppressor, typically used in short cycles (e.g., 3-month protocols).
Step 3: Advanced Intervention
Once your prescription skincare has stabilised pigment production and fortified your skin barrier (usually after 3-6 months), we can then consider in-clinic procedures to accelerate results.
Chemical Peels
We recommend specific peels formulated to target pigment without causing undue inflammation.
Laser Therapy
Advanced lasers can break down deep, stubborn pigment, but timing is everything. This is only an option for well-prepped skin.
Why a Prescription Is Your Best Investment
The world of men's skincare is growing, but generic, off-the-shelf products are not designed to treat medical conditions like melasma. Through our partnership with a leading dermatology service Klira, we offer customised prescription skincare with the right actives in the right concentrations for your skin. This personalised approach avoids irritation, prevents rebound pigmentation, and delivers tangible, lasting results.
Start Your Journey to Clearer Skin in Manchester
If you’re ready to move beyond ineffective solutions and commit to a plan that works, we’re here to guide you. Book a consultation at The Aesthetics Doctors MCR today, and let's create your personalised strategy for tackling hyperpigmentation and achieving clear, healthy, and even-toned skin in our Manchester clinic.