A double chin can appear even in people who are slim and active. Genetics, posture, ageing skin and weight changes all play a part. The good news is that several non-surgical treatments can now reduce fullness under the chin and sharpen the jawline. For double chin removal without surgery, the key is matching the treatment to the real cause.
What Is Melasma?
Melasma is a long-term skin condition that causes brown or grey-brown patches, usually on the face. It often appears symmetrically on both sides.
Common areas include:
- Cheeks
- Forehead
- Upper lip
- Bridge of the nose
- Chin
It is far more common in women, especially those with medium to darker skin tones, which are well represented across the UAE.
Why Is Melasma So Common in Dubai?
Several triggers come together in the region.
- Strong, year-round sun. UV light is the main trigger, and Dubai gets a lot of it.
- Heat. Heat itself can darken melasma, even without direct sun.
- Visible light. Bright light, including some from screens, may play a role in some people.
- Hormones. Pregnancy, the contraceptive pill and hormone therapy can trigger or worsen it.
- Genetics. Melasma often runs in families.
Why Does Melasma Keep Coming Back?
Melasma is not a one-off stain that you remove. The pigment cells in affected skin stay overactive, ready to respond to the next trigger.
That means:
- A treatment can fade the patches, but not “switch off” the tendency
- A single day of unprotected sun can undo weeks of progress
- Aggressive treatments can cause irritation, which may darken melasma further
The goal is long-term control, much like managing any chronic skin condition.
Which Treatments Actually Help?
Most successful plans combine several approaches.
1. Strict Sun Protection
This is the foundation. Without it, nothing else lasts.
- Use a broad-spectrum, high-SPF sunscreen every day
- Choose a tinted sunscreen with iron oxides, which also help block visible light
- Reapply every two to three hours when outdoors
- Add a hat and shade in peak hours
2. Prescription Topical Treatments
Doctors may recommend creams that slow pigment production. Options can include hydroquinone for short courses, azelaic acid, tranexamic acid, retinoids or combination creams. These should be used under medical guidance.
3. Gentle Chemical Peels
Light peels can help fade surface pigment when done carefully, in a series, and with proper skin preparation.
4. Carefully Chosen Laser or Light Treatments
Some low-energy lasers can help selected patients. However, heat-heavy or aggressive lasers can make melasma worse, especially in darker skin. This is why the device and settings matter so much.
5. Oral Treatment, in Selected Cases
Some doctors prescribe oral tranexamic acid for stubborn melasma. It is not suitable for everyone, and it requires a full medical review first.
What Should You Avoid?
- Harsh scrubs and DIY peels
- Unsupervised bleaching creams bought online
- Long, unprotected time outdoors or near intense heat
- Picking or irritating the skin
- Stopping your maintenance routine once patches fade
Can Facials Help Melasma?
Gentle facials that hydrate and calm the skin can support a melasma plan. However, hot steam, strong scrubs and aggressive extractions can irritate the skin and may darken patches. Tell any therapist that you have melasma so they can adapt the treatment.
How Long Does Melasma Treatment Take?
Expect a gradual process. Many people notice improvement within 8 to 12 weeks of consistent treatment. Fading continues over several months, followed by a maintenance phase that may last for years.
- Weeks 1 to 4: Sun protection, topical treatment starts
- Weeks 4 to 12: Visible fading begins; peels may be added
- Months 3 to 6: Continued improvement; gentle laser if suitable
- Ongoing: Maintenance and strict sun protection
How Is Melasma Different From Other Dark Spots?
Not every brown patch is melasma. Sun spots, post-acne marks and other pigmentation look similar but need different treatment. An accurate diagnosis prevents you from using the wrong approach.
You can learn about our skin assessments and treatments on the facial and skin care.
Tips for Living Well With Melasma
- Keep sunscreen in your bag and car
- Use a gentle cleanser and a calming moisturiser
- Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening
- Tell your doctor if you start or stop hormonal medicines
Explore our full range of skin, laser and dermatology services on the Sasha Aesthetic Clinic.
Keeping Melasma Calm, Season After Season
Melasma is a long game, not a quick fix. The people who do best combine daily sun protection, medical-grade topicals, gentle in-clinic treatments and steady maintenance. With the right plan, most patients can fade their patches significantly and keep them under control through Dubai’s sunny seasons.
For a proper diagnosis and plan, book a skin consultation in JVC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Melasma can be controlled and faded, but it tends to return with triggers. Long-term maintenance keeps it under control.
Some gentle lasers help selected patients. Aggressive lasers can worsen melasma, so a doctor should choose the device and settings.
A broad-spectrum, high-SPF tinted sunscreen is often recommended. The iron oxides in tinted formulas help block visible light too.
Pregnancy is a common trigger because of hormonal changes. It sometimes fades after pregnancy, but not always.
Many people see improvement within eight to twelve weeks of consistent treatment. Full results take several months.