Is Biafine an Effective Treatment for Melasma?

Question

I had an IPL 6 weeks ago for melasma, and got severe burns.  I have hyperpigmentation badly on one cheek from this and am wondering if this will go away, and if so, how long will it take?  My melasma is worse now.  What can I do to fix this?  I am currently using biafine on this, is this what I should be using?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our protocol for melasma treatment is multi-pronged and includes laser therapy, fractional ablation, Covalent peels, and topical creams. I would begin the melarase creams for at least 4 to 6 weeks before initiating any aggressive laser therapy. 
AM: Melaclenz, Melapads, Melarase AMPM; Melaclenz, Melapads, Melarase PMBest, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Promila Banerjee, MD · Answer

Melasma has underlying cause (hormonal stimulus).  It is a skin manifestation of hormones stimulating excess pigment activation at various layers of your skin.  The safest and most effective treatment in U.S. is Halo hybrid fractional laser.  I would caution you against doing further IPLs.  While superficial treatments like peels and microneedling may help remove superficial layer pigments, ultimately, Halo laser helps eliminate deeper and superficial skin layer pigments safely and most effectively.
Typically more than one treatment is needed and some form of yearly maintenance is needed in melasma reduction (elimination may not be possible).  Unfortunately, Biafin will not help eliminate Melasma.  Topical treatments may help the superficial layer pigments but does not help the deeper pigments.
Hope this helps you make the right choice.  Best wishes, Dr B

Is Biafine an Effective Treatment for Melasma?

Answers (2)