Should I stop my laser treatments for melasma if the lighter patches haven't disappeared yet?

Respectfully, I wil have to disagree with this statement regarding lasers- the CORRECT laser in the correct setting by a Specialist can improve but not cure melasma. Need to step up to have a session every 14 -16 days, if you can see a laser dermatologist for advice. Melasma is a very common cause of skin pigmentation. It can not be completely cured, however effective treatment are possible. This is because your skin is extremely sensitive to UV and even the smallest amount can stimulate your pigment cells to produce colour. The mainstay of treatment is strict UV protection- hats, sunglasses and SPF every 4 hours. This forms the foundation of all treatments.
I prefer to use a combination of creams and laser for melasma. Hydroquinone can be used (5-8%), along with vitamin A creams or Meladerm. I start my patients on laser (low dose Q switch or Picosure) as this has shown to decrease pigment production. Another laser I use is the Clear and Brilliant in the 1927 Permea setting combined with creams. IPL should never be used to treat mixed melasma as it often worsens the condition (this is termed ‘Rebound Melasma’)

In some cases I combine glycolic AHA peels, and in other cases I use a tablet called Tranexamic acid to help. Melasma treatments should be tailored to each patient.

All the best, Dr Davin Lim. Laser, surgical and aesthetic dermatologist. Brisbane, Australia.

Thank you for your question. According to the recent recommendations of  European Society for Lasers and Energy Based Devices( ESLD ) Melasma shouldn't be treated by lasers as it will give temporary improvement for the patient ..later the Melasma would come back larger and darker. I would recommend for the Melasma to be treated with Chemical peels that contain Hydroquinone or Kojic Acid like Amelan or Cosmelan that will work to inhibit the pathway of melanin synthesis( that results in the pigmentation of the Melasma) and therefore control of the Melasma.