IPL vs. Fraxel for treatment of melasma

Brian Biesman, MD answers: IPL vs. Fraxel Laser for stubborn sun spots or melasma?

I've tried many treatments for facial sun damage/melasma. My last attempt is either IPL or Fraxel Laser. Since they're both very costly, I'd like your input on what's more effective based on your experience.


Brian Biesman, MD
4 months ago
By Brian Biesman, MD - Nashville Oculoplastic surgeon

Unfortunately melasma is a challenging condition to treat.  It cannot be cured; using a combination of medical and technology-based therapies melasma can be controlled.  Only after medical therapy has been maximized should a technology-based solution be sought.  Fractional resurfacing is probably of greater benefit than IPL when considering technology-based solutions but the 2 treatments have never been compared directly.

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