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.

3 answers to “Is IPL laser the best melasma treatment?”

A: IPL Treatment for Melasma

Harold J. Kaplan, MD

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... more

A: Melasma and IPL

Steven Wallach, MD

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.

A: Melasma: Answers to the most common questions

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD

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... more

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