Melasma Treatment: Q&A

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Is IPL Laser the Best Melasma Treatment?

Hi, I have very large melasma patches on my cheeks and forehead. A consultant at my local hospital prescribed me with quinone cream, which was very difficult for the pharmacist to get hold of as it is banned in our country (U.K). I have been given advice by a local clinic on IPL laser and wondered if this would be good for me.

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4 Doctor Answers | Asked by Sarah184 in UK

Doctor Answers (4)
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IPL Treatment for Melasma

We believe that IPL (and Fraxel for that matter) treatments are the worst choice for Melasma for the vast majority of those that have it. Melasma can be an epidermal (upper skin), dermal (lower skin) or mixed (dermal and epidermal) condition. We have found that the only results we have achieved for treating Melasma were achieved with Q-switched laser technology and only in cases for epidermal Melasma. But so few patients have just epidermal Melasma that many actually get worse after... more

Harold J. Kaplan, MD

4 reviews

Los Angeles Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.celibre.com

Melasma: Answers to the most common questions

Melasma is characterized by hyperpigmentation on the face that has four main causes: Genetics Sun exposure Hormones Inflammation One of the most effective treatments is a topical combination of prescription hydroquinone and tretinoin. Keep in mind that treatments for melasma are not permanent as the above mentioned causes cannot be entirely eliminated.

IPL and Melasma

IPL is not a good treatment option for melasma. Using a topical hydroquinone cream with tretinoin (Retin-A) may be a better option.

Sam Naficy, MD

84 reviews

Seattle Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.seattleface.com

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Melasma and IPL

IPL treatment can sometimes help melasma although it is tough. Some alternatives include treatment with hydroquinone and retin-A based products. These creams provide a slow treatment that should hsow improvements over a few months.

Steven Wallach, MD

13 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

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These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.

Melasma Treatment: Q&A