Chemical peels are probably the most consistent for good results

Hyperpigmentation of the cheeks is a difficult and frustrating problem.   Several light chem peels such as Jessner's solution or 10-15% TCA do well in most cases.  Plan on 3-6 peels at every 2-4 week intervals @$250-350 each.  IPLs help more than lasers as a rule but both are unpredictable and can cause the dark patchs to worsen more so than chemical peels do.

You will of course need to wear sunscreens and start a bleaching cream after 1 week after each peel.  Do expect the dark spots to return in the future.  They always do but if you use a prescription bleaching cream 1-2 times a week forever then you can slow down the pigmentation from returning as fast.

It is so hard to definitively say whether TCA peels or IPL treatments would work better for you.

Hyperpigmentation is frequently difficult to treat ,and plan on maintaining the result with good medical grade skin care, sun screen use and sun avoidance as much as possible.

I have seen peels and skin care work for pigment as well as IPL.  IPL or Intense Pulsed Light, technically is not laser energy but light based energy. it works well in most patients for brown and red color. It may (just like the peels) take a series of 2-4 treatments.

The best advice i can give you is to find a practicioner that is comfortable and competant with both treatments, have them thoroughly evaluate your skin and make a recommendation based on your skin type.

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