When I'm done using Tri-luma will my melasma return?

Question

I went to my dermatologist to be treated for melasma and aging skin. I was given a script for tri-luma to use for 8 weeks after which I switch to tretinoin to be used indefinitely. I am 1 month in and my melasma is 90% gone. I am elated however I'm worried about what will happen once done with the triluma. Will my melasma return? How long of a break must I take from the triluma till I start up again? Will the tretinoin help at prevent the melasma from returning and can I alt both continuously?

Anteneh Roba, MD · Answer

Melasma is a chronic skin condition that never goes away completely but it can be controlled. Triluma will definitely help but the problem is exposure to sunlight will trigger the process and cause the melasma to return. You can't use the Triluma indefinitely. It contains a steroid which can damage the skin if used too long. I would focus on using sunscreen every two to three hours when you are out and about and try to avoid the sun as much as possible.   You can use plant based lightening products like kojic acid for a prolonged period of time alternating with and or in conjunction with Vitamin A.

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I would suggest doing a fractional treatment for melasma.  Apply hydroquinone morning and evening two weeks prior to your treatment.  The fractional treatment would help to suppress the discoloration and improve texture of your skin along with shrinking your pores.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Melasma is associated with hyperpigmentation caused by a combination of hormones, sun exposure, inflammation, and deposition of melanin pigment. In our office, we specialize in melasma treatments and start with Melapads, Melarase AM, Melarase PM, and Replenish; followed by pulsed dye laser to eliminate inflammatory erythema and light fractional laser. 
  
Best, 
  
Dr. Karamanoukian
  
Realself100 Surgeon

Gail Nield, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Hello, It is wonderful news that you have responded so quickly to the Triluma treatment. Melasma is a chronic disease so prevention is so important once you discontinue the Triluma in another month.As your dermatologist has already suggested, wear a hat whenever outdoors, and wear a sunscreen daily. I am now recommending sunscreens with at least an SPF of 50 and which also has Infrared protection. A great sunscreen is Skin Medical SPF 50, Total Defense and Repair which can protect you from IR and to some extent, visible ligt that can also trigger melasma. I would also encourage you to use a retinol every evening and Lytera 2.0 2 x per day. Best of luck.

David E. Berman, MD (retired) · Answer

Picosure is the best, state of the art, laser for Melasma and irregular pigmentation with no downtime. you should plan on 3 treatments, each done a month apart.david berman md

When I'm done using Tri-luma will my melasma return?

Answers (6)

Answer: Melasma

Answer: Melasma

Answer: If your melasma returns, you should do Picosure laser treatment

Answer: If your melasma returns, you should do Picosure laser treatment

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When I'm done using Tri-luma will my melasma return?

Answers (6)

Answer: Melasma

Answer: Melasma

Answer: If your melasma returns, you should do Picosure laser treatment

Answer: If your melasma returns, you should do Picosure laser treatment

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Laser Resurfacing

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