Chemical Peel & Melasma Treatment Programme

Melasma and hyperpigmentation treatment at Wall Street Dermatology using a multi-modality protocol combining medical-grade chemical peels with Q-switch laser toning, prescription topical agents, and microneedling. Results develop progressively over 3–6 months. Programmes are individually tailored by Dr. Julia Tzu for each patient's Fitzpatrick skin type and melasma pattern. Contact clinic for pricing.

Wall Street Dermatology takes a multi-modality approach to melasma and diffuse hyperpigmentation, recognising that this condition — driven by UV exposure, hormonal influences, and genetic predisposition — rarely responds adequately to any single treatment modality alone. Dr. Julia Tzu, who brings dermatopathology fellowship training and expertise in pigmentation disorders, designs individualised programmes for each patient that may combine medical-grade chemical peels, Q-switch laser toning, prescription topical agents, and microneedling in a sequenced treatment plan tailored to the specific melasma subtype (epidermal, dermal, or mixed), Fitzpatrick skin type, and treatment history. Chemical peels at various depths are used to accelerate epidermal turnover and remove pigment-laden superficial layers; superficial peels using alpha-hydroxy acids and salicylic acid carry minimal downtime and reduce risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in darker skin tones. Q-switch laser toning at low-fluence settings using the Q-switched Alexandrite laser can target deeper dermal melanin deposits that chemical peels cannot reach, helping address the mixed subtype of melasma where pigment is distributed across both epidermal and dermal compartments. Prescription topical agents — which may include hydroquinone, tretinoin, azelaic acid, kojic acid, and niacinamide — are integrated into the home care regimen between clinic sessions to maintain suppression of melanocyte activity. Microneedling may be incorporated to improve product penetration and stimulate regulated cellular renewal. Broad-spectrum sun protection is a non-negotiable component of any melasma treatment programme, as UV exposure re-activates melanocyte hypersecretion and can counteract clinical treatment within days. Results develop progressively over 3–6 months. Maintenance sessions are required, as melasma is a chronic condition without a definitive cure.