Why pigmentation is so stubborn in Lucknow.
Skin pigmentation and uneven tone are common problems — but melasma, often called the "mask of pregnancy", is uniquely complex. It produces symmetrical brown or grayish patches on the cheeks, bridge of the nose, forehead, and upper lip, and it sits in different layers of the skin depending on the patient.
Many attempt to fade these spots using over-the-counter brightening creams or salon facials. These methods frequently fail because pigmentation often exists in the deeper layers of the skin — improper treatment can actually worsen the condition, particularly with high-potency steroid creams that produce rebound darker pigmentation on withdrawal.
Residents of Lucknow face additional triggers. The city experiences extreme seasonal weather including harsh summers with a very high UV index. Ultraviolet radiation and intense heat are the primary triggers for pigment-producing cells (melanocytes). Even a few minutes of unprotected sun exposure on a hot day can trigger a massive surge in melanin production — quickly darkening existing patches and rendering standard over-the-counter creams ineffective. Hormonal shifts such as pregnancy or oral contraceptive use combined with local sun exposure significantly accelerate the condition.
Types of pigmentation that need medical care.
A correct diagnosis is essential — different pigmentation types respond to different treatments, and a one-size-fits-all approach often makes things worse. Dr. Kanchan uses clinical examination (and Wood's lamp where useful) to determine the exact depth and type:
Melasma
Deep, hormonal patches that require targeted medical management. Particularly tricky because it sits in both epidermal and dermal layers in many patients.
Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH)
Dark spots left behind after acne, insect bites, or skin injuries heal. Common after picked pimples, this responds well to consistent treatment but requires patience.
Sun Spots & Freckles
Flat, brown spots caused by chronic, cumulative sun damage. Often the first visible sign of accelerated photoaging.
Macular Amyloidosis
Dark, rippled patches of skin often caused by friction or chronic rubbing — common on the upper back, arms, and shins in Indian patients.
When to consult a dermatologist.
- You have brown or grey patches on your cheeks, forehead, or upper lip that won't fade with sunscreen alone.
- Dark spots persist months after acne or insect bites heal.
- You've been using brightening creams for 8+ weeks without visible improvement.
- Pigmentation worsens during summer or pregnancy.
- You're using or have used skin-lightening creams of unknown ingredients (high steroid risk).
- You see dark, rippled patches that itch or have appeared after friction.
Treatment options offered.
At the Aliganj clinic, Dr. Kanchan combines customised topical regimens with medical-grade procedures to break down deep-seated pigment safely:
Specific treatment recommendations and accurate pricing require a clinical consultation. Call to book a consultation.
Ready to take the next step?
Book a consultation with Dr. Kanchan for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment plan.
Frequently asked questions.
Can melasma be cured permanently?
Will laser treatments for pigmentation cause my skin to thin?
How many sessions are needed for pigmentation treatment?
Is it true that some skin-lightening creams can cause more pigmentation?
What is the cost of melasma treatment?
Will my pigmentation come back after treatment?
What patients say.
My experience has been very good. Dr. Kanchan ma'am treated me — she is the best dermatologist in the town.
Having been a regular at the doctor's clinic I absolutely love how hygienic and professional they've always been. My laser treatment has been very effective. If you are looking for a good doctor for cosmetic treatment, you can blindly trust Dr Kanchan ma'am.
Dr. Kanchan Srivastava is a very good dermatologist. Doctor behaviour is so curious and good.