I have melasma (after pregnancy) Wondering if Tri-Luma is a good product to use to treat it? (photo)

Question

I developed melasma after pregnancy and 3 days ago I went for an IPL treatment. After reading how IPL isn't supposed to be used to treat melasma; I am now wondering if Tri-Luma is a better option that will actually treat my melasma? What other name brand creams should I ask about when going to the dermatologist? I also just started (about a month ago) to use Trentinon .1% cream twice a week and seen great results.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our ideal protocol includes light chemical peels, Clear and Brilliant laser, and the Kareskin Brightening Kit with Melarase creams to control melasma. Best, Dr. KaramanoukianLos Angeles

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

There is no "cure" for melasma but there are great treatments. We are doing a clinical trial now on clear + brilliant with bleaching and microneedling and getting amazing results. I suggest you see an expert. You will need lifelong treatment, sun protection, skin care. But these treatments can give you improvement and then you maintain. Best , Dr. Emer.

Hratch Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Sensitive nd dark skin is prone to melasma. Melasma needs long term commitment with skin care and avoidance of skin factors such as sun exposure (Spectrase Sun Block) which has wide UV spectrum and SPF 30+ protection. 
Daily good habits with topicals may well help you chieve your goals with a good skin system like the Brightening Kit from KareSkin (see link). You may want to start with Melarase and Pigmentation Correction Complex. Scler-X from another vendor is for PIH relief (see link). 
Melarase AM is non hydroquinone based. 
Clear + Brilliant laser can be added once you start your pretreatment with topicals. 
Best
H Karamanoukian MD FACS

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

Melasma is best treated with a combination of treatments such as bleaching creams, chemical peels, and Cosmelan.  Please consult an expert.  Best, Dr. Green

Anita Saluja, MD · Answer

Hello,

Triluma is an effective topical cream
when pigment is superficial and, also, when
inflammation is a component of the melasma but cannot be used while
breastfeeding. It is a prescription cream so please
see your dermatologist. Sun protection is extremely important. In
addition to SPF 30 with zinc or titanium
ingredients daily each morning, I
recommend over the counter Heliocare. Heliocare is a supplement taken by mouth
daily that contains antioxidants and provides
additional protection and benefit in melasma.

I have melasma (after pregnancy) Wondering if Tri-Luma is a good product to use to treat it? (photo)

Answers (5)