Can clear and brilliant treat melasma or should I stay away from lasers and continue on hydroquinone?

In my Los Angeles practice, we have many patients who have melasma and PIH. Clear and Brilliant can be used for pigmentation, but I would prefer to exfoliate with Melapeels first and then use a skin lightener or dark spot corrector alongside the laser. My choice is usually an Arbutin based Melarase PM.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Hello, Dazzling7038. If you are prone to hyperpigmentation and melasma you will have to be careful with all lasers. Clear and Brilliant has a handpiece called the Permea and it is safer for those with skin types prone to hyperpigmentation. Sciton devices are also safer for darker skin types. I would start with a patch test before moving forward with full treatment to see how your body responds. Hydroquinone and retinols are very helpful, please remember to take breaks from your Hydroquinone every 5 months or so. Regular use of your SPF 30 or greater is essential, as well. EVERY day, even if you aren't going outside; I recommend medical grade SPF and one of my favorites is the SkinBetter SPF.