How to treat Melasma - Interview
How to Minimize Melasma – with Jennifer Tillney, CEO of Platinum Skin Care
Today we’re talking about how to minimize melasma—why it’s so difficult to treat, and some ways to work around it. I’m here with Jennifer Tillney, CEO of Platinum Skin Care. She’s been helping women with their skin for a long time—and she also deals with melasma herself.
Can melasma be prevented?
You can’t prevent it 100%—it’s hormone- and genetics-based. If you’re prone to getting it, you probably will. But you can take steps to lessen your risk. Wear black, wear a big hat, use an umbrella when you’re in the sun.
What does melasma look like?
I had it on my forehead and jawline. A lot of people get it on their cheeks too. On the jawline it can look like a beard, which is especially frustrating. It’s hard to cover up—even with the best concealer, it still shows through.
How did you feel when you realized it was melasma, not sunspots?
It doesn’t change how you treat it—it’s still pigmentation. You use melanin inhibitors, peels, lasers... the challenge is, it never truly goes away. With hyperpigmentation, you can often remove it completely. With melasma, it can return due to hormonal changes, even years later.
What was your first peel like?
Disastrous. I ordered a glycolic peel online 25 years ago—this was pre-YouTube! It came with a massive instruction sheet. I was terrified, and the first time I did it, my skin broke out terribly. I had no idea that was part of the purging process. Eventually, I stopped, not knowing what to do.
Is that what inspired Platinum Skin Care?
Absolutely. I messed up my skin and ended up seeing a dermatologist. Their solution? More peels, microdermabrasion, light therapy. It helped, but it was $300 a week—just not sustainable. That’s when I thought, there has to be a way for people to do this at home, properly and affordably.
How did you start treating your own melasma?
I began with vitamin C—it’s an antioxidant that helps prevent damage before it starts. I wore it before going out in the sun, and it really helped reduce hyperpigmentation, even if not 100%. Along with that, I used melanin inhibitors like our Fade Bright (which contains alpha arbutin), and of course, sunscreen.
What’s your go-to regimen for melasma?
Start with exfoliation—a glycolic cleanser or revitalizing cleanser. Add a melanin inhibitor (Fade Bright), and wear SPF every day. Wide-brimmed hats and umbrellas are key. If you want more aggressive results, peels help—like Mandelic 40, or stronger ones like Jessner.
Can you get rid of melasma completely?
There’s no cure, but you can significantly reduce it. Peels can get rid of most or even all of the visible pigmentation for some people. But it’s something you’ll always manage.
What’s a basic beginner routine?
- Cleanser (mild exfoliation)
- Melanin inhibitor (Fade Bright)
- SPF daily
And a complete regimen?
Morning:
- Cleanse
- Fade Bright
- Vitamin C
- Moisturizer (depending on your skin type)
- SPF
Evening:
- Cleanse
- Fade Bright
- Retinoid
Peels:
- Once a week for lighter ones, once a month for stronger ones.
Which peels are best for melasma?
Lactic and mandelic are mild. Jessner is stronger and very effective.
We also have a “Build a Regimen” tool on our website, with options specifically for melasma.
Best products to minimize melasma.
Shop pigmentation: https://www.platinumskincare.com/pigmentation/
