Which department should I see for melasma?

Name: Which department should I see for melasma?
Creator: Which Department
Published: 2026-09-17

2026-09-17 · Neutral information that names no hospital, doctor or region. No rankings, recommendations or reviews.

Short answer

Dermatology(피부과) is generally the first department to see for melasma, as dermatologists are trained to diagnose pigmentation disorders and assess their underlying causes. In some cases, if hormonal factors are suspected, a referral to Endocrinology(내분비내과) or Obstetrics & Gynecology(산부인과) may be suggested following an initial dermatology evaluation.

Which department

1Dermatology (피부과)
Dermatologists specialize in diagnosing skin pigmentation conditions, including melasma, and can assess factors such as skin type, depth of pigmentation, and potential triggers through clinical and, if needed, instrumental examination. — First / second line: A local dermatology clinic (의원) is generally the appropriate first step for most people with melasma; a referral to a hospital-level or university hospital dermatology department is usually considered only when the case is complex or does not respond to initial evaluation.
2Obstetrics & Gynecology (산부인과)
Melasma is strongly associated with hormonal changes such as those occurring during pregnancy or with the use of hormonal contraceptives, so an OB-GYN may be involved if these factors need evaluation alongside dermatologic care. — First / second line: This department is not typically the first stop for melasma itself, but may be consulted in coordination with a dermatologist when hormonal context — such as pregnancy-related skin changes — is a key part of the clinical picture.
3Endocrinology (내분비내과)
Hormonal imbalances involving the thyroid or adrenal glands can sometimes contribute to diffuse facial pigmentation, and an endocrinologist may be consulted if such systemic causes are suspected after an initial dermatology assessment. — First / second line: A visit to endocrinology is generally initiated through a referral rather than as a first step; it becomes relevant when the dermatologist suspects an underlying hormonal disorder that requires further investigation.

Go to the ER / call 119 if

If any of the following applies, do not choose a department — go to an emergency room or call 119 (Korea's emergency number).

Sudden loss of vision or rapidly spreading facial swelling following any skin application or procedure — go to the emergency room immediately.
Signs of severe allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, throat tightening, or loss of consciousness — call 119 without delay.
Rapidly spreading redness, intense pain, and fever over the facial area suggesting a possible severe skin infection — seek emergency care immediately.
Sudden onset of widespread skin blistering or peeling across multiple body areas — this requires emergency evaluation, not an outpatient dermatology appointment.

Before your visit

Note when the pigmentation first appeared and whether it has changed in size, color, or distribution over time.
Record any hormonal changes or events that coincided with onset — such as pregnancy, starting or stopping contraceptives, or other hormonal therapies.
Bring a list of all medications, supplements, and topical products you currently use, including sunscreens and cosmetics, as some can influence pigmentation.
Think about your sun exposure habits and history, including occupational or recreational UV exposure, as this is a key factor the doctor will ask about.
If you have had any prior skin treatments, procedures, or evaluations for this condition, bring those records or results to the appointment.
Document any family history of similar pigmentation, as melasma can have a genetic component that is useful context for the consulting doctor.

General principles

Melasma is a common form of facial hyperpigmentation that typically appears as symmetrical brownish or grayish patches, most often on the cheeks, forehead, and upper lip. Because it overlaps in appearance with other pigmentation conditions, a dermatologist generally performs a clinical assessment — sometimes using a Wood's lamp or dermoscopy — to help characterize the depth and nature of the pigmentation before discussing any management direction with the patient.

The general care pathway for melasma usually begins at a dermatology clinic (의원), where the dermatologist evaluates contributing factors such as UV exposure, hormonal status, skin type, and prior treatments. If systemic causes such as hormonal disorders are suspected, or if the presentation is atypical, the dermatologist may coordinate with other specialties through a referral.

In the Korean healthcare system, most people with melasma can visit a local dermatology clinic directly without a referral. A referral letter (요양급여의뢰서) is required for insurance coverage when seeking care at a tertiary or university-level hospital (상급종합병원), while secondary hospitals (병원/종합병원) can generally be visited directly with normal insurance coverage, so starting at a clinic-level dermatologist and moving up if needed is a common and practical approach under national health insurance.

FAQ

Should I go to a dermatology clinic (의원) or a hospital-level dermatology department for melasma?

For most people, a local dermatology clinic (의원) is a reasonable and practical starting point for melasma evaluation. Hospital-level or university hospital dermatology departments are generally considered when the condition is complex, atypical, or has not responded after initial assessment — and in those cases, a referral from the clinic is typically the standard pathway.

Could my melasma be confused with another skin condition, and would I need a different department?

Several pigmentation conditions can resemble melasma, including post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, nevus of Ota, or drug-induced pigmentation, which is why a dermatologist's evaluation is important for accurate characterization. If a systemic cause or a different diagnosis is suspected, the dermatologist may suggest additional workup or coordinate with another specialty — but dermatology is generally the appropriate starting point regardless.

What kind of examinations does a dermatologist typically use to evaluate melasma?

A dermatologist usually begins with a clinical skin examination and may use tools such as a Wood's lamp (a UV light device) or dermoscopy to assess pigmentation depth and pattern. These are general assessment tools; any further steps would depend on the individual findings and what the consulting doctor determines is appropriate for your specific situation.

Is the approach to melasma different for pregnant women or older adults?

Pregnancy is a well-recognized trigger for melasma due to hormonal changes, and the dermatologist will take this context into account when discussing any management considerations, often in coordination with an OB-GYN. For older adults, the dermatologist may pay additional attention to distinguishing melasma from other age-related pigmentation patterns, though dermatology remains the standard first department in both groups.

Find a clinic (external directories)

External directories for finding a clinic by region once you know the department (public data, no rankings or recommendations).

This page is general medical information and does not replace diagnosis, treatment or choosing a clinic. Consult a doctor for any symptom. In an emergency, go to the ER or call 119 immediately.