Can Microdermabrasion Remove Melasma? Doctor Answers, Tips
Melasma Treatment: Q&A
Ask a Question

Can Microdermabrasion Remove Melasma?

I have had 6 Microdermabrasion treatments and do not see a significant improvement. I'm concerned. I may be paying for a service that will not treat Melasma and want to know what treatment will address this?

Tags:
6 Doctor Answers | Asked by Lorrie in Raleigh, NC
+3

I would not recommend Microdermabrasion to remove Melasma

I would not recommend microdermabrasion as an effective treatment for melasma. Melasma is a deep, resistant form of hyperpigmentation. Microdermabrasion exfoliates exfoliates the skin at a superficial level, so it would be unable to reach the damaged skin cells. To correct melasma, it is necessary to reach the dermis of the skin, where the melasma is contained. The best approach for treating melasma is a combination of a prescription topical regimen and chemical peels. The topical... more
+1

Microdermabrasion combined with Melaquin AM and Melaquin PM

Microdermabrasion is an superficial treatment and cannot change or alter the functioning of a hyperstimulated melanocyte. I would recommend melanocyte cellular control with the Melaquin AM and Melaquin PM products.
+1

Microdermabrasion not likely to help melasma

Melasma is a difficult skin condition to treat and often requires many treatments. Bleaching creams, good skin care, sunscreen, IPL treatments, Retin-A are some of the first treatments. It can be very challenging to treat but I have found very good results with most patients by starting with this regimen. Good Luck! Robert F. Gray, MD, FACS

You might also like...

Real Stories

Melanage Peel and Alexandrite Laser for Brown Spots - Houston, TX

I am still not sure how i feel about this, I had it done 4 weeks ago and I have encountered...

Before + After Photos

View 20 Melasma Treatment photos
+1

Microdermabrasion won't work for melasma

Microdermabrasion is a technique which involves cleaning the outer layers of skin from the epidermis. The pigmentation with melasma is much deeper. Your observations are correct: Microdermabrasion won't help much if at all. Melasma is a challenging problem to treat with any topical, IPL, or laser based therapy.
+1

Microdermabrasion is not a treatment for melasma.

Microdermabrasion is helpful for refreshing and exfoliating your skin. We often combine this with a light glycolic peel to enhance your results. I have tried IPL PhotoFacial treatments for melasma with unsatisfying results. You should consult a board-certified dermatologist familliar with melasma treatments to discuss your options. I hope this is helpful for you.
+1

Microdermabrasion for melasma

Microdermabrasion can improve the penetration of topical lightening agents. It is not the best treatment for melasma, in my opinion. Fraxel Duel is a real breakthrough to improve melasma, but remember, sun avoidance and regular use of bleaching agents will be necessary to maintain the benefit.
Doctors will not see your comments on their answers. If you'd like to follow up, please go here to ask another question.

Comments (1)

melasmatreatmentblog 3 Sep 2012
People often forget that the treatment approach is influenced by the depth of the melasma. This is where the Woods Lamp component of the diagnosis comes in handy. If a person knows that their melasma is deep then they can be psychologically prepared to be more persistent and also to reach for a different treatment regimen.

Ask a Question

Welcome Back

Sign in with Facebook

Your information remains private and will not be posted without your permission.

Forgot your password?

Don't have an account? Create one now.

Join RealSelf

Join with Facebook

Your information remains private and will not be posted without your permission.

Please enter a valid email address
 Did you mean ?

By creating an account, you are indicating that you have read and accept the RealSelf Terms of Use.

Already a member? Sign In.

Retrieve your password

Enter your username or email address and we will send you a link to login.

Check your email

Check your email. We've sent you a link to reset your password.

Ok