I want to know about this Thermage - is it just RF? What is the most effective treatment for melasma?

Question

Estee Williams, MD · Answer

Sun and heat can worsen melasma, and because Thermage delivers heat to the skin, it carries the risk of aggravating melasma.  Therefore Thermage should not generally be used in a patient who has active melasma.

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Thermage is utilized for tightening the skin and to produce new collagen.  Thermage is not used for Melasma.  Melasma is best treated with Cosmelan and chemical peels.  Please consult a board certified dermatologist with experience with these procedures for the best cosmetic results.  Best, Dr. Green

Baruch Jacobs, MD, FACS · Answer

Thermage is a skin tightening procedure which can tighten loose skin on most areas of the body. It is not recommended to treat melisma.

Martie Gidon, MD, FRCPC, FAAD · Answer

Thermage radio frequency tightens and lifts saggy skin on the face, abdomen, arms and thighs.  It is not a treatment for melasma.  Please consult a cosmetic dermatologist who can assess your melasma and skin type and formulate a treatment plan for you, starting with sun protection.

I want to know about this Thermage - is it just RF? What is the most effective treatment for melasma?

Answers (4)