PRP to treat melasma? (Photo)

Question

Hi, I've read that PRP might help with melasma, I was so desperate to find a solution that I had 2 sessions done, the first was done with a syringe and didn't show the slightest improvement and the second was performed with a dermapen and worsened my condition into larger and darker patches ! Here is my question how many sessions are needed to see some improvement, how much time shall I wait between the sessions and honestly has any doctor got positive results with this technique? Thank you

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, Melasma needs a combination approach to get the best improvement and will need a series of treatments. In our practice, we combine Clear + Brilliant, peels, microneedling/PRP, Aerolase, and sometimes Erbium (Cool Laser) to get the best results. See an expert for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Greetings, PRP isn't the first "go to" when it comes to treating Melasma. Please see below.Melasma is a condition which requires multiple steps and treatments to effectively improve the condition consistently over time.  In our office, here are steps which are effective:
-Pico lasers- The best type of laser for improving the condition.  Please note it takes multiple steps to improve melasma safely
-Nd:YAG Nano lasers with toning- Here a laser is used for deeply resistant melasma to break up particles without generating excessive heat
-Melanage peels- A variety of peels can work and melanage is one of the best for melasma
-Skin topicals- A variety of products including use of lighteners (we prefer natural lighteners such as arubtase found in our product Luminoso) as well as sunscreens can help improve the condition
-Lifestyle choices-Avoiding the sun, hormonal changes (we have a hormone expert in Dr. Chughtai in our office) can all impact melasma.
While melasma is common, patients must understand a multi pronged approach is often the best strategy and controlling this condition.
Best, 
Anil Shah MD

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Skin discoloration is a very prevalent problem in women over the age of twenty.  It is also increasingly common in men with increased sun exposure.  
Risk factors include thyroid disease, sun exposure, hormones, pregnancy, family history, PIH, and birth control. Melarase AM and Melarase PM have been extremely effective in reducing pigmentation associated with skin discoloration and hyperstimulation of melanocytes. 
In my practice, patients with hyperpigmentation benefit from twice daily application of the creams. Melarase AM in the morning, followed by Melarase PM in the evening. Melarase AM contains four active sunblocks, so sunscreen is not needed unless your sun exposure is very high or you had a recent procedure/laser. SPF of 30. Melarase PM contains active skin lighteners to even out skin pigmentation. If you are concerned about the development of pigmentation, contact our office to discuss details and to obtain a regimen for Melarase. 
Recommendations:  5-step Daily Brightening Kit has everything you need to improve dark spots, skin discoloration, melasma, and hyperpigmentation caused by sun exposure, hormones, scarring, and the environment. It’s a powerful daily brightening kit that can help bring out your skin’s natural, healthy glow. Ideal for use on the face, neck, and hands. 
Includes: Melaclenz, Melapads, Melarase AM, Melarase PM, Elevase, and Spectrase
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Los Angeles

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

PRP is not mainstream treatment for melasma, as there are other more effective methods with creams, peels and lasers. Micro needling is not a treatment for melasma and can make it worse.

Melasma 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.

I prefer to use a combination of
creams and laser for melasma. Hydroquinone can be used (5-8%), along with
vitamin A creams. I usually start my patients on laser (low dose Q switch or
Picosure) a few weeks after they commence on creams.

In some cases I combine glycolic
AHA peels, and in other cases I use a tablet called Tranexamic acid to help.

More information on available
treatments in the Web Reference below.

All the best,

Dr Davin Lim

Laser, surgical and aesthetic
dermatologist

Brisbane, Australia

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