Pigmentation and melasma: a gentle routine with SPF, vitamin C and in-clinic help

Here's what drives pigmentation in our sunny climate, a simple at-home routine and the in-clinic options listed on Bliss Clinic.

What causes melasma?

Melasma shows up as brown or grey-brown patches, often on the cheeks, forehead, upper lip and chin. (DermNet: melasma)

Other pigmentation, such as sun spots or dark marks left after acne (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation), is treated in similar ways, but a correct diagnosis matters. If you're not sure what you have, see our guide to dermatologists vs aesthetic clinics.

Your at-home routine: SPF, vitamin C and a pigment serum

1. Broad-spectrum SPF every day

Wear SPF30 or higher every morning, even on cloudy days and indoors near windows, and reapply when you're outside. A tinted sunscreen adds iron oxides, which help block visible light, so many people with melasma prefer one. CANSA recommends sunscreen as part of being sun-smart in South Africa (CANSA SunSmart).

• Heliocare 360 Gel Oil-Free SPF50: from R584.99 at Dis-Chem. Bliss Clinic editorial score: 9.1 (source: Bliss Clinic product reviews).
• La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+: R419.99 for 50 ml at Dis-Chem (checked 31 Oct 2026).

2. A vitamin C serum in the morning

Vitamin C is a popular antioxidant serum, worn under sunscreen. SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic is R3 200 at Dermastore (checked 21 Oct 2026; Bliss Clinic editorial score 9.4, source: Bliss Clinic product reviews).

3. A pigment-targeting serum

South African brand Lamelle's Luminesce Brightening Defence is made for pigmentation and is sold through clinics (Bliss Clinic editorial score 8.8, source: Bliss Clinic product reviews). Ask your skin therapist which pigment serum suits your skin.

A smart choice: buy brightening products from trusted sellers

South African law prohibits cosmetics that contain mercury, and products sold as skin lighteners or bleachers (Regulation R.1227 under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetics and Disinfectants Act). The WHO warns that mercury in some unregulated skin lighteners can harm health. Buying from reputable pharmacies, clinics and retailers is the easy way to stay safe. (WHO: mercury and health)

In-clinic options

Prices from each business's public Fresha menu as shown on Bliss Clinic, checked 19 Oct 2026, unless stated. Prices change, so confirm when you book.

Not every treatment suits every skin. Melasma can flare with heat or aggressive treatments, and some lasers and IPL carry more risk for darker skin, so choose a clinic that assesses you first and starts gently. Our guides to chemical peels and IPL for pigmentation go deeper.

Where to book

Sublime Skin and Body in Pinelands is rated 5.0 on Fresha from 2 933 reviews and Cleanse Aesthetics Ferndale 5.0 from 1 947 reviews (checked 19 Oct 2026). Both offer skin consultations, which are a good first step.

Frequently asked questions

Can melasma be cured?

Melasma can be improved and managed well, but it often returns, especially with sun or hormonal triggers. Daily SPF and a consistent routine help keep it under control.

Which SPF is best for pigmentation?

A broad-spectrum SPF30 or higher that you'll wear every day. Many people with melasma prefer a tinted sunscreen. Reapply when you're outdoors.

Is vitamin C good for dark spots?

Vitamin C is a popular antioxidant serum, worn under sunscreen. It's a supporting step, not a replacement for SPF.

Which clinic treatments help pigmentation?

Options at listed clinics include pigment-targeting peels, laser and IPL, and treatment packages, from about R400 to R3 250, with Cosmelan at R17 500 (Fresha menus, checked 19 Oct 2026). A clinic should assess your skin first.