Pigmentation on the face is one of the most common concerns we see at Skin Galore Clinic, Mira Road. Two conditions that are often mistaken for each other are Melasma and Lichen Planus Pigmentosus (LPP). While they may look similar at first glance, they are very different in cause, behavior, and treatment.
Understanding the difference is key to getting the right results.
What is Melasma?
Melasma is a common pigmentation disorder that causes light to dark brown patches, mainly on sun-exposed areas of the face.
Common Features:
- Symmetrical patches on cheeks, forehead, upper lip, and nose
- Light to dark brown color
- Worsens with sun exposure
- Often linked to hormonal changes (pregnancy, oral contraceptives)
- More common in women
Triggers:
- Sun exposure (major factor)
- Hormonal imbalance
- Genetics
- Heat and UV radiation
What is LPP (Lichen Planus Pigmentosus)?
LPP is a chronic pigmentary disorder that leads to dark brown to grayish-black pigmentation, often more diffuse and deeper in color.
Common Features:
- Dark brown to gray-black patches
- Commonly affects face, neck, and sometimes body folds
- Can be asymmetrical or diffuse
- May have mild itching in some cases
- Often seen in individuals with darker skin types
Triggers:
- Sun exposure
- Fragrances, cosmetics, or hair dyes
- Immune-mediated factors
Key Differences: Melasma vs LPP
| Feature | Melasma | LPP |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Light to dark brown | Dark brown to gray/black |
| Pattern | Symmetrical | Often diffuse or irregular |
| Cause | Hormonal + sun | Inflammatory/immune |
| Depth | More superficial | Deeper pigmentation |
| Itching | No | Sometimes mild itching |
| Response to treatment | Good with proper care | More resistant, needs specialized approach |
Why Correct Diagnosis Matters
Treating LPP as melasma can actually worsen pigmentation. Many over-the-counter creams or steroid combinations may give temporary lightening but can damage the skin in the long run.
At Skin Galore Clinic, we carefully evaluate your skin using clinical expertise to differentiate between these conditions before starting treatment.
Treatment Approach at Skin Galore Clinic
We offer customized treatment plans based on accurate diagnosis:
For Melasma:
- Medical-grade depigmenting creams
- Chemical peels
- Laser toning (when appropriate)
- Strict sunscreen protocol
For LPP:
- Anti-inflammatory treatments
- Barrier repair therapies
- Gentle pigment-reduction procedures
- Identification and avoidance of triggers
Expert Tip
Not all pigmentation is the same. If your pigmentation is not improving despite treatment, it may not be melasma.
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