Melasma Program & Safe Laser Treatments

Restore. Maintain.

Melasma is a chronic pigmentary condition that affects many people, particularly women, and can have a significant emotional impact. At Dr Nina Wines' clinic, we understand melasma is more than just a skin concern—it affects confidence, identity, and quality of life. That's why we've created the Melasma Program: a structured, personalised treatment and maintenance approach based on the latest evidence, guided by dermatological expertise, and powered by advanced laser and medical therapies.

Why a Program Approach?

Melasma is complex and relapsing. It cannot be 'cured' in a single treatment or even in a single phase. Effective management requires:

  • A comprehensive initial assessment (including a vascular component evaluation)

  • Individualised planning for pigment type and depth

  • Phased laser and topical treatment strategy

  • Long-term prevention strategies to maintain results

Your Melasma Journey: What to Expect

1. Consultation & Diagnosis Dr Nina Wines will take a detailed history to assess hormonal influences, medication use, skin type, and triggers (e.g. heat, light, friction). A clinical examination will determine the depth and type of pigment (epidermal, dermal, mixed) and if vascular elements are involved. A comprehensive individualized plan is developed.

2. Treatment Phase Treatment is staged and tailored. It may include:

  • Topical therapies: Prescriptive compounded formulations, rotational actives, pigment stabilisers

  • Laser therapy:

    • A series of QS 1064nm nanosecond laser for deeper dermal pigment

    • BBL and vascular lasers if redness/vascular melasma is present

    • Low-density non-ablative fractional laser for dermal remodelling

  • Medical Grade Peels and lightening agents when appropriate

  • Oral treatments such as tranexamic acid in select cases

*ll of these can be presided together in a single session to enhance results and outcomes. Multiple sessions are required.

3. Maintenance Phase Once the pigment is reduced:

  • A tailored maintenance plan will be prescribed (including ongoing topicals)

  • Intermittent low-fluence laser or QS laser sessions may be required

  • Strict sun and visible light protection is essential, including:

    • Daily tinted broad-spectrum sunscreen (iron oxide-based)

    • Physical barriers: hats, sunglasses

    • Minimising heat and friction triggers

Why Choose Dr Nina Wines' Melasma Program?

  • Subspecialised dermatological care

  • Personalised, evidence-informed treatment strategies

  • Cutting-edge laser protocols designed for safety and long-term benefit

  • Ethical, patient-centred care with no overpromising or overtreatment

  • Experienced practitioner support team for care continuity

Melasma FAQs

How long before I see results? Initial lightening typically occurs within 2–3 months, with continued improvement over 6–9 months. Maintenance is ongoing.

Will it come back? Melasma is chronic. Without maintenance, recurrence is likely. That’s why the program focuses on prevention and long-term skin habits.

Is it safe for darker skin types? Yes. Treatments are selected based on your skin type. We take special precautions to prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Can lasers make melasma worse? If used inappropriately, yes. Our protocols are based on low-fluence, staged therapy with monitoring to avoid rebound pigmentation.

Book a Consultation Begin your journey with a consultation with Dr Nina Wines. Let’s restore your skin—and your confidence—with science, strategy, and care.

QS Nano laser in action

 What can I expect during treatment?

During the treatment, you may feel a slight warming sensation as the laser and LED light therapy are applied to your skin. The Glycolic treatment may cause a slight tingling sensation. The treatment is generally well-tolerated and does not require any topical anaesthetic.

How many treatments will I need?

We recommend a series of five treatments, spaced 3- 4 weeks apart, for optimal results. However, the number of treatments you need may vary depending on your individual skin concerns.

Is there any downtime after the treatment?

There is minimal downtime after the treatment, and you should be able to resume your normal activities immediately. However, it is important to avoid sun exposure and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin.

How do I sustain results?

Melasma is not curable and Dr Wines is passionate about sustaining results and preventing rebound so you can live a life with your melasma well and truly under control.  An annual maintenance plan developed and directed by our dermatologists is required.

Learn more about a Melasma treatment with Dr Wines - phone 02 9958 1555 or email info@drninawines.com