What it is

→ A melasma maintenance mask is a medical-grade or dermatology-formulated skincare treatment designed to control pigmentation and prevent recurrence of melasma after initial depigmentation therapy (such as Cosmelan, Dermamelan, Enlighten peel, or laser toning).

→ Melasma is a chronic condition influenced by hormones, sun exposure, and skin sensitivity. Even after successful treatments, pigmentation often returns without proper maintenance.

→ The maintenance mask works by combining melanin-inhibiting ingredients, exfoliants, and antioxidants that suppress pigment formation while supporting skin renewal.

→ In Korea, these masks are part of long-term pigmentation care programs, customized by dermatologists for ongoing home use.

Why it’s done

→ Melasma maintenance masks are used to:

• Prevent relapse of melasma after clinical treatment.
• Suppress melanin production by inhibiting tyrosinase (the pigment-forming enzyme).
• Lighten residual pigmentation left after peels or lasers.
• Maintain bright, even skin tone long-term.
• Reduce skin inflammation and oxidative stress, which trigger pigment formation.

→ Without a maintenance plan, melasma often returns within 3–12 months.

Alternatives

→ Alternatives to a melasma maintenance mask include:

• Topical creams (hydroquinone, azelaic acid, retinoids, tranexamic acid, vitamin C).
• Oral medications (tranexamic acid, antioxidants).
• Regular laser toning sessions (Q-switched Nd:YAG or picosecond lasers).
• Pigmentation cocktail peels every few months.
• Strict sun protection with daily SPF 50+.

→ However, maintenance masks offer a convenient, at-home solution to prolong clinic results.

Preparation

→ Before starting a melasma maintenance mask:

• Complete initial treatment (Cosmelan, Dermamelan, Enlighten, or laser).
• Allow recovery period → wait until peeling and irritation from initial treatment have subsided.
• Consult dermatologist → masks are usually prescribed as part of a structured aftercare program.
• Discontinue harsh skincare (AHAs, BHAs, strong retinoids) unless directed by the clinic.
• Ensure consistent sunscreen use, as no maintenance mask can prevent pigmentation without UV protection.

How it’s Done

→ A typical melasma maintenance mask protocol includes:

1. Application frequency
   • Initially applied once daily or every other day, depending on skin tolerance.
   • Frequency is gradually reduced to 2–3 times per week for long-term use.
2. Method
   • Skin is cleansed and dried.
   • A thin layer of the mask is applied evenly to the face or affected areas.
   • Left on for overnight treatment or washed off after 20–30 minutes, depending on product strength.
3. Active ingredients may include:
   • Azelaic acid → anti-inflammatory, pigment suppressor.
   • Kojic acid → inhibits melanin production.
   • Arbutin → natural skin brightener.
   • Tranexamic acid → blocks vascular pathways in melasma.
   • Retinoids → stimulate skin renewal and enhance penetration.
   • Niacinamide → reduces pigment transfer between skin cells.
   • Vitamin C & antioxidants → brighten and protect skin.

→ Korean dermatologists often prescribe Dermamelan Maintenance Mask or custom-blended formulas tailored to patient needs.

Recovery

→ Maintenance masks are gentle compared to initial peels, so downtime is minimal:

• Mild redness, dryness, or tingling may occur initially.
• Flaking or peeling is possible during the first weeks of use.
• Skin tone gradually evens over weeks to months with consistent use.

→ Patients should:

• Use hydrating serums and moisturizers to balance dryness.
• Avoid combining with harsh exfoliants unless recommended.
• Always wear SPF 50+ sunscreen daily to protect results.

Complications

→ While safe, possible side effects include:

• Irritation, dryness, or peeling in sensitive skin.
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight if sunscreen is not used.
• Hypopigmentation if overused or misapplied.
• Allergic reaction to certain ingredients (rare).

→ These risks are minimized by dermatologist monitoring and proper usage schedules.

Treatment options in Korea

→ Korea offers some of the most advanced melasma maintenance programs, often centered around prescription masks:

• Dermamelan Maintenance Mask → globally recognized system available in Korean dermatology clinics.
• Custom-blended formulas → dermatologists create masks with specific concentrations of tranexamic acid, retinoids, and brightening agents.
• Integrated skincare packages → maintenance masks are paired with soothing gels, brightening serums, and sunscreen.
• Combination therapy → often used alongside laser toning or oral tranexamic acid for maximum control.
• Long-term care focus → Korean clinics emphasize sustained results, not quick fixes, ensuring melasma stays suppressed.
• Medical tourism options → international patients are provided with detailed at-home instructions and product refills.

→ With medical-grade formulations, advanced pigmentation expertise, and holistic aftercare, Korea is one of the best destinations for melasma management and long-term maintenance.