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

Question

I got a laser pixel erbium treatment done 1.5 years back for acne scars after which i started developing pigmentation on my right cheek. In order to treat that i was put on hydroquinone and has a very low energy IPL done. After the IPL the patch has become very dark and bigger. Am still on hydroquinone since 2 months. Will clear and brilliant help or should i just stay away from lasers and continue on hydroquinone?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

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

Roberta Huang, MD · Answer

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.

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

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

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Everything you need to know about Clear and Brilliant

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.