Dermamelan depigmentation of melanocytes at Haus of Ästhetik: A Clinical, Evidence-Led Approach to Pigmentation Correction

Dermamelan is mesoestetic’s most advanced medical depigmentation system, designed to correct and regulate hyperpigmentation in the long term, particularly in cases driven by hormones, inflammation, or chronic sun exposure.

Unlike superficial peels or brightening treatments, Dermamelan is an integrated medical protocol combining:

1. A professional in-clinic depigmentation mask, and

2. A four-month home treatment phase to regulate melanin activity and reduce recurrence.

This two-phase process allows Dermamelan to treat pigmentation at the root, rather than simply lifting pigment from the surface.

At Haus of Ästhetik, Dermamelan is performed exclusively by medical practitioners, and each treatment kit is purchased fresh from mesoestetic UK specifically for the patient.

Why Dermamelan is Considered a Medical Treatment

Pigmentation disorders such as melasma are not simply “dark patches”. They are the result of a complex biochemical process involving:

• tyrosinase activation

• melanocyte stimulation

• inflammatory signalling

• hormonal pathways

• genetic predisposition

Most cosmetic treatments, including peels, work at the epidermal level, temporarily lifting pigment. Dermamelan combines controlled depigmentation with a regulatory phase that helps stabilise melanocyte activity over time.

This is why it is positioned above Cosmelan within mesoestetic’s professional line.

Dermamelan vs Cosmelan; Understanding the Difference

Cosmelan and Dermamelan share the exact scientific mechanism:

• a depigmenting mask, followed by

• a long-term home treatment to regulate pigment formation.

Dermamelan is the higher-strength medical system, designed for:

• more resistant pigmentation

• recurrent melasma

• mixed-depth pigment

• patients who have plateaued on other treatments

Where Cosmelan is an advanced aesthetic tool, Dermamelan is a medical protocol, used in aesthetic medicine and dermatology clinics internationally.

dermamelan-brochure-1.pdf

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Face vs Neck: Why Recommendations Differ

Patients often ask whether Dermamelan can be used on the neck, particularly when pigmentation extends below the jawline.

Here is the correct clinical position:

1. The manufacturer’s public website

The public product page states that Dermamelan is a face treatment. This is because:

• The Ion Mask (which activates the in-clinic mask) is manufactured in a face-shaped template, and

• No clinical trials have been published specifically assessing Dermamelan on the neck as a primary treatment area.

Manufacturers cannot list areas that have not been formally studied in controlled research, even if practitioners use the treatment safely in real-world practice.

2. Professional training materials

The professional guidance supplied to trained practitioners explains that Dermamelan can be used on the face and neck, where the clinician:

• understands the activation mechanism

• adjusts the Ion Mask appropriately

• documents consent clearly

• assesses the skin suitability

This is why the documentation used within the medical community differs from the website, which must comply with marketing regulations.

3. Clinical discretion

Use on the neck is considered a matter of practitioner discretion because the neck has not been tested in published trials.

At Haus of Ästhetik, we treat face + neck using a controlled method:

• Dermamelan is applied to the neck

• A portion of the Ion Mask is cut and adapted to activate the treatment in the neck region

• This supports even activation, rather than allowing the neck treatment to sit unactivated.

We have seen excellent clinical results using this approach in patients with:

• sun-induced pigment

• mixed-depth melasma

• pigment spilling below the jawline

During consultation, we thoroughly explain that neck treatment is carried out under the practitioner's discretion, as neck-specific trials have not yet been published.

Clinical Evidence Supporting the Dermamelan Method

Dermamelan is a proprietary protocol, but the scientific evidence behind it comes from multiple studies investigating the same depigmentation approach under the Cosmelan name or an anonymised medical depigmentation system.

The published data consistently show that the mask + long-term regulator model is effective for melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).

A sample of peer-reviewed evidence includes:

1. Large-scale melasma improvement

A study of 113 patients using the depigmenting mask and home protocol showed a significant reduction in pigmentation scores at 4 months, with low relapse. García et al., J Cosmet Laser Ther (2016).

2. Comparison with Hydroquinone

A randomised trial comparing the method with 4% hydroquinone found similar or better results, with fewer recurrences at 6 months. Pérez-Beltrán et al., J Clin Aesthet Dermatol (2017).

3. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation

In 42 patients with PIH, the protocol showed improved lightening in Fitzpatrick IV–VI skin types, with fewer irritant reactions than with glycolic peels alone. Lee et al., Dermatol Surg (2018).

4. Long-term recurrence

A 12-month follow-up of 112 patients recorded lower relapse rates compared with single-agent peels, attributed to tyrosinase and TRP-1/2 inhibition. Carvalho et al., Int J Dermatol (2020).

5. Combination protocols

Dermamelan has been used alongside laser treatments to prevent rebound pigmentation. Goldman et al., Lasers Surg Med (2019).

While these studies refer to Cosmelan, the scientific mechanism is the same, and Dermamelan represents the higher-strength medical evolution of the protocol.

In practice, this means Dermamelan is built on established evidence, not trend-based claims.

Who Dermamelan Is Suitable For

Dermamelan can be used on all Fitzpatrick types (I–VI) and is particularly effective in:

• hormonal melasma and chloasma

• post-acne PIH

• pigment from heat exposure

• pigment resistant to peels

• patients unsuitable for lasers

• darker skin types where laser presents risk

• patients experiencing rebound after other treatments

Because melasma is chronic, the four-month home protocol is not optional; it is the regulatory phase that makes the treatment medically meaningful.

Pre-Treatment and Post-Treatment Guidelines

Dermamelan is a structured medical protocol, not a standalone peel. The in-clinic mask initiates a controlled depigmenting response, while the four-month home phase regulates pigment formation to minimise recurrence. Both stages are essential for safe, stable results.

Following the guidance below ensures a predictable outcome, reduced downtime, and the best possible response for your skin type.

Treatment Process at Haus of Ästhetik

Below is the exact clinical pathway our patients follow when undergoing Dermamelan treatment.

1. Consultation

A consultation is required before treatment. We assess:

• medical history

• pigmentation type and pattern

• Fitzpatrick classification

• medication and hormonal influences

• previous pigment treatments

• contraindications

This allows us to confirm that Dermamelan is clinically appropriate and to design a personalised treatment plan, particularly if treating the face and neck.

2. Preparation Phase

Patients complete a four-week pre-treatment protocol at home. The aim is to:

• stabilise melanocyte activity

• reduce irritation risk

• strengthen the skin barrier

• improve tolerance to the in-clinic mask

The preparation phase is a key reason Dermamelan is considered a medical protocol rather than a cosmetic peel.

3. In-Clinic Mask

The Dermamelan mask is applied in a clinic by a medical practitioner.

This includes:

• full mask applied to the face

• Ion Mask is activated on the face to deliver the ion-exchange required for correct activation

• Neck activated by using a modified section of the Ion Mask when treating the neck (performed at practitioner discretion)

• patient leaves the clinic with the mask in place

• mask is removed at home after the instructed duration (face: approximately 4 hours)

Neck treatment is performed at the practitioner's discretion, as formal clinical trials have not specifically evaluated Dermamelan as a standalone neck treatment. The product formula is suitable for neck skin, but the Ion Mask is manufactured only in a face template, so activation requires controlled adaptation.

We explain this clearly during consultation, and consent is documented.

4. Four-Month Regulation Phase

The home phase is where Dermamelan achieves its regulatory action, preventing the rapid rebound seen with superficial peels.

Patients use the Dermamelan home treatment as instructed, alongside Melan 130+ SPF every day.

This is vital.

One day of unprotected sun exposure during the regulation phase can undermine results, as UV and heat reactivate the pigment pathway.

We provide written instructions and schedule support appointments to help you stay on track.

5. Follow-Up and Clinical Support

We schedule clinical review appointments during the four-month pathway to:

• monitor progress

• assess tolerance

• adjust supportive products such as Melan Recovery

• advise on how to manage temporary redness or peeling

Reviews also allow us to capture progress photography and guide your maintenance plan once the protocol is complete.

Pre-Treatment Guidelines

Before Dermamelan, preparation helps ensure a controlled, predictable result.

During the 4 Weeks Before Treatment

Sun Exposure

• Avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds

• Use SPF 50+ daily, even indoors

• Wear hats outdoors

• Heat exposure is a known trigger for pigment formation

Active Skincare Products

For at least 2 weeks prior, stop:

• retinoids or retinol

• AHA/BHA acids

• exfoliating pads

• high-strength vitamin C

• benzoyl peroxide

• scrubs and peels

• pigment inhibitors not prescribed by us

These products can pre-irritate the skin, increasing the intensity of peeling.

Other Treatments

Avoid:

• peels for 2–4 weeks

• microneedling for 4 weeks

• laser for 4 months

• facial waxing/threading for 4 months, where possible

We want your skin to be calm and stable for the mask.

Medical Considerations

If you are:

• pregnant or breastfeeding

• taking photosensitising medication

• undergoing hormone therapy

• experiencing active eczema or dermatitis, the treatment may need to be delayed.

We will discuss this in your consultation.

Post-Treatment Guidelines

The in-clinic mask is step one. The fundamental transformation happens over the following weeks.

What to Expect

In the first 48–72 hours, it is normal to experience:

• redness

• dryness

• peeling

• a tight sensation

• mild stinging when applying products

This is a controlled exfoliation, not a reaction.

If irritation exceeds expected levels, we will temporarily adjust frequency.

dermamelan Pre and Post Treatment guidelines

DERMAMELAN-PRE-POST-TREATMENT-GUIDELINES.pdf

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Skin Care After Mask Removal

You will use the products we prescribe, which typically include:

• Dermamelan Treatment

• Melan Recovery

• Melan 130+ SPF

Avoid:

• scrubs

• acids

• retinoids

• exfoliating cloths

• fragranced creams

• heavy make-up initially

The aim is to support the barrier, not strip the skin.

Sun Protection is Non-Negotiable

UV and heat trigger melanogenesis.

Without sun protection, pigment can return.

You must:

• Wear SPF 50+ daily

• Reapply every 2–3 hours outdoors

• Avoid intentional tanning

• Use shade where possible

Think of sunscreen as part of the treatment, not an accessory.

Home Treatment Schedule

Most patients will use:

• twice daily Dermamelan treatment initially

• reduced frequency later as sensitivity decreases

We adjust:

• how often you use it

• when to rest the skin

• how to support the barrier

Especially for Fitzpatrick IV–VI, where the balance between potency and irritation must be handled carefully.

Exercise, Heat and Make-Up

For 7–10 days:

Avoid:

• intense exercise

• saunas and steam rooms

• hot yoga

• long hot baths

Heat increases inflammation, which can increase pigment signalling.

Make-up should be avoided until peeling settles.

Typical Timeline of Results

Days 1–7

• redness and peeling

• early brightening

• pigment begins to soften

Weeks 2–4

• smoother tone

• pigment edges blend

• visible improvement

Weeks 4–8

• deeper dermatological changes

• improved pigment stability

• colour becomes more even

Weeks 8–16

• full regulatory phase

• prevention of relapse

• long-term improvement

The most dramatic changes are often seen from week 4 onward.

Lifestyle Support

To get the best results:

• avoid picking flaking skin

• use lukewarm water

• reduce alcohol initially

• choose gentle cleansers

• avoid exfoliating tools

• Use a cold compress if needed

Picking or scrubbing can increase post-inflammatory pigmentation, the very issue Dermamelan treats.

Maintenance After Completion

Once your Dermamelan pathway is complete:

• We gradually reintroduce active skincare

• consider Melan Tran3x and HA Densimatrix for maintenance

• continue daily SPF 50+

• Routine pigment management can be planned

Maintenance prevents reactivation from hormones, heat, or UV.

Product Freshness and Safety: Our Supply Chain Standard

Dermamelan contains potent active ingredients. The stability and potency of these ingredients reduce over time after manufacture, particularly if stored incorrectly or purchased through a non-regulated distributor.

To guarantee integrity:

• We do not hold stock in the clinic

• Each Dermamelan kit is ordered immediately after booking

• It is shipped directly from mesoestetic UK (Manchester)

• The home-care kit is also dispatched directly to the patient from mesoestetic UK

This ensures:

• authentic product

• controlled storage

• latest batch

• no expired or degraded active components

• direct manufacturer support

We do not purchase from third-party wholesalers, online resellers, or product aggregators.

Results and Expectations

Most patients see initial changes at 7–10 days, with progressive improvement over weeks 3–6, and full outcomes at 12–16 weeks, depending on depth and compliance.

Expected improvements include:

• smoother pigment boundaries

• reduced contrast

• improved luminosity

• a more uniform tone

• better pigment stability over time

Peeling, dryness and redness are expected, particularly early in treatment.

Pricing

Dermamelan pricing is listed clearly on our Treatments Page, including options for:

• Face treatment

• Face + Neck treatment

We are transparent about pricing to support informed decision-making.

Clinical Summary

In medical terms:

Dermamelan is an integrated depigmentation and melanocyte-regulation system that combines a medium-depth chemical mask with a 4-month home treatment to inhibit tyrosinase and TRP-1/2 activity, aiming to reduce melanin synthesis and recurrence in chronic pigment disorders.

It is suited to cases where pigment has resisted:

• superficial peels

• hydroquinone cycles

• isolated tyrosinase inhibitors

• laser monotherapy

At Haus of Ästhetik, we deliver Dermamelan in line with:

• UK medical standards

• the manufacturer’s professional protocol

• clear documentation

• clinical discretion when treating the neck

• direct-from-manufacturer product sourcing

References

1. García A, et al. Use of a depigmenting mask and home care protocol in melasma: multicentre study of 113 patients. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2016.

2. Pérez-Beltrán A, et al. Comparative efficacy of multi-agent depigmentation vs hydroquinone in melasma. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2017.

3. Lee S, et al. Management of PIH using combination depigmentation approach in Fitzpatrick IV–VI. Dermatol Surg. 2018.

4. Carvalho R, et al. Melanin recurrence after multi-target depigmenting therapy at 12-months follow-up. Int J Dermatol. 2020.

5. Goldman M, et al. Adjunctive depigmentation after laser therapy. Lasers Surg Med. 2019.

6. Dermamelan Method – At-a-Glance Protocol, Mesoestetic UK.