Chemical Peels to Treat Melasma in Darker Skin

Chemical Peels to Treat Melasma in Darker Skin

What works. What doesn’t? And where to go.

There’s a quiet frustration that often accompanies melasma. That patchy, mask-like pigmentation that seems to creep in overnight and linger for months, sometimes years. For patients with darker skin tones, treating it can feel like navigating a minefield. With so much conflicting information on the topic, its hard to determine what advice you should be listening to.

At Aegis MD in St. Catharines, we’ve seen it all: clients who’ve tried everything from hydroquinone creams to laser treatments, only to end up with rebound pigmentation or no improvement at all. Here’s the truth: Melasma in darker skin requires a gentler, more strategic approach. And yes, that includes chemical peels.

Melasma 101

Melasma isn’t just “sun spots.” It’s a hormonally driven pigmentation disorder that settles deep within the skin. It flares up with sun exposure, inflammation, pregnancy, and heat. It can affect all skin tones, but is notoriously stubborn in darker skin (Fitzpatrick types IV to VI), which is also more prone to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

So… Can You Peel Away Melasma?

Yes — but it’s less about stripping the skin and more about nudging it to reset.

At Aegis MD medical aesthetics clinic in Niagara, our approach to melasma in deeper skin tones prioritizes:

  • Controlled exfoliation
  • Anti-inflammatory prep
  • And maintenance (because melasma isn’t a one-and-done condition)

What We Avoid

  • High-strength TCA or phenol-based peels Too aggressive for melanin-rich skin. Risk of hypopigmentation is real.
  • Laser treatments in the wrong hands Certain lasers can worsen melasma if used without the proper settings and pre-treatment prep. Our providers are extensively trained, and a physician oversees our treatment settings.
  • Skipping prep and aftercare We always use melanin-regulating topicals pre- and post-peel. Sunscreen isn’t optional and we ensure our patients are willing to commit to a sunscreen protocol after treatment.

Our Signature Melasma Protocol at Aegis MD

Here’s what a typical treatment journey might look like at our clinic:

  1. Consultation — We assess your pigment type, triggers, and skin history. No assumptions.
  2. Skin prep — 2-4 weeks of pigment-regulating skincare, customized for your tone.
  3. Gentle Peel Sessions — Biweekly or monthly sessions, depending on how your skin responds.
  4. Post-Peel Maintenance — Topicals, LED therapy, and SPF tailored for pigment-prone skin.
Every protocol is tailored to your unique needs.

Real Results Take Patience

Melasma doesn’t vanish in a week. However, with the right chemical peel and treatment protocol, we’ve seen significant improvements in tone, clarity, and confidence.

Visit us at Aegis MD, a medical aesthetics clinic and proud partner of Dermapure St. Catharines, for a personalized consultation on facial fillers, wrinkle relaxers, laser hair removal, skin care, varicose vein treatments, and any other anti-aging concerns. We serve patients from Niagara, Hamilton, Oakville, and St. Catharines!